Prospect Heights Public Library to host New Creative Technology Workshops for Teens and Kids

Something exciting is happening at the Prospect Heights Public Library! A new program, The Studio, begins in March. Held one Sunday a month, The Studio is a creative workshop for kids ages 10 and up. Each workshop focuses on a different craft or technology. The Studio seeks to expose children to art and technology while also sparking mentorships with local teenagers. Each month, Teen Mentors will attend an orientation session preceding the Studio session, to be trained on that month's activity and accompanying equipment. At the Studio session they will work side by side with children in Grades 5-8. At the first session of The Studio, on Sunday, March 13, 1:30 - 3:00 pm, attendees will learn how to make a keychain with their name on it using the Library's 3D printer. The first Studio Volunteer Orientation is Sunday, March 6, 1:15 - 3:15 pm. Registration is required for each event.

The goal of The Studio is twofold. First, to provide a place where kids can learn about new technologies and develop their creativity and critical thinking. Second, to teach teens new skills and empower them to become leaders in their community. Prospect Heights Public Library's new High School Librarian, Kim Naples, is working hard to recruit local high school students that have skills in art, technology, design, crafting, and teaching. "After 3D Printing I want to teach how to use the Silhouette Digital Cutter to design cards and bookmarks. However, my hope is that eventually the teens will be leading these orientation sessions. I want them to decide what we will focus on each month, lead the orientation sessions, and share their skills and interests with their peers and children."

The Head of Youth Services, Sue Seggeling, hopes this new program will build on an existing library program. "We have had great success with High School volunteers in our Study Buddies Homework Center and we are extremely excited to expand it and to have teen volunteers pass on their knowledge in other areas to our community."

Please contact the Teen Librarian, Kim Naples, knaples@phpl.info , with any questions or suggestions.