Columbus library adding activities to Teen Space program

COLUMBUS - The Columbus Public Library is not just a place to check out books.

It also offers programs that put on events and social activities.

The Teen Space is one such program for adolescents in grades six through 12.

"Any of our teens can read, do homework, and we try to offer them a wide variety of activities as well," young adult services librarian Jessica Wilkinson said.  "It’s important for teens to know that they can come in and just be themselves and have a safe place to hang out.”

Wilkinson said the program has been around for years, and that every week, around 15-30 kids take part in the Teen Space.

It's hardly an area just for your child to read and study.  Wilkinson said she's starting to add new activities.  Your adolescent can now watch Japanese cartoons at the Anime Club and play video or board games on Team Game Day.

New this year is Crafternoons.

“Some examples of crafts I’m going to have them do is like making glitter jars or making Star Wars perler bead action figures,” Wilkinson said.

She said these are good activities for social growth, helping young adults learn about who they can become and meeting other kids.

“I have a wide variety of students who come from Columbus High, from Scotus, homeschool students," Wilkinson said.  "They weren’t friends before.  "Now, I think they made great friends along the way.”

She said a program like this is more pertinent now than ever during a time when social distancing and lockdowns have impacted teens’ mental health.

“They’re used to talking to their friends, seeing them every day," Wilkinson said.  "But when school shut down in March, they didn’t have that.  So now, with things starting to open up again, I believe it’s really important that the library provides these in-person programs.”

If you would like the full schedule of Teen Space activities, email: [email protected].