The Thorold Public Library is looking for teenagers to help shape its future. That's why they're organizing a monthly Teen Advisory Board.
“We used to run this program prior to the pandemic and we found it to be very valuable,” says library programmer Amber Mitchell, in an interview with ThoroldToday. “We haven’t been able to run it since 2019 so we are very excited to welcome teens back to the library and get started on all that important work that we did previously.”
The Teen Advisory Board meets every last Monday of the month to discuss all kinds of library matters.
“Teens have historically been a bit more of a challenging demographic to reach in most public libraries,” says Mitchell. “The aim of this program is to create a space for teens specifically where they feel welcomed, included, supported, and heard. We want to work alongside teens to understand what their needs are, what their wants are, and how we can better serve them. We want to work collaboratively.”
The first board meeting is happening tonight, and has seen a great response so far. Registration to join the board will stay open as the meetings progress.
“Teens can always join,” Mitchell says. “If you miss the first meeting it’s not a problem, you can come to the second or the third. It is in person right now but it will be safe with COVID safety [protocols] in place. Prior to COVID we also offered snacks so hopefully that will be coming back soon.“
Mitchell says the board can be a really valuable experience for the teens participating.
“I definitely understand that it can be nerve wracking to go to a meeting,” she says. “It’s not necessarily a teen’s idea of fun but not only is the teen advisory board a great opportunity for teens to get involved with the library, it’s also a great opportunity to gain volunteer service hours and meet new friends.“
The Teen Advisory Board is best suited for teens between 13 and 17 years old. The first board meeting will take place at the library at 7 p.m. tonight (May 30). To register, call the library at 905-227-2581.
