Hey there, Loft crew!
We’re halfway through summer (HOW??) and the Loft has been full of energy — whether you’re here to read, relax, create, or just enjoy the quiet. We’ve loved seeing familiar faces and welcoming new ones into the space.
Whether you’ve been stopping by regularly or haven’t visited yet, here’s what’s been going on — plus a few fun ways to get involved before summer winds down.
🎉 Loft Highlights So Far
The vibes have been on point. From our T(w)een Tasters program, which explored snacks of Greece, the explosion of Among Us crewmates on the wall, to some intense hot takes at our (Un)Popular Opinions book discussion, and new books flying off the shelves, it’s been awesome seeing so many of you make the Loft your space this summer.
One of our favorite things is y’all coming in to claim your Summer Reading prize books and/or vinyl stickers — someone claimed over 25 stickers the other day because of all the great activities they’ve been doing! It is intense how much attention y’all give to making sure you get the perfect stickers. Make sure you don’t miss out — and heads up, we’ve got a sticker restock order on the way!
📚 Book Picks: Summer Sprints
Still trying to finish your summer reading? Or just want something quick and unputdownable?
Here are a few staff faves you can read in a weekend:
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Beasts by Ingvild Bjerkeland (short, terrifying, post-apocalyptic monster vibes)
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That Summer by Sarah Dessen (waiting for the next bit of The Summer I Turned Pretty? Try this mid-90’s YA classic)
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Rayleigh Mann in the Company of Monsters by Ciannon Smart (perfect if you’re obsessed with Percy Jackson and need your next “surprise, you’re the son of a god!” fix – except instead of Poseidon, Rayleigh learns he’s the son of the Bogey Mann)
Need more ideas? We got you. Ask a staff member or fill out a Teen Book Match for a customized list just for you!
✏️ Program Spotlight: Try Something New
There’s still plenty to explore before school starts! A few highlights:
- Low-Stakes Game Night – Come join us for a chill evening of gaming and snacks! – Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
- T(w)een Preschool – Revisit the fun, carefree activities from your early childhood – think imaginative play and toys. Get ready for a dose of nostalgia and fun… we might even bring out the parachute. – Friday, August 1, 2025, from 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
- Self-Defense Workshop – Participate in a series of discussions and learn physical self-defense skills and techniques. Training will focus on three key areas: mindset, skill set, and planning. Specific topics may include situational awareness, bystander intervention, consent, healthy relationships, simple effective strikes, how to escape common grabs, and much more. Note: A parent or guardian for each participant must complete an electronic waiver in advance of the event. – Monday, August 4, 2025, from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
You don’t need a library card to register, just click the link for each program to sign up & we’ll see you there!
🧠 Loft Life Pro Tip
Did you know… the Loft has quick & easy crafts and coloring sheets for you to do while you hang out with your friends, available whenever you’re there? We’ve also got taco-scented bookmarks, little prizes if you show us your library card, and affirmation cards if you need a pick-me-up. Add your artwork to the Teen Loft Art Book, or ask for your Among Us crewmate to go on the wall. We’ve also got phone chargers if you need the energy boost.
See you in the Loft!
— Your Library Teen Team 💛
P.S. You don’t have to be doing summer reading to stop by (but if you are, the stickers are plentiful). The air conditioning and WiFi is free and the vibes are elite.
As always, you can share your feedback with us here – we’d love to hear your Lofty thoughts!
All summer long, our WUITL issues will spotlight various aspects of the Teen Loft to welcome new t(w)eens into our space. If you’ve got an idea for a feature, or something else you’d like to contribute to this newsletter, let us know!
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