Library helps Stevenson students prep for finals

With the school year drawing to a close at Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, students are studying for final exams. Neighboring Vernon Area Public Library is providing space for students to prepare - just as it has every semester since spring 2004. Over a 5-day stretch that begins Saturday, the library arranges meeting rooms and public spaces with extra chairs and tables for studying. The library remains open an extra two hours on Saturday and Sunday just for teens prepping for finals.

The twice-yearly event, called Exam Cram, draws nearly 600 students to the library each time it is held. In addition to offering a variety of group and quiet spaces for study, the library helps keep the students fueled with water, sodas and snacks like pretzels, granola bars and cookies.

Librarian Diane Presta, Exam Cram's coordinator, enjoys seeing teens using the library in such numbers. "It's a great way to reach teens who may be too busy to attend library programs or even to come in and check out materials."

All library desk staff, managers and maintenance staff support the 5-day event, which is one of the busiest - and noisiest times - in the library. Other patrons are advised of the increased activity over the week. "The students may not be asking a lot of questions, but they see that the library is a useful, welcoming place that is not just accepting of them, but happy they are here," said Presta.

Exam Cram takes place 12-7 p.m. Saturday, May 20, and Sunday, May 21; 3-8:30 p.m. Monday, May 22; and 1-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 23, and Wednesday, May 24. For more information, visit http://www.vapld.info or call 224-543-1485.