'Yes' vote to better library's teen space
The Barrington community has worked hard to provide a safe environment where teens want to gather. However, it has been difficult to find a sustainable community site for teens. The Barrington Area Library's referendum on Nov. 4 will allow for the implementation of the comprehensive library improvement plan. One aspect of the library improvement plan includes a dedicated and attractive space for both teens and tweens.
Studies show many teens don't read much beyond textbooks and other materials for classes. Reading for pleasure drops off significantly during the teen years. The Young Adult area at the Library will include more popular fiction and nonfiction, graphic novels, audio books, and magazines that appeal to teens. The area will also offer computers, interactive learning stations and a display monitor to showcase teen-created movies and graphics. All of these features will draw teens to the library. A cafe and expanded popular materials will draw more young adults to the library as well.
The library improvement plan offers much more to middle and high school students who need specialized resources, services and support for many school assignments. Group study booths, reconfigurable lounge chairs wired for media, computers and group study areas will complement the library's homework services to provide a productive collaborative work area for students.
The education of future generations matters to us all. Please vote "yes" to the library's Nov. 4 referendum. It's important that our teens have this wonderful, safe place where they can read, study and socialize.
Denise Rouse, Carolyn Clifford, Sue Padula, Carrie Carr Barrington
Kathleen Gaber
Deer Park