Teen Programs with Punch: A Month-by-Month Guide »

VALERIE A. OTT is the Manager of the Reference Department at Wadsworth Public Library where she was Teen Services Librarian for four years. She is on the Action Council of the Young Adult Services Division of the Ohio Library Council, and is a member of ALA as well as YALSA, for which she serves on the Communications Task Force. Ott has been editor for YALS, YALSA's quarterly journal and is a monthly reviewer for VOYA and Kirkus Reviews. She lives in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, with her husband, Eric.

Looking for some fresh program ideas for your teen patrons? Want to change those bored expressions on teen faces to eager smiles? This guide offers a stimulating selection of program ideas that will appeal to teens between the ages of 12 and 18 throughout the year! Recognizing that there is no such thing as a typical teenager, the programs represent a broad range of interests, from arts and crafts workshops to educational programs to purely recreational activities--from serious to serious fun. Programs for all seasons include "Goth Gathering," "Intolerance Forum," "Night at the Oscars," "Library Fear Factor," "Find Your Future," and "Cyber-Safety." Everything you need to get started is here--from the nitty gritty details like supply lists and approximate costs to practical, step-by-step instructions. Collection connections and ideas for promotion enhance the guide. And there are also suggestions for those times "when time is short and money is tight." A wonderful combination of inspiration and practicality, and of start-to-finish guidance for successful teen programming. Grades 6-12.

Michele CapozzellaCopyright 2006 Reed Business Information. - School Library Journal

Believing that there is no such thing as a "typical" teenager, Ott has gathered together less-than-conventional program ideas arranged by month. She provides clear instructions, lists of supplemental materials, promotional ideas, reading lists, costs, and suggested grade levels for each one. For librarians with limited budgets, and who may be pressed for time, there are quick and easy ideas that cost little or no money. Where relevant, references to books and online sources are given. Many of the programs are designed to draw underserved populations, such as goths, GLBTQ teens, and vegetarians, into the library. Appendixes include supplemental materials such as charts and puzzles. This highly informative guide would make a great addition to any YA librarian's professional collection.