The Columbia Public Library has once again partnered with the C.A.R.E. Art Gallery to provide an exhibit of original art celebrating our summer reading theme, “Build a Better World.” Teens crafted pieces that were inspired by the book “Iggy Peck, Architect” by Andrea Beaty. This book features a creative, independent and brave little boy who is not afraid to pursue his passion for architecture. These works will be on display through July.
The C.A.R.E. Art Gallery, which began in 2000, serves as a visual arts work site for the C.A.R.E. program. Approximately 15 creative youth are given the opportunity to work as paid artists for eight weeks during the summer. Art Gallery trainees learn from professional artists and participate in activities designed to enhance their existing skills.
The Art Gallery is funded in part by the Missouri Arts Council and the City of Columbia’s Office of Cultural Affairs. Applications are typically available in early February for those wanting to be considered for next year’s program.
Next Friday, July 14, we will be transforming the Studio into an escape room for teens. This is a live action game in which players solve puzzles, crack codes and follow clues to break free from dystopian rule much like Tris in “Divergent” or Katniss in”The Hunger Games.”
The Columbia Public Library will be offering three sessions of “Break Out of Dystopia!” from 11-12 p.m., 2-3 p.m. and 4-5 p.m. This program is for youth ages 12-18. To register, please call (573) 443-3161.
Want to read up and polish your skills? Try one of these dystopian titles: Continue reading “Dystopian Escape Room on July 14”
What It’s About: “The Sun Is Also A Star” is a story about love and leaving. Natasha is desperate to find a way to keep herself and family from being deported back to Jamaica. Daniel has the biggest meeting of his life, an entrance interview for an Ivy League college that he doesn’t want to attend. Fate puts these two in each other’s path again and again on the day Natasha is scheduled to be deported. At first Natasha doesn’t believe in love, but as her feelings for Daniel grow it becomes too difficult for her to deny. Here’s the conflict: If she admits she is falling in love with him, how can she say goodbye to him in less than 24 hours?
What I liked about it: I liked that the story is told from both Natasha’s and Daniel’s viewpoints. During most of the book, Natasha is a very cynical young woman who cares more about facts and numbers than art and love. Daniel, a poet, is her exact opposite. At times it felt like this opposition was a bit contrived. Honestly, I didn’t like Natasha until the very end. However, the story is very good and the ending was my favorite part.
Similar Titles: If you like realistic fiction about love or multicultural relationships, here are a few books you should check out: “Something In Between” by Melissa De La Cruz, “Like No Other” by Una LaMarche, “The Orange Houses” by Paul Griffen and “You in Five Acts” also by Una LaMarche.
Our gaming program and costume con were so popular last summer, that we are offering these special events once again at the Columbia Public Library. On Monday, July 17, join us for table top gaming from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Bring your own game or Magic: The Gathering cards. We’ll also have Oregon Trail, Pandemic, Small World and more! Snacks will be provided. Ages 10 and older.
Then, on Friday, August 4, we’ll host a fun-filled, after-hours Cosplay Costume Con. Dress up as your favorite character, be it superhero, anime, sci-fi or your own original persona. Registration will begin at 5:30 p.m., so be sure to arrive before the library closes at 6 p.m.
Our panel of guest judges include Brandy Cross and Gabe Halicks from Distant Planet Comics and Collectibles and Jolene Metzen, a professional costumer with a degree in Costume Design and Technology. They will award delightful prizes for the best costumes and characterization in different age categories, so be ready to show off your cosplay game! All ages are welcome.
Photos by Flickr User Marnie Joyce. Used under Creative Commons license.
“Summer of Code” is a four-part coding camp for teens at the Columbia Public Library. From core structure to stylish flair, we will guide you through the basics of HTML and CSS. A valid email address is required. Sessions will be held Wednesdays, Jul. 12, Jul. 19, Jul. 26 and Aug. 2. from 6-8 p.m. Attendance is required at all sessions in order to participate in this coding camp.
“Summer of Code” is for high-school students ages 14-18. Registration begins Tuesday, June 27. To sign up, please call (573) 443-3161.
Project Teen is a regular program hosted at each of our three library branches. This month, channel your inner writer, create outdoor artwork or enjoy retro crafts like Shrinky Dinks!
Project Teen: Creative Writing
Friday, June 16 and 23, 2-3:30 p.m.
Callaway County Public Library
Teens have lots of things to say to the world. Come to this two-part creative writing workshop and learn how to tell your story. We’ll do some practice writing, learn the basics of fiction and creative nonfiction prose, and then you’ll produce your own short project. Ages 13-17. No registration required.
Project Teen: Garden Art
Thursday, June 22, 3:15-4:15 p.m.
Southern Boone County Public Library
Beautify your garden with art made with beads or Shrinky Dinks. Ages 12 and up. No registration required.
Project Teen: Retro Crafts
Monday, June 26, 1-2:30 p.m.
Columbia Public Library, Studio
Enjoy retro crafts like Shrinky Dinks, friendship bracelets and buttons! Pizza served. Ages 12-18. Registration required. To sign up, please call (573) 443-3161.
Art has the power to inspire new perspectives and build connections in our community. Express your creativity by submitting a work of visual art inspired by our Summer Reading theme, “Build a Better World.”
Enter a two-dimensional piece in one of four categories: photography, painting, drawing or collage. Winners will receive a gift card for art supplies. Artwork will be showcased on our website and at the library’s branches.
Submission
Entries must be submitted at the Callaway County, Columbia or Southern Boone Public Library. A completed entry form must be included with your submission. Continue reading “Teen Art Contest”
Daniel Boone Regional Library is challenging youth ages 12-18 to read for 20 hours, submit three book reviews, and do seven activities that make a positive impact. Complete Summer Reading, and beginning July 5, you’ll receive a free book. You’ll also be entered into a drawing for other fun rewards including an Amazon Fire Tablet.
Step One: Register for the Teen Summer Reading Challenge. Download a reading record to help you keep track of your reading, reviews and activities.
Step Two: Submit three book reviews.
Step Three: Complete any seven of these activities. Continue reading “2017 Teen Summer Reading Challenge”
The Gateway Readers Award honors a young adult novel that is selected by Missouri high school students. To be eligible to vote, students must read at least three of the finalists. Voting will occur at participating schools early next March, so you can use the summer months to get crack-a-lackin’ on this list! The winner will be announced in April 2018.
“Ruthless” by Carolyn Lee Adams
When Ruth is kidnapped, she’s determined not to become the serial-killer’s next trophy. She escapes, but her captor begins stalking her through the wilderness.
“Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo
Six dangerous outcasts. One impossible heist. Kaz’s crew is the only thing that might stand between the world and destruction, if they don’t kill each other first.
“Emmy & Oliver” by Robin Benway
She’s lived a sheltered life, but when 17-year-old Emma’s childhood best friend reappears, after 10 years missing, Emmy’s hopes return. Continue reading “2017-18 Gateway Award Finalists”
This year’s Summer Reading program, Build a Better World, invites youth to challenge themselves, try new things and work together to make positive change in the world. Here is an opportunity for you to build a better world by becoming a better leader!
The Truman Youth Leadership Academy is a one-week summer daycamp that is open to all incoming 6th, 7th and 8th grade students that want to explore leadership skills, civic involvement and community service through the University of Missouri’s four core values: Respect, Responsibility, Discovery and Excellence.
The 2017 summer camp will take place July 10-14 in the MU Student Center. There is a recommended registration due date of July 1st. A limited amount of scholarships are available on a first come, first serve basis. For more information, please contact camp coordinator Sam Dicke at (573) 882-1739.
Further reading about leaders and making a difference:
