Library looks to youth
Libraries aren’t what they were a few decades ago and some events West Gippsland Libraries have in train next month are ample proof.
The Meet Up 18 Youth Festival at three of the region’s 12 static libraries and targeted at young people in the 12 to 18 years age group will feature things such as make-up application, bicycle maintenance, advice on buying a car, science experiments, programming robots, taking a gap year when finishing secondary school, public speaking and playing video games.
Far removed from the days when people entering a library were greeted with a large sign “Silence Please”.
The youth festival program starting on September 1 will include free launch events at the Warragul, Wonthaggi and Leongatha libraries with snacks, refreshments and various games on hand.
The Warragul and Wonthaggi launches will also have guest speakers talking about the video game industry.
West Gippsland Libraries chief executive officer Leanne Williams said Meet Up 18 would aim to transform what young people think and know about libraries with the hope they become active library users over the rest of their lives.
“Traditionally young people have valued libraries for borrowing books or as places of study”.
In their early 20s and 30s they expand their interests – travel, family, cars, work – but with limited experience with libraries in their teens don’t necessarily see them as a place to help pursue those interests, Ms Williams said.
To find out more about the launch day events or to register visit www.meet up18.com.au