SOUTHWICK – Finding something to do that’s fun, educational and socially distanced when you’re a teenager can be difficult these days, but the Southwick Public Library is offering a few ways to have fun and stay connected to the library.
Young Adult Specialist Heather Paparella said the programs geared toward teens are a mix of educational and fun.
Southwick Public Library Director Lynn Blair and Heather Paparella, young adult specialist. (SOUTHWICK PUBLIC LIBRARY PHOTO)
“We’re trying to offer programs that are beneficial to long-term growth, such as our online babysitting course, financial literacy program and pre-driving class,” Paparella said. “We want to enhance their growth and prepare them for life skills in a safe way.”
The Southwick Public Library’s teen offerings in October are all virtual with the exception of the craft kits. Patrons can stop by and pick up a kit, which include scratch CD art, paper lanterns and no-sew hacky sacks, among others.
Another popular offering is the Book Box. Paparella said patrons sign up for a box, which includes two books selected by library staff as well as “goodies.”
“We choose the books based on their interests and hobbies – it’s a fun surprise for them to open the box and see what we selected. And they get extra treats,” Paparella said.
The Book Boxes are part of the library staff’s efforts to continue relationships with patrons while they have limited access to the library during the coronavirus pandemic.
“We’ve increased our outreach to the community,” she said, “it’s a great way to connect with patrons.
“The takeaway is were trying to serve the population as best we can in these times and offer things that are useful to them and keep them connected to the library.”
October teen programs include:
Online Babysitting Certification Course
Students in 6-12 grade are invited to participate in a Babysitting Course presented by Southwick Public Library in partnership with 4-H UMass. This course is broken into three sessions that meet online on Oct. 7, 21, and 28 from 1-3 p.m.. Sign-up is required, and space is limited. To sign up, call 413-569-1221 ext. 3. After sign-up, we will contact you when course materials are available for pick- up at the library. Upon completing the course students will receive a babysitter ID card and course completion certificate. Sign up by Oct. 5.
Teen Virtual Volunteering for Southwick Public Library
Enjoy books, movies, video games and music albums- stuff you like to do anyway! Then write an honest review for volunteer hours. Number of hours earned vary depending on what type of item you review. Book reviews start at five hours credit. Your review will be posted to our teen blog and you may use a pen name. Five reviews must be completed to receive a volunteer certificate. This session runs October- mid December. Call 413-569-1221 ext. 3 for more information or view Southwick Public Library’s Teen Blog or Facebook Page. Must be in 7-12 grade.
Teen CD Scratch Craft
Pick up a grab and go craft bag at Southwick Public Library from Oct. 12-16 and create your own creepy spider web or fall scene on a CD provided by scratching away paint to reveal an iridescent design.
Teen Pumpkin Carving Contest
Can you carve the most creative pumpkin this Halloween? Southwick Public Library is hosting a contest, and the winner of this will receive a $10 iTunes gift card. All photos submitted will be posted on our Teen Blog. Submit your photo using our Google Form on the teen blog. Must be in 7-12 grade.
