Why Libraries Should be Used as a Third Space for Teens

A common dilemma for teens in this era is that there’s not a third space to hang out and spend time. The options are primarily school or things that cost money. While there are other options like the park or just walking outside, you can’t really do that in the winter and that brings the question if walking outside every day is really fun for teens. 

I present libraries as an option to solve this problem. I know that lots of people think that libraries would be a really boring hang out spot, but it’s actually not! Not only can you look around at the books, but most libraries host all kinds of events that are completely free. Most people that live in the same area have a library card so it is easy to obtain. For example, the Champaign Public Library hosts a teen lounge almost every week day at 3 o’clock. There is also something called Club Fred that is marketed for teens where you can do crafts and fun activities. These are just a few of the options that the Champaign library alone hosts several nights a week. If more teens used these activities, I think it could be a widespread way to hang out with friends and people from other schools without having to pay money or drive really far. 

One problem that arises from using public libraries is that some people will not have a library card for the library card you want to hang out at. For example, I don’t have a library card right now because I live in the country, so theoretically these options would not be available to me. However, I have recently discovered that you don’t need a library card to go to these events! This makes libraries the perfect place for teens to hang out! 

Start checking your local library for fun events!

-Marina 

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