After school, we know kids want to relax, be with their friends, do homework, have fun, and be creative. Here are seven reasons why middle and high school students are spending time at the library after the bell rings.
1. Friends!
At the library, we’re about building connections, creating experiences, and giving every kid a place to belong. Sometimes kids show up with a friend or five, and often they make new ones.
That’s what happened with 16-year-old Leo and 17-year-old LaChawn (pictured above, right).
Leo told us how they met: “My friend knew some people from the library, and I got to know [LaChawn, a summer library intern]. And ever since then we’ve hung out.”
“You can always come to the library and know it’s a safe spot where people here care about you,” Leo added.
2. Super cool programs
Teens can find their place in so many different activities after school at the library. We have a book club, mentoring groups, gaming tournaments, crafting, and more.
One weekly highlight: Lights, Camera, Community (Tuesdays at 4 pm) is a dynamic storytelling program in which students can step behind (and in front of) the camera to capture the real stories of Oak Park, through their eyes. Students learn how to craft compelling narratives, dive into library resources that support their creative journeys, and celebrate the voices and experiences that shape our community.
See all upcoming programs for students in grades 6-12.
3. Games
Students can play epic board games, intense chess battles, hilarious trivia rounds, tricky riddles, and their favorite video games in our monthly Game On: Mind & Play Challenge.
We’ve got PS5 and Switch games that students can play after school, and we also regularly have tournaments for games including Super Smash Bros. and Tekken.
And don’t miss our Friendsgiving Escape Room challenge on November 20!
4. Leadership opportunities
Want to help create library programs, promote library services, serve the community, and have fun with friends, all while building your resume and developing leadership skills?
Apply to join the Leading Edge Teen Advisory Board (LETAB), a teen-led organization that promotes, supports, and creates initiatives at Oak Park Public Library and throughout the community. This group focuses on programs, service, and advocacy that give teens a voice and facilitate opportunities for leadership.
5. Homework help
In addition to all the regular services we provide for students, including helping them find and use resources, do research, and evaluate sources, we help students get ready for college and exams.
College Readiness: College Application Workshop
Wednesday, October 29, 7 pm
Monday, November 10, 7 pm
or Monday, November 24, 7 pm
Illinois Students Assistance Commission (ISAC) members will assist students with completing college applications to the college(s) of their choice and/or applying for direct admission through the state’s One Click College Admit program to participating Illinois public universities and community college.
Exam Cram (grades 9–12)
December 8–16 at the Main Library
Focus on upcoming tests and projects in a quiet study zone at the Main Library, complete with access to online tutoring, school supplies, and brain food.
- Monday-Thursday: 3–7 pm
- Friday: 3–6 pm
6. Mentoring
We offer two mentoring programs after school at the Main Library.
Beyond the Books Co-Ed Mentor Program
Mondays at 4 pm
This grant-supported program is facilitated by A Greater Good Foundation and inspires all students ages 13–18 to realize their fullest potential.
Tea Talk (grades 6–8)
Wednesdays at 4 pm
A place for middle school students to drink tea while getting the “tea” they need to succeed.
7. A community that truly cares
“I come here because of the community,” 16-year-old Leo told us. “There’s nice people you can tell about your passion, and then there’s different people you can go talk to and different ways that they can help you.”
Our supportive Middle & High School Services team (pictured above) is here to help your students find fun, friends, and growth. Meet the staff members and come say hi!