Teens’ use of technology has increased dramatically in recent years. The Pew Internet & American Life project found that 93 percent of teens go online, with many using social networking sites, finding news and information, sharing content they create, and looking for information on health. Teens need to know that they don’t have to navigate the vast Internet alone; the library is a trusted resource for accessing information, and librarians are the experts who can help them develop the skills they need to use electronic resources effectively and efficiently.
Teen Tech Week is a national initiative sponsored by the Young Adult Library Services Association and is aimed at teens, their parents, educators and other concerned adults. The purpose of the initiative is to ensure that teens are competent and ethical users of technologies, especially those technologies that are offered through libraries, such as DVDs, databases, audiobooks, and videogames.
To celebrate Teen Tech Week this March, the Jessamine County Public Library is hosting a couple of different programs aimed at connecting teens with technology. On Tuesday, March 6th, from 5:00 – 6:00 PM, the library will welcome the Best Buy Geek Squad as they bring a variety of the newest electronic devices for teens to sample. Teens in middle and high school, along with parents and other adults, are welcome to come try out cool gadgets like eReaders, tablets, drawing pens, cameras, voice recorders, and more. The Geek Squad will be on hand throughout the program to answer any questions.
On Wednesday, March 7th, from 4:30 – 6:30 PM, JCPL will open the meeting room for a Wii for Teens program. Teens in middle and high school will be able to choose from a variety of Wii video games to play on the library’s two Wii consoles. Snacks and drink will be available throughout the program.
To raise awareness about technology, for library patrons of all ages, we also have a book display within the main library with a selection of titles about computers, programming, and gadgets. Some of the highlighted titles available for checkout are:
Here’s a sneak preview from our May Lunch and Learn, during which we’ll gear up for summer travel with a focus on travel apps for iPhones, iPod Touches, and iPads.
