Libraries offer tons for teens, including writers club
Listen up, teens! You may think the library doesn’t have anything for you, but I’m here to say that is not true. The Anne Arundel County Public Library is yours to explore — whether you want to learn how to play a ukulele, take a practice SAT test, play a video game, use a 3D printer or hang out in our Club1117 teen space. We can also help you find your next favorite book.
For 11- to 17-year-olds who like to socialize, you need to check out our teen programs. We have something for all interests. The Odenton Library hosts a virtual teen writers club on the second Thursday of the month. Call 410-222-6277 for more information. Do you love anime and manga? Try the virtual anime and manga club which meets on the first and third Tuesdays of the month. Sign up online at aacpl.net/events to get the Zoom information.
Don’t have access to a computer or internet to join our Zoom programs? You can check out a Chromebook kit, which includes a Chromebook and Wi-Fi hotspot that you can use to get online. You can also check out a Wi-Fi hotspot alone to get internet wherever you are or save your cellphone data.
Do you like reading? Obviously, we’ve got you covered. Explore our online collections with Overdrive, the Libby App, and Cloud Library to find digital copies of your favorite books, including manga, best sellers and graphic novels. You can also check out magazines and eAudiobooks — perfect for the school bus commute. Find our digital offerings at aacpl.net/ebooks.
The summer is winding down, which means it’s time to go back to school. The library has lots to offer for homework help and more. With your library card, you can access Brainfuse: HelpNow, which offers free online tutoring from noon to midnight. Our databases also allow you to research different topics for any subject. My favorite is Peterson’s Test and Career Prep. It has a variety of practice tests you can use to prepare for the SATs, ACTs, ASVAB and more! You can find all of these databases and resources at aacpl.net/ homework.
Looking for service learning hours? The library’s Club 1117 Review Crew offers members the opportunity to earn Anne Arundel County Public Schools community service hours by reviewing teen books! To join the crew, submit reviews that follow our guidelines using our online form. If your review is accepted, you will be able to earn one community service hour for every review submitted. Learn more at aacpl.net/club1117/ reviews.
Are a young job hunter or entrepreneur? Don’t worry — we have resources for you, too. Brainfuse: JobNow offers live resume assistance, interview coaching and job coaching from 2 to 11 p.m. Additionally, it includes resume templates, a resume creation tool and more. Try using LinkedIn Learning or Udemy to learn a new skill and build your resume. You can learn more about these resources at aacpl.net/jobs.
Are you a maker? Visit our Odenton or Busch Annapolis libraries to explore their makerspaces. Find 3D printers, sewing machines, button makers and more — along with staff who can help you learn how to use them! If you want to learn a new craft, check out CreativeBug. This new resource has thousands of online classes to teach you things like jewelry, knitting, sewing and art design. It even comes with free templates, sewing patterns and recipes!
Our most priceless resource is our staff. We are here to welcome you into our buildings and help you find whatever it is you might need. Stay connected with the library by following our Teen Instagram page @ aacplteen.