October is TeenTober in the nation, an initiative started by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), a division of the American Library Association (ALA), to encourage teens to visit their local libraries to discover what they have to offer.
It’s no secret teens have been an elusive demographic to attract to libraries, and for a number of reasons. Common distractions and deterrents include involvement in sports and extracurricular activities, having a social life, technology, and maybe even just a lack of interest in today’s libraries. I know, how tragic is that? Your Abilene Public Library is here to tell you we will continue to remain committed to providing activities, and a safe space, for teens to be.
First and foremost, we offer a great selection of young adult literature for teens. Not only does this include traditional print books, but also graphic novels, comics, manga, and more. If grabbing a traditional print book isn’t your thing, get a library card and gain access to our Libby and Hoopla Digital collections where you can download and stream a host of titles including eBooks, eAudiobooks, music, movies, TV series, comics, and more.
We also have great programming for teens including our weekly after school Fandom Club sessions, hosted at the Teen Zone in the Main Library, a weekly evening Dungeons & Dragons Club that meets at the Mockingbird Branch, popular movie showings throughout the month, but that's not it. In October, we're hosting a Cosplay Contest in the Mall of Abilene, an escape room challenge based on the movie "Beetlejuice," and even and after hours Halloween Bash.
If you’re a teen, or have one in your household, be sure to visit your Abilene Public Library and take a look at what we can offer you. There’s certainly something for everyone.