The Bethel Public Library is excited to present the recently renovated Teen Space and expanded Project Lab to the community.
On Sunday, October 23, 2022 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. the Library will be showcasing the new Project Lab and Teen space. At 2 p.m. the Library will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Representative Raghib Allie-Brennan (D-2) and the Friends of the Bethel Public Library.
Rep. Raghib Allie-Brennan assisted the Friends of the Bethel Public Library in securing a $150,000 grant for nonprofit organizations through the state’s Judicial Branch Support Services and their Youth Violence Prevention program.
The Library had three objectives: (1) Create spaces in the Library where Teens want to spend their time. Spaces were designed to cultivate engagement and social/emotional growth through purpose-built modular furniture allowing for flexible design. (2) Provide programming that prepares them for adulthood and exposes them to new opportunities, e.g., career exploration, and life skills. (3) Provide access to our Project Lab (Makerspace) that allows Teens to create and experiment with new materials and technology such as 3D printing, videography, and recording.
In Year One of the grant, the Bethel Public Library redesigned the Teen space to create a safe and welcoming place where Teens can congregate, study, and attend programs. The Library then relocated the Project Lab to the second floor and brought in new equipment that Teens can experiment and learn with.
For year two of the grant, the Library will be launching a new teen programming initiative in the newly renovated spaces starting in November 2022. Teens will have access to video and recording equipment, 3D printers, laser engravers, animation and graphic design software and tools.
To learn more about the Youth Services grant and the full schedule of activities taking place on October 23, 2022, check out https://www.bethellibrary.org/openhouse/.