SOUTHWICK – Lynn Gingris is working hard to bring teens back to the library.
The new Southwick Public Library Young Adult Librarian, Gingris said she is working on new programs she hopes to implement at the end of the month to create excitement about the library.
“Kids love to come to the library as children, but teens often are less interested,” said Gingris, who is currently earning her Masters in Library Science.
The first teen-related program scheduled is the Teen Lounge Nov. 12 from 3-4 p.m. This is a monthly event for students in grades 7-12. Gingris said Teen Lounge is open to all students in those grades, not just Southwick residents. She hopes to have a group of regular participants who will spread the word about what the Southwick Public Library has to offer.
Students can play the Wii or make a craft or just get together and talk. Gingris said it’s a great way to re-introduce teens to the library.
“Teens are just so busy,” she said. “They have jobs and sports and extra-curricular activities and college resumes to work on.”
Gingris said she has always loved libraries. A self-professed “book nerd,” Gingris spends a lot of time reading the latest offerings for young adults.
“I read a lot of everything, but right now I’m reading books geared toward teens,” she said.
Gingris said there are many good options for teens today when it comes to books, including the popular Hunger Games and Divergent series.
“A lot of adult authors are now publishing young adult books,” she said. “There is a large audience.”
Gingris said she is developing the young adult collection and also serves as the reference librarian.
The Southwick Public Library is open Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Wednesday from 1 – 8 p.m., Thursday and Friday, 10 a..m – 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 am – 1 p.m.
