SUPER SMASH BROTHERS BRAWL

• Tomorrow, Saturday June 26
• Old Worthington Library, meeting room 
• 3pm to 6pm
• To participate in the tournament, you must be signed in by 3:30pm

Have you ever wondered what to do with a computer mouse once it has bitten the dust? Or thought, what can I do with my parents 'old school' floppy disks?! Well here is your chance to create picture frames, bracelets, corsages, and more out of dead or unuseable computer parts and accessories.  All of our project ideas have been taken from the new book, 62 Projects to Make with a Dead Computer by Randy Sarafan.

• Monday, June 21 @ 2:30pm
• Old Worthington Library, meeting room

Tomorrow I will hold the last Volunteen Orientation for the Northwest Library -- 3-4pm.  Be warned that I have VERY few spots left available, but there are still a few.  However, if you really want to volunteer, and have transportation, Jen at Worthington Park could really use you!  Feel free to come and attend the orientation at Northwest, and then head over to Worthington Park to sign up for shifts.  It's a really fun library over there, and you'll get to make all kinds of new friends!

What if you want to volunteer, but can't make it this Saturday?  Have no fear!  Ann P. is holding the last Orientation at Old Worthington on June 16, 3-4pm.

Hope to see you soon -- HAPPY READING!!!

Peace. Love. READ.

The 2010 Summer Reading Program starts tomorrow, Saturday, June 5!  Sign up and get prizes for the reading you're already doing. 

Join us at Northwest and Old Worthington libraries for Sidewalk Chalk Art at 2pm.  Can't wait to see you at the library!

If you love to eat (and cook,) please join us for a new and exciting program:

EAT IT UP! Ultimate Snack Competition

It's time to get cooking! During this program, you will team up to create a "healthy" snack using ideas from cookbooks like Rozanne Gold's Eat Fresh Food, Sam Stern's Real Food, Real Fast and Megan and Jill Carle's Teens Cook.

All ingredients provided, you just need to bring your taste buds and culinary creativiy!

Eat It Up will take place:

• March 18th
• 6pm
• Northwest Library

Judging will be based on creativity, appearance and taste. Registration is required for this teen event. Please call 807-2626 to register today!

If you have any questions, please ask Sarah C.

It is that time of year again! The 8th Annual Worthington Libraries' Teen Poetry and Short Story Competition is almost here. Thursday, March 18, teens in 6th grade to 12th grade or homeschool equivalent, can start submitting their poetry/short story creations. Submissions will be accepted until Thursday, April 8.

Below is the basic information for the competition. Head to your nearest Worthington Library for more rules and guidelines and while there pick up an entry form and a great book of poetry to get some ideas.

• To enter the competition, pick up an entry form and a complete set of rules at any Worthington Libraries location. You may submit up to three poems and/or two short stories.
• A panel of six judges will review all submissions and select a total of six winners, three middle school and three high school.
• Contest winners can present their work at an Open Mic Night for Teens on April 29 at 7 pm at Old Worthington Library.

If you need some inspiration, the Old Worthington Library will be hosting a 'Write Stuff' workshop. We will be focusing on POETRY! Registration is recommended but not required. The Write Stuff program will be held on Saturday, March 13 at 2pm in the Old Worthington LIbrary meeting room.

The Write Stuff: Memoir

How do you want your accomplishments, challenges, loves and losses to be remembered? Get guidance on writing your personal story during this session.

• Old Worthington Library, meeting room
• Saturday, February 20
• 2pm

Get your Game On this Saturday February 13, 2010!  Ages 10-18 are invited for an afternoon of action-packed fun during a Super Smash Brothers tournament!

• Saturday, February 13, 2010
• Northwest Library, Meeting Room
• 3:00-6:00 PM
  NOTE: If want to participate in the tournament you need to be signed in by 3:15pm.
• The tournament starts at 3:30pm.
• Anyone 10-18
• It will be a Wii tournament, bring your controllers if you'd like.

This will be one of my last programs as the Teen Librarian at Northwest, so stop by and wish me luck on my new adventures!

Northwest Library is offering a Babysitting 101 course! First timers and seasoned sitters will benefit from this informative program. Colleen Caruso, an educator from the Elizabeth Blackwell Centerr, will share ways to make bed time, snacks, baths and play fun and easy! What a great way to "boost" your babysitting resume!

The class will be held on Saturday February 6th from 11 a.m. - 12:30 in the TEEN ROOM at Northwest Library.

If you have any questions, please call Ann Badger at 807-2626

 TheWriteStuff: Fan Fiction 

GET YOUR GAME ON!

On Saturday January 9, Old Worthington Library will host:

Mario Kart

• 3pm to 6pm

• Meeting room

• 10 to 18 year olds welcome

• Vending machine located in lobby

Well Ann and I finally made it back from Ireland, no thanks to the huge storm that hit Philly on saturday. When I got back to the library on Monday I counted all the earnings from the Teen Read-A-Thon we held to raise money to buy holiday presents for the United Methodist Children's Home. I so happy to report that the 10 teens who participated raised a grand total of $450.00! YAY! Way to go!

Thanks to everyone that particpated!

Card Care 2009

If you are creative or just like helping people, the Library needs you! Brighten the holidays for others during this annual event and decorate holiday cards for the library's homebound patrons, some of whom are so grateful the Library often recieves thank-you notes from them. Since 2001 we have created over 300 cards for our patrons. All materials are provided.                    

• Old Worthington Library, meeting room
• Wednesday, December 2
• 6:30 pm

Get your books ready, it's time for

NORTHWEST LIBRARY'S TEEN READ-A-THON

DECEMBER 5th, 2009

On December 5th, Northwest Library will be hosting a Teen Read-A-Thon to earn money to buy holiday presents for the youth at the United Methodist Children's Home.  Last year we raised just over $600 and hope to raise even more this year.

Readers in 7^th through 12th grade are encouraged to participate in Northwest Library's Teen Read-a-Thon on Saturday, December 5 from 10am to 6pm. During the Read-A-Thon, participants should try to read as much as they can. You can read anything you want. You can read your favorite books to yourself or to one another. We invite you to stay for the whole day or just part of the day, whatever suits your schedule.

How It Works:
Readers should find their own sponsors. Ask family, friends, neighbors, businesses to make pledges towards the total pages you read (for example, someone could pledge 10 cents for every page you read, and if you read 300 pages, you will raise $30.00 for the United Methodist Children's Home!). Participants can pick up a pledge form at Northwest Library.

Who It Benefits:
The youth at the United Methodist Children's Home.

Goal: $800
Last year we raised $600 for the United Methodist Children's Home. Let's raise more this year!

Board game domination is sweeping the nation!

The goal of this first-time event is to get as many people as possible throughout the U.S. to play board games.

Play and be counted!

Stop in with some friends for a few rounds of your favorite games at any Worthington Libraries location

• Date: Saturday, November 14
• Time: Noon to 4pm
• Where: Teen area at all three libraries

     I look forward to Worthington Market Day every year and I am once again geared up for this year's festivities. Crafts, food, bands, library booksale and much more takes place within a three block radius in downtown Worthington. Market Day has been in existence for over 150 years and it is a highlight of fall. I have bought pottery, purses, necklaces, vegetables, and even yummy kettle corn over the past 8 years.

Are you planning on checking out the Worthington Market Day? If so stop by the Friends Foundation of the Worthington Libraries booth to say hi to your librarians and get a coupon for the booksale happening at the Old Worthington Library. (Your teen librarians, Ann and Sarah, will be at the booth from 2pm to 3pm).

September 19th from 9am to 4:30pm downtown Worthington.

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There are two more events in the ReUse. ReCreate. ReRead series. Ann wrote about the origami boxes Old Worthington will be making tomorrow, July 21.  Head over to Old Worthington library's teen room to make origami boxes from 2:30pm - 4:00pm.

Northwest Library also has one more event in this series. On Monday July 27, Northwest Library Teens  will recreate with coffe bags and glass bottles! from 3-5pm in the Northwest Library meeting room we will be making vases (see book cover on right) out of bottles and purses out of coffee bags!We have LOTS of activities planned. Don't miss these awesome events where we will turn trash into treasure!

Please join us for these fun "green" events! We've had a great time making paper bowls, tote bags, wallets and more. Don't miss the last two events!

Tuesday is the last day for Old Worthington Library's ReUse, ReCreate, ReRead program series. Last chance to turn scraps into art.

Origami Boxes, beautiful origami boxes, that is what we will be making on July 21 at 2:30pm in the teen room. One of my coworkers, Ms. Burkholder,  who creates beautiful boxes out of wrapping paper, advertisements and more will be leading the program. I have yet to try to master the art of origami so we will be learning a new skill together.

Here are a few examples of the boxes we will be making. The two books we will be using is Origami Boxes by Tomoko Fuse and Origami Boxes for Gifts, Treasures & Trifles by Alexandra Dirk

We have an exciting opportunity  for teens who like acting and singing and, in general, hamming it up!

The Northwest Library Teen Readers’ Theatre Troupe will perform C.L.U.E., Crazy, Laugh-out-Loud, Unique Entertainment. During this program, teens will perform favorite songs and stories for younger children. 

But first, we need committed, charismatic, fun-loving teenagers to turn kids’ books into scripts for the show. 

To be in the final performance of C.L.U.E., teens must attend 4 of 5 practices. Teens don’t have to have any stage experience to be a part of the Readers’ Theatre Troupe. A love of silliness, books and fun is all that’s required!

Go green during this eco-friendly teen series. We will reuse found objects to recreate something fun and useful. Teens can also swap books with other participants for the ultimate recycling experience. We have LOTS of activities planned. Don't miss these awesome events where we will turn trash into treasure! We will be using some of the crafts from Eco Craft by Susan Wasinger.

June 29, Northwest Library Teens will recreate with paper. We will be making paper bowls out of recycled yellow pages and office paper. Join us at the Northwest Library from 3-5pm!

June 30, Old Worthington Teens will recreate with paper. Join us at the Old Worthington Library from 2:30pm - 4:00pm

July 7, Old Worthington Teens will recreate with fabric— bring old t-shirt. Join us at the Old Worthington Library from 2:30pm - 4:00pm

July 9, Worthington Park Library Teens will be getting creative in the teen nook. Join us at Worthington Park Library from 2:30pm - 4:00pm

July 13, Northwest Library Teens  will recreate with fabric— bring an old t-shirt. We will be turning our t-shirts into tote bags! Join us at the Northwest Library from 3-5pm! Space is limited to 15! Please call 807-2626 to register.

July 21, Old Worthington Teens will be getting creative in the teen room. Join us at the Old Worthington Library from 2:30pm - 4:00pm

July 27, Northwest Library Teens  will recreate with trash: ie: coffe bags and glass bottles! Join us at the Northwest Library from 3-5pm!

Please join us for these fun "green" events!

We had a great time on Saturday morning creating chalk masterpieces based on the "Get Your Green On" summer reading program theme. It was a beautiful, sunny morning and the teens had fun. Thanks everyone for making it a wonderful morning.

The art of the teens ranged from Clifford, Cat in the Hat, penguins, girls reading outdoors, and a salute to summer 09

Click on the Photos link above and go to 2009 SRP. All the photos will available to view.

Go green while being fashionable this summer!

Teens, are you ready to walk the runway in Worthington Libraries' version of the hit TV show, Project Runway? Our version includes teens signing up in teams (model and designer) and making fashion designs out of normal (or crazy) household items like clothing, aluminum foil, candy, garbage bags, shower curtains, and more. Are you in or are you out?

TGIF: Project Goodwill

June 26, 6pm-9pm, Northwest Library

Enjoy some pics from the 2007 TGIF Project Goodwill...

Planning on cleaning out your closets? Bring your unwanted clothing to the event. We will use them before donating to Goodwill! Have fun and take care of the environment at the same time!

As always, TGIFs are after hours events for teens. We close the library at 6pm and open it back up just for middle and high school students! We will have lots of fun! Registration is required for Project Goodwill.  Call 807-2626.

Well, the first ReUse, ReCreate, ReRead Teen Event happened on Thursday June 11th at Worthington Park Library. All three library locations will be hosting these crafting events, so be sure to check out the event calendar to find out which ones are coming up, and where!

Teens showed up at Worthington Park to create crafts out of recycled materials. For this session we made wallets and mini-journals out of cardboard boxes...mainly food boxes like cereal, brownies, etc. The wallets and journals turned out pretty neat- but the pictures of the snack foods made me hungry!

Here are some of the finished products:

Pretty Cool, right? I really liked the Snapple one that says "Made from the Best Stuff on Earth" right on the front. 

If you have extra boxes laying around at home, there are only a few extra things you need to make these wallets:

• A thumbtack
• Elastic cord
• Scissors

I found the instructions on this cool website, Replayground. Check it out and make some on your own! Hope you'll come out and create some cool crafts out of recyclable products this summer and Get Your Green On!

In keeping with our green theme this summer, and in the spirit of finding other uses for everyday items, we are having a DUCT TAPE program at the Northwest Library this Saturday.  Duct tape can (allegedly) hold together broken parts of your car and cure plantars warts, but did you know you can also make clothing and accessories out of it?

Duck brand Duct Tape even has a scholarship competition for couples who create their prom outfits out of duct tape.  The winners receive $3,000 EACH!

We won’t be quite that ambitious with this program.  But if you have always wanted a tiara, a tie, a belt, or flip-flops made out of duct tape, stop by the Northwest Library Saturday afternoon.  We have two different books with instructions on a variety of duct tape projects, as well as an assortment of colors.  Graduating high school seniors – I recommend the flip-flops.  You’ll need them for your dorm shower!

PROJECT DUCT TAPE

Northwest Library Teen Room

Saturday, June 13 from 2-4pm

P.S. Feel free to bring your own duct tape if you want to be sure to have your favorite color!

See you Saturday!

SUPER SMASH BROTHERS! 

• Friday, May 8, 6pm to 9pm
• Old Worthington Library
• Teens 12-18 only
• Snacks provided
• To participate in the tournament teens to need to be registered by 6:30pm

Get your crochet hooks ready because it's time to make some Amigurumi!

I've been practicing all month. So far I've made two bunnies from Amigrumi World by Ana Puala Rimoli and am working on a Ninja from Creepy Cute Crochet by Christen Haden!

My next project is going to be of the Humanoids featured in Amigurumi: Super happy Crochet Cute by Elisabeth A. Doherty.

Amigurumi is the Japanese Art of crocheting seriously cute animals, toys or dolls. Come out to the Northwest Library on Saturday April 25 from 3-5 and we will make some Amigurumi of our own! We will be using patterns from Amigurumi World by Ana Paula Rimola.

Don't know how to crochet? Don't worry, we will teach you! Just bring a size F/5 (4 mm) or E/4 (3.5 mm) crochet hook. We have lots of yarn!

Make it and take it Amigurumi

Saturday, April 25, 3-5pm

Northwest Library

Get your passport ready, we're headed to Egypt.  

Play the ancient game of Senet, try your hand in deciphering hieroglyphics and endulge in the foods of the pharaohs.

• Saturday, April 18 3pm

T.G.I.F. After-Hours event for TEENS ONLY at the Library!

Come join us tonight for Chocolate Chaos at Worthington Park Library! 

Where: Worthington Park Library

When: Friday March 13th, 6pm to 8:45pm

We'll be making fondue, playing chocolate trivia and more!

Games and prizes! Bring your sweet tooth!

TEEN CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP: 

March 14, 2009 2-4pm

Northwest Library Teen Room

 Do you like to write? Do you want to get your short stories and/or poetry ready for the upcoming 

     
 The Northwest Library is hosting a teen writing workshop on Saturday, March 14 at 2pm. Local authors and writers will be on hand to help you find your voice as a writer though writing prompts and craft lessons. Feel free to bring a piece of work you want to improve upon, or come ready to create something totally new!

You will also have the opportunity to submit your work for publication.

If your piece is accepted, you will receive a free copy of the journal as well as have the opportunity to read your work on stage at the Columbus Arts Festival in June!

Call the Northwest Library at 614-807-2626 with questions and to guarantee a spotin the workshop. 

Walk-ins are welcome, but attendance will be limited to 20 people.

    SAVVY TRAVELERS: BRAZIL                          

February 20th to February 24th Brazil will be holding their Carnival and to celebrate the Old Worthington Library will be "traveling" to Brazil to explore the culture. Teens 12-18 will try Brazilian food, learn to samba and get quizzed on the culture of this great country. Got a few links for you to check out before the program to get a quick lesson on the culture for the trivia.

1. Brazil Government
2. Brazil Travel

The motto as always for the Savvy Travelers: TRY EVERYTHING AT LEAST ONCE!

• Old Worthington Library, teen room
• Saturday, February 21
• 3pm to 6pm
• Samba lessons from 4pm to 5pm
• Trivia from 5pm to 6pm

Tired of all the pink and red, mushy-gushy hearts and doilies? ME TOO! So to celebrate Valentine's Day this year, we're doing the OPPOSITE by having ANTI-Valentine's Day parties at Northwest and Worthington Park Libraries!

Worthington Park's ANTI-Valentine's Party is TODAY, Saturday February 7th from 3pm to 6pm in the Teen/Homework Help Center Areas. We'll be making "gock puppets" (goth sock puppets) decorating Anti-Valentine's day cookies,  playing games and more! Come on by!

Northwest Library's ANTI-Valentine's Party is Saturday February 14th from 2pm to 5pm in the Teen Area. Come on by for cranky crafts, moody music and spiteful snacks!!

      TGIF: Madden 09

Are you ready for some football? Superbowl XLIII kicks off Sunday, February 1st with the battle of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Arizona Cardinals. In honor of the Superbowl, Old Worthington Library is hosting a Madden 09 tournament for teens 12-18. ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL

• Friday, January 30th
• Old Worthington Library
• 6pm to 9pm (after the library closes)
• Teens 12-18 only
• Snacks will be provided

Drop-In Study Break @ Northwest Library

Tired from studying from finals? Come to Northwest Library’s Teen area, play a game or two and let your brain unwind! If you have a special board or card game that you want to share, bring it in!

·         Thursday, January 15

·         6-9pm (come whenever you like!)

·         Snacks are provided

•  On December 11, stop by the Northwest Library between 5pm and 8pm and make fun gift card holders out of old CD cases, or turn old containers into gift boxes, or even bring your own gifts to wrap.  We’ll be using TONS of leftover craft supplies, so the sky is the limit!  
• Then, on December 17^th, Worthington Park Library will be hosting a Holiday DIY event starting at 6pm.  We’ll be working with paper again- but if you have anything you’d like to bring to “spruce up” with our crafts (or maybe some more Mod Podge) bring it along! We’ll also have snacks!

Mark your calendars and hope to see you there!

It's not too late!!!!!!

To start getting pledges and sponsors for this Saturday's Read-a-Thon. We have more details on what activities will be going on!

Specifically:

• Margaret Peterson Haddix, author of the Among the Hidden series and also her newest release Palace of Mirrors will be at Northwest Library at 9:30am to kick off the event!
• Lisa Klein, author of Ophelia and her newest book:  Two Girls of Gettysburg will be at Worthington Park Library at 9:30am to kick off the event!
• All three locations will have supplies to create holiday cards for CardCare- which gives cards to our home-bound library patrons
• WE WILL HAVE SNACKS!

We'll be playing games (with PRIZES!), doing activities (crafts!)  and raffling off other cool PRIZES as the day goes on! The Read-a-Thon is happening at EACH WORTHINGTON LIBRARY LOCATION! Pick your favorite!

And let's not forget that this is helping out a really great cause: the youth at the United Methodist Children's Home!

Also, this Saturday from 10am-2pm is the Community Celebration, where all are welcome to come and tour the buildings and see all the new improvements made at each location. The Mayor of Worthington (Harvey Minton) declared December 6th Worthington Libraries Day for recognition of a great year at the libraries.

So let other people know about the cool happenings at the library this Saturday. AND Start collecting your pledges and come to the Teen Read-a-Thon!

WORTHINGTON LIBRARIES TEEN READ-A-THON

DECEMBER 6th, 2008

On December 6th, Worthington Libraries will be hosting a Teen Read-A-Thon to earn money to buy holiday presents for the youth at the United Methodist Children's Home.  Last year we raised just over $900 and hope to raise even more this year.

Readers in 7^th through 12th grade are encouraged to participate in Worthington Libraries Teen Read-a-Thon on Saturday, December 6 from 9am to 6pm. Come to the library branch you prefer! We'll be hosting Read-A-Thons at all three Worthington Libraries locations: Northwest, Old Worthington and Worthington park.

During the Read-A-Thon, participants should try to read as much as they can. You can read anything you want. You can read your favorite books to yourself or to one another. We invite you to stay for the whole day or just part of the day, whatever suits your schedule.

How It Works:
Readers should find their own sponsors. Ask family, friends, neighbors, businesses to make pledges towards the total pages you read (for example, someone could pledge 10 cents for every page you read, and if you read 300 pages, you will raise $30.00 for the United Methodist Children's Home!). Participants can pick up a pledge form at any Worthington Libraries location.

Who It Benefits:
The youth at the United Methodist Children's Home.

Goal: $1000
Last year we raised $900 for the United Methodist Children's Home. Let's raise more this year!

   TGIF: Super Smash Brothers Brawl

Are you ready for Kirby, Luigi, Mario, Diddy Kong, Jigglypuff, Yoshi, Zelda. Along with SSMB you can dance to DDR!

• Friday, November 7th
• 6pm to 9pm (after the library is closed)
• Teens 12-18 only
• To participate in tournament you need to be signed in by 6:30
• Snacks are provided

Everyone's filling out their ballots at Worthington Park. I can't wait to see who wins the Teen Rock the Vote Library Presidential election! I'm almost running out of ballots at Worthington Park! In addition to the election being just a few weeks away....so is November, which is...National Novel Writing Month!

So I think I've always known that November is National Novel Writing Month—but for some reason (probably because I found this Web site: http://www.nanowrimo.org) this year, it's sticking with me.

First off, I've always wanted to write a book. It doesn't HAVE to be a novel. It could be a collection of essays or even a joke book or a picture book for kids. I don't care which kind, I've just always wanted to write one. That being said, my main excuse has always been I don't have TIME to write a book. I know I know, poor excuse.

And it makes me wonder: why did they pick NOVEMBER for National Novel Writing month?! I mean honestly: November is always so busy with Thanksgiving, and getting ready for Christmas (?!).... how is a person supposed to write a novel?! In a month?!

At any rate, I'm thinking about giving it a shot. Maybe not writing a WHOLE novel, but definitely getting back on the writing bandwagon I was on when I went to college. Would anyone else be interested in doing some writing workshops at Worthington Park Library after school? Maybe this winter?

I might need some Teen help to get my creative juices flowing! Post a comment if this is something you'd like to attend this winter, and I'll see what I can do.

Also, if you're in Worthington Park Library, check out the new Letters on top of the bookshelves that spell out T-E-E-N. We started painting and decorating them last night and I think they look really neat! We still have more work to do on them, so if you're interested (and can track me down while you're at the library) let me know if you'd like to contribute to the 'communal art project' that is the T-E-E-N Sign at Worthington Park. I'll get the supplies out for you and create a workspace. The more teens who contribute, the cooler the end result will be!

I'll be sure to post some more pictures of the sign asap. Thanks!

This Friday, October 24th, Northwest Library will be hosting TGIF: Hats Off to Broadway! A totally Broadway-inspired theme event!

The event starts at 6pm when the library usually closes for regular folk — and opens back up just for YOU! We will have Broadway trivia, a Broadway style "Name that Tune" and finish the evening off with a performance of Little Library of Horrors (adapted from the musical Little Shop of Horrors by my librarian friend Robb Mackenzie).

What: TGIF: Hats Off to Broadway

Where: Northwest Library

When: October 24th from 6-9pm

It will be LOTS of fun. I hope you can make it (bring a friend); and of course we will have snacks.

Well, Teen Read Week was a blast — and we had lots of fun, food and activities all week at the Worthington Libraries. I've posted some pictures from Worthington Park in the Fall 2008 picture section. Now, with Teen Read Week over, it's time to move on to other fun events at the library!

Northwest and Worthington Park's children's sections of the library have been given their final "facelift" for the last steps of the Worthington Libraries' system-wide renovation. I put up some more pictures of Worthington Park. I think it looks great! It's much more colorful and the little kids who come into the library love seeing all of the characters on the walls and the carousel in the corner. I can't wait to see Old Worthington's finished product!

Because the Children's area looks so fancy, I decided that the Teen Area at Worthington Park needs some tweaking, too, as far as decorations go. So, this Wednesday at Worthington Park's Drop In DIY night (from 5-8pm) we'll be decorating huge letters that spell out the word TEEN, to place on top of the shelving in the Teen Area. In addition to being a cool way to let people know where the teen books are, it's an opportunity for you teens to showcase your artistic talents and put them on display at the library. I can't wait to post pictures once they're finished!

Speaking of DIY crafts, I've finally decided what I'm going to be for Halloween—and it's a DIY project! I have been attempting to sew and craft it together in my spare time. Here's where I got my inspiration. I'm not sure which character I'm going to be yet; but I have some options with three different colored suits. Haha! Is anyone else dressing up this year? Making your own costumes? I'd love to see them or hear about your ideas!

We've also started the Rock the Vote Campaign for Teens at all three branches.

Go to the teen area and vote for YOUR choice for President!

Also, if you'd like to make a suggestion for programs and projects to do at the library, you can include that on the back of your ballot! If you don't see a ballot box or ballots laying around, ask a Librarian and they'll track some down for you. We've also go information on the candidates available at all three locations, so take a gander and vote on the candidate that you like best!

We'll be posting more info about upcoming events, so keep coming back to the blog; or chat up your branch's Teen Librarian to hear about the fun stuff that's planned!!!

• We're making candy sushi you can BITE into (It just LOOKS like sushi, but is made out of candy!)
• We're watching scary BITING movies (Old-timey flicks on in the teen area!)
• We're playing Wii BITING games
• Making sweet BITING goth puppets (okay it might be tough to make them bite, but they'll look cool – Ha!)
• And playing BITING Pacman tournaments at the library.

When: Monday, September 8th, 2008
Time: 7:00 pm
Where: Northwest Library, outdoor area (in back of the library)

• Wednesday, September 24th from 5pm-8pm
• Wednesday, October 22nd from 5pm-8pm
• Wednesday, November 19th from 5pm-8pm

Breaking Dawn comes out tonight at midnight!!

• Drive Like a Cullen (using RC cars)
• Twilight Jeopardy
• Emmit's Arm Wrestling contest
• Bella's Grace Competition
• Twilight Monopoly
• Cullen Body Glitter
• And much more!!!

When: Monday, September 8th, 2008
Time: 7:00 pm
Where: Northwest Library, outdoor area (in back of the library)

Just Read It! The Teen Summer Reading Program ends August 2, 2008! That is next weekend, so hurry in to get your card carriers and backpacks! Remember to turn your reading record and overtime sheets into the summer reading program registation desk BY AUGUST 2nd to be eligible to win the Nintendo Wii!

The teen rooms at both Old Worthington and Northwest Library are now officially open! Stop by the library and check out your new rooms! I am soooooooo excited about the new teen areas. I think they look awesome and I hope you enjoy hanging out in them. Please let us know what you think. What do you think of the furniture and the colors? and at Northwest, how cool is that garage door!!

Save the Date for the Breaking Dawn Release Party on August 2nd at 6pm at the Northwest Library! We will be celebrating the 4th book in the Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer. I have buttons, stickers, books, shirts and a bag to give away! We will be hosting lots of fun activities like Twilight Jeopardy, Drive Like a Cullen Contest and more. Remember to decorate a t-shirt before the event so you can enter our Twilight t-shirt contest.

This Thursday, July 24th, the Body Check series will be getting sporty with Wii Sports. The event starts at 4pm and we will meet in the teen area! This will be the first program in the Northwest Teen are! YAHOO!! If you can't make it to Northwest, challenge Ann P. to a game of Wii Tennis at Old Worthington Library during Just Wii on Thursday, July 24th at 7pm. Beware, Ann is VERY competitive!

     MYSTERY PARTY at the LIBRARY

The body of music librarian Melinda Carey was discovered in the meeting room of the local library, with no immediate cause of death evident.  Were natural causes to blame, or did she meet a more sinister demise?

We have the suspects, the detective, the victim and now we need you! Are you ready to investigate the crime? If so, head to the Old Worthington Library on Friday July 18th for the teen mystery night program.

• Old Worthington Library
• Friday, July 18th
• 6pm to 9pm (after the library is closed)
• Snacks will be provided
• Teens 12-18

 If anyone is interested in a henna design or to see me get my eyebrows done the traditional way called threading you need to head to the Old Worthington library @3pm. We have fun desserts to try and did I mention HENNA!

• Old Worthington Library
• 3pm
• Children's bookingham forest
• teens 12-18

The Savvy Travelers is heading to the beautiful country of India! It is the first of many travels we will be taking over the year. What does this mean? Well glad you asked. The Savvy Travelers is a teen program at Old Worthington Library where teens will "travel" to different spots around the globe every quarter. India is our first stop. We will be getting henna (mehndi) , watching a video on India, and eating snacks.

The motto that the Savvy Travelers lives by,  "Try Everything at Least Once"

• Saturday, July 12th
• 3pm
• Old Worthington Library, children's department
• snacks provided           
• teen 12-18

This Thursday, July 10, we will be learning all about Yoga from the instructors at Harmony House. The event will begin at 4pm at Northwest Library and will be held in the Storygarden inside the childrens area.

Yoga has tons of benefits. It can improve flexibility, strength, balance, and stamina. In addition to the physical benefits, many people who practice yoga say that it reduces anxiety and stress and improves mental clarity.To learn more about yoga, check out this informative article by the Nemours Foundation.

This is our third event in the Body Check series. Last time we learned Tae Kwon Do from Master Laura Clements. Everyone who participated got to break blocks with their hands and Master Laura broke three blocks by kicking them. It was AWESOME! If you are interested in learning Yoga this week, please call 807-2626 or email scofer@worthingtonlibraries.org to register today. Space is limited to 20 because of the size of the room and I have just a few more spots.

Save the date! Northwest Library is hosting a Breaking Dawn Release Party on August 2, 2008.

• Drive Like a Cullen (using RC cars)
• Twilight Jeopardy
• Emmit's Arm Wrestling contest
• Bella's Grace Competition
• Twilight Monopoly
• Cullen Body Glitter
• And much more!!!

Next Thursday June 19th is the kickoff event for the Body Check series. Laylia will  teach us the ancient art of Belly Dancing! Belly Dancing is becoming wildly popular and showing up all over the place...in gyms, in MTV videos and more. It is becoming a fun way to get in shape. 

 According to this article, belly dancing can actually  burn 300 calories per hour depending on the intensity of the workout... so what are you waiting for? SIGN UP TODAY!!! Call 807-2626 or email scofer@worthingtonlibraries.org

Watch this video of Laylia dancing with a sword on her head, the sword never moves!

 Need more information? Check out these articles:

 Health Benefits of Belly Dancing

Get Fit Belly Dancing article from CBS News

 P.S. You WILL NOT be required to show your bellies , just come and have some fun. I really want alot of people at the event to show support of these types of programs. The more people who come, the more likely we will be able to more programs like this in the future...so even if belly dancing isn't your favorite thing to do, I would appreciate the support by you giving it a try!

Jeff Smith Exhibit @ the Wexner Center

Celebrate National Library Week by trying to stump your local librarian! Perhaps you've been perplexed over how high a jack rabbit can hop or what fast food burgers are really made of...now is your chance!

You've got questions and we've (hopefully) got answers! This is your chance to test our mad reference skills. Stop by the Northwest Library Information Desk or the Old Worthington Information Desk anytime between April 13 - 19 to Stump A Librarian!

How it works:

• Anytime April 13-19, ask a question, any question
• Librarians have 5 minutes to answer your question, or we are stumped (DOH!)
• If you succesfully stump a librarian, you will be entered in a drawing to win a Creative Zen MP3 player. (Yes, stump the librarian and get a prize for it!)

Of course, there are a few rules: It must be possible to find the answer to your question in the library's print or electronic resources or on the internet. You must ask your question in person—no questions permited via e-mail, over the telephone or through HomeworkNow. And you can try to stump the librarian up to two times per day.

We had a fabulous tournout  for our first ever Teen Read-A-Thon! the goal was to raise money for the United Methodist Children's Home. Twenty-five teens participated and all but 5 teens did the long haul from 9am-6pm. Margaret Peterson Haddix spoke at 9:30 and several teens brought books for her to sign. Lisa Klein spoke at 1pm and she created some new fans!!  Then at 4:00 we started Reading Olympics. Everyone had a blast hula hooping, doing the limbo playing twister while reading. I will have pictures soon. But the most important thing to report is that YOU have raised $515.00 so far and money is still coming in!

Thanks for making this season alot brighter for others.

On December 1st, the Northwest Library will be hosting a Read-A-Thon to earn money to buy holiday presents for the youth at the United Methodist Children's Home. Last year, we held a Holiday Bazaar where we sold baked goods, crafts and gently used items. We raised just over $600 and hope to raise even more this year. Because of the renovation, we don't have the space to hold the Bazaar, so we came up with the idea of the Read-A-Thon!

The Read-A-Thon will feature celebrity readers: Margaret Peterson Haddix and Lisa Klein!! See the schedule of events below.

Readers in 7^th through 12th grade are encouraged to participate in Northwest Library's Teen Read-a-Thon on Saturday, December 1 from 9am to 6pm. During these 9 hours, participants should try to read as much as they can. You can read anything you want. You can read your favorite books to yourself or to one another. We invite you to stay for the whole day or just part of the day, whatever suits your schedule.

How It Works:
Readers should find their own sponsors. Ask family, friends, neighbors, businesses to make pledges towards the total pages you read (for example, someone could pledge 10 cents for every page you read, and if you read 300 pages, you will raise $30.00 for the United Methodist Children's Home!). Participants can pick up a pledge form at the Northwest Library Information Desk.

Who It Benefits:
The youth at the United Methodist Children's Home.

Goal: $800
Last year we raised $650 for the United Methodist Children's Home. Let's raise more this year!

Schedule of Events:

9:00am:		Get settled. Wear comfy clothes, and feel free to bring sleeping bags, blankets, and pillows to create your own cozy nook in the Story Garden.
9:30am:		Celebrity Reader: Margaret Peterson Haddix will read from her newest book Uprising. After Margaret Peterson Haddix is done reading, we will raffle off an autographed copy of her book!
Noon:		Lunch Break.. Bring your own lunch, we'll have snacks and drinks.
1:00pm:		Celebrity Reader: Lisa Klein will read from her book Ophelia. After Lisa Klein is done reading, we will raffle off an autographed copy of her book.
4:30pm:		Reading Olympics! To celebrate the end of the Read-a-Thon, we'll have a little fun. Can you read while Hula Hooping? How about the Limbo?

• Every hour we will have a 5 minute break and raffle off cool prizes!
  
• T-SHIRTS TOO!! The 30 teens who read the most pages will receive a T-Shirt with the Read-A-Thon logo.

Download the Pledge Form here (PDF; 976KB) or pick up a copy at the Northwest Library Information Desk. All forms and money raised should be turned in by December 8.

There will be a TGIF event this Friday, November 16th at Northwest Library.

We will be watching "The Best of " videos from a teen video contest The Wexner Center held this past year. We will have refreshments and fun! Bring your friends!  The event is from 6pm-9pm. I hope to see you there!

On December 1st, the Northwest Library will be hosting a Read-A-Thon to earn money to buy holiday presents for the youth at the United Methodist Children's Home. Last year, we held a Holiday Bazaar where we sold baked goods, crafts and gently used items. We raised just over $600 and hope to raise even more this year. Because of the renovation, we don't have the space to hold the Bazaar, so we came up with the idea of the Read-A-Thon!

The Read-A-Thon will feature celebrity readers: Margaret Peterson Haddix and Lisa Klein!! See the schedule of events below.

Readers in 7^th through 12th grade are encouraged to participate in Northwest Library's Teen Read-a-Thon on Saturday, December 1 from 9am to 6pm. During these 9 hours, participants should try to read as much as they can. You can read anything you want. You can read your favorite books to yourself or to one another. We invite you to stay for the whole day or just part of the day, whatever suits your schedule.

How It Works:
Readers should find their own sponsors. Ask family, friends, neighbors, businesses to make pledges towards the total pages you read (for example, someone could pledge 10 cents for every page you read, and if you read 300 pages, you will raise $30.00 for the United Methodist Children's Home!). Participants can pick up a pledge form at the Northwest Library Information Desk.

Who It Benefits:
The youth at the United Methodist Children's Home.

Goal: $800
Last year we raised $650 for the United Methodist Children's Home. Let's raise more this year!

Schedule of Events:

9:00am:		Get settled. Wear comfy clothes, and feel free to bring sleeping bags, blankets, and pillows to create your own cozy nook in the Story Garden.
9:30am:		Celebrity Reader: Margaret Peterson Haddix will read from her newest book Uprising. After Margaret Peterson Haddix is done reading, we will raffle off an autographed copy of her book!
Noon:		Lunch Break.. Bring your own lunch, we'll have snacks and drinks.
1:00pm:		Celebrity Reader: Lisa Klein will read from her book Ophelia. After Lisa Klein is done reading, we will raffle off an autographed copy of her book.
4:30pm:		Reading Olympics! To celebrate the end of the Read-a-Thon, we'll have a little fun. Can you read while Hula Hooping? How about the Limbo?

• Every hour we will have a 5 minute break and raffle off cool prizes!
  
• T-SHIRTS TOO!! The 30 teens who read the most pages will receive a T-Shirt with the Read-A-Thon logo.

Download the Pledge Form here (PDF; 976KB) or pick up a copy at the Northwest Library Information Desk. All forms and money raised should be turned in by December 8.

WHO'S LINE IS IT ANYWAY........ Let the fun begin.

Ready to break in your funny bone and try a little stand up comedy? On Saturday, October 20th the Worthington Libraries will be hosting a Saturday night teen program at Fletcher's sports cafe (formally Buckeye Subs and Salads).

The fun starts at 6pm but you can come after the OSU-Michigan State game if you want. The comedy will continue until 9pm. Snacks will be provided but if you want to purchase dinner you will be in the right place to try out the great new menu at Fletcher's.

• What: TGIS: Who's Line is it....
• When: Saturday, October 20th
• Time: 6pm to 9pm
• Place: Fletcher's Sports Cafe (formally Buckeye Subs and Salads)
• Ages: 12 to 18 old teens
• Snacks Provided

• Friday Oct 5, 2007
• Northwest Library
• 6pm to 9pm
  NOTE: If want to participate in the tournament you need to be signed in by 6:15pm.
• The tournament starts at 6:30pm.
• Teens 12-18
• Snacks and drinks provided!! And it all happens after the library is closed.

Super Smash Brothers Melee is BAAACK!!! New day ! New time! New place!

On Saturday, September 15th the Worthington Libraries will be hosting their 7th Super Smash Brothers Melee Tournament at Fletchers (formally known as Buckeye Subs and Salads). The tournament starts promptly at 5:30pm so teens who want to participate need to be signed in by 5:15pm.

• Who: Teens 12-18
• What: Super Smash Brothers Melee
• When: Saturday, September 15
• Time: 5pm to 9pm
• Where: Fletcher's Sports Cafe (formally known as Buckeye Subs and Salads) 650 High Street

• When: Friday, July 27th
• Time: 6pm to 9pm (after the library is closed)
• Where: Old Worthington Library

Where will you be when the end comes?

Have you missed the video game tournaments this summer? Need your fulfill your craving to play Super Smash Brothers Melee at the library? Well, if you answered "yes" to either question, then you are in luck.

On Saturday, July 14th at the Old Worthington Library, we're playing FIVE HOURS of Super Smash Bros! The tournament starts at 12:00 pm and last until 5pm. Make sure you register by 12:30pm.

Snacks and drinks will be provided.

It's all part of the "Harry Potter & the Final Chapter," event that Worthington Libraries' is planning to celebrate the release of the seventh, and final, book in the Harry Potter anthology. The event will be a 15 hour party (yes 15 hours!) and will start at 10am and won't stop until 1 am July 21. It all takes place at Old Worthington Library, 820 High St.

Want more information?

Click here to read the entire entry. >>

There are lots of events planned for teens this summer. The first event, BookArt, is scheduled for Thursday June 14th.

Teens who love reading will enjoy turning books into art. We will be turning old books into stationary, jewelry, bookmarks and more! We also have a ton of old Altoid tins that we will be turning into mini scrapbooks. This is an event you don't want to miss!

Registration is required. Call 807-2656 to register.

March 9, 2007
Old Worthington Library
6pm to 9pm

• Teens 12-18 only
• Test your skill at DDR
• Watch some anime clips
• And it all happens after the library is closed (don't y'all feel special?)
• Snacks and drinks provided: can you say cookies, chips and pop?!
• Click here to see the poster for this event. >

Tired of the snow and the cold and the wind in your hair? Want to see flowers and birds and green grass? Is everyone ready for Spring? Well, I can't make the warm weather come any quicker but with your help, the Old Worthington Library will celebrate Spring Fever on March 10th.

This week, the Spring Teen Readers' Theatre Troupe will begin rehearsals for the March 10th performance. We will be bringing a little sunshine to the library and smiles to childrens' faces.

Time:	7:00pm - 8:30pm
Where:	Old Worthington Library Meeting Room
When:	Wednesday, February 21st Monday, February 26th Wednesday, February 28th Monday, March 5th Wednesday, March 7th Saturday, March 10th (1:30pm day of performance)
Performance:	Saturday, March 10th at 3pm

Hey everyone! Thanks for coming to the Video Game Tournament this past friday night. We had over 100 teens at the event which is certainly a record for us! We really appreciate your support and can't wait to see you at the next tournament!!! In the meantime, you can check out the pics using the Photos link above. From there, choose 2006-2007 Winter Teen Programs. Then click on TGIF: January 26, 2007 (Tournament Time).

If you attended the event, we would love it if you would post a comment.

Mark your calendars! You don't want to miss this event!

Sharon Draper, the New York Times bestselling author of several popular teen novels, including the recently released "Copper Sun," "Tears of a Tiger" and "Romiette and Julio," is coming to the Northwest Library! Teens and adults are invited to hear Ms. Draper speak! Sharon Draper will also be signing books at the end of the event. You can bring your own book, or buy one onsite.

Please join us!

• Tuesday, February 20, 2007 
• 7:00pm
• Northwest Library, Meeting Room

If you have any questions, please contact Sarah Cofer.

There are library copies of Ms. Draper's book available to check out at the Northwest Library Information Desk. That way you can read her books BEFORE her visit.

Click here to see the poster. >

This past Saturday, the Northwest Library's Teen Advisory Board held a Holiday Bazaar to earn money in order to buy holiday gifts for the youth at The United Methodist Children's Home. It was a huge success.

Our total earnings were $650!!

Thanks to everyone who staffed the event and to everyone who made such beautiful jewelry, paintings, cards, bookmarks, scarves, bags, etc. We could not have done this without you!!

Click here to see pictures of the event. >

This December the Teen Readers' Theatre Troupe will perform Jingle Jamboree!  We will perform a medley of stories and songs celebrating Winter, Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. We are looking for teens who love to sing and act and are able to make it to the weekly practice sessions.

PRACTICE SESSIONS:

• Wednesday, November 8, 6-8pm
• Friday November 10, 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm
• Wednesday November 15, 6-8pm
• Saturday November 18, 4-6pm
• Thursday November 30, 6-8pm

FINAL PERFORMANCE:

• Saturday December 2, 2006
• Practice from 1:30-2:30 followed by a 3pm performance

In order to participate in the final performance, you must attend 4 of 5 practices. For more information contact Sarah C. at 807-2656

The High Strung rocked the library this past Friday night!

There were about 40 teens who participated in DDR and Karaoke before the band started at 7pm. Then about 250 people came to see the band. They were awesome. The lil' kids danced and by the end, even some of you joined in (Ann even got talked into dancing! ). Thanks for coming out to the event and showing your support for library events!!!

Check out our pics from this event. >

The High Strung's visit to the Northwest Library was also featured in the Worthington News (Article | Photo) and ThisWeek Worthington.

Welcome to Bollywood was a resounding success last Friday night. Teens had a great time watching Ann try to put on her own Sari.   The food was great, the henna designs were flowing (thanks to the three guys that started off the henna tattoos) and the movie rocked. Check out pictures of the event. 

We would like to thank:

• Cuisine of India on Sancus Blvd, for graciously donating the vegetable pakora and the amazing sauces.
• Renuka Bhatt for the cool henna designs on hands, wrists, arms, and ankles.
• Shruti Patel for the bringing the beautiful saris. You will be missed!

Thanks to everyone who came to the Rated T for Teens event this past friday at Northwest Library. We had a great time playing in the Super Smash Bros Melee tournament, playing DDR and watching Anime.  If you have a comment about the event, post it. You can check out the photos from the event by clicking on the Photos link above and then going to Summer 2006 Teen Programs.

Thanks for attending our first TGIF event. It was lots of fun!