One of the most exciting parts of the soon-to open Picton Branch Library will be an improved space for teens. The public library is a welcoming place for everyone, and we love it when high school students see the library as a place to spend time (without spending money!) after school and on the weekends.

We are planning to increase program offerings for youth with the expanded space. This includes a filmmaking group that will use new camera and lighting equipment to explore the art of creating movies. A laptop for gaming plus virtual reality equipment will make the library a great place to drop by and have fun with friends. A sound room will be equipped with equipment for all to try podcasting, record musical performances and more, with friendly tech help available to assist.

Discover YOUth, a weekly group that welcomes 2SLGBTQ+ youth and their friends and allies will return to meeting at the library after a few years of using spaces in the community.

Thank you to Rosehaven Yarn Shop for hosting us!

The expanded Picton Branch will have quiet meeting rooms which can be booked by anyone, including students who need a quiet place to work with fast WIFI and printing services available. We envision small groups of students using the spaces as a place to work on projects together as well.

We’re also looking forward to launching a new teen advisory board that will give high school age students an opportunity to share their thoughts on services and programs the library should offer. On Friday, May 26 at 3 p.m., teens are invited to join us at the Picton Branch Library to find out more about what’s to come at the library and to find out more about the advisory board.

Meetings qualify as volunteer time for the community service hours required for graduation and it’s a great way to have your say about the library. No experience is required!

The after-school anime and manga club that meets every Tuesday at 3 p.m. at the Picton Branch Library will continue to meet through the rest of the school year. We eat snacks, make crafts, draw and of course, watch anime using our streaming subscription provided to us by Crunchyroll.

UPCOMING EVENT: TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE PICTON BRANCH LIBRARY Thursday, May 4 at 7 p.m. Travel back in time and test your knowledge of the 1940s in a fun and friendly trivia contest hosted by Deb Rankin. Book your free table of 4 by calling (613) 476-5962 and win prizes (and most importantly, bragging rights!)

-Liz Zylstra