Celebrate Juneteenth With Black Books!

Posted on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 by DBRLTeen

Happy Juneteenth everyone! This holiday, only recognized widely within the last few years, was established to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved Black Americans and as a day to celebrate the influence and contributions that Black Americans have made to the culture and history of the United States. The list of Black people who have had an impact on this country is far, far too long to list, but the influence of many of these figures is felt even to this very day. In times like these, it is especially important, when racism and violence against the Black community, both individual and institutional, is on the rise, that we can take a day to honor both all that we have achieved and all the struggles that have been overcome on the way here. With that in mind, we have put together a book list with a variety of titles written by Black authors, with Black characters, that celebrate Black history, and joy!

You can find our book list at the link here. No matter what draws your eye, we hope that you have a wonderful Juneteenth! As a reminder, all of our locations will be closed on June 19th.

Celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Posted on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 by Megan

Happy Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month! It is that time of year when we look at all the contributions and achievements of our friends and family in the AANHPI community, both past and present. With the increased anti-Asian hate during the pandemic, it is more important than ever to recognize the many ways that they have helped to shape our modern world for the better. With that in mind, DBRL has created a list of titles featuring AANHPI characters and stories, including some graphic novels and memoirs from various voices and backgrounds. Click here for the full book list.

 

YA Books For Your Sun Sign: Part I

Posted on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 by Grace

Readers…gather round.

We have long awaited a fail-proof method of sniffing out something new to read. You’ve probably tried everything: recommendations from friends and family, the viral hype of a BookTok series (or three), and Goodreads recommendations. All these have been…well, not unhelpful…but here, today, in the form of this blog post, I offer you the most reliable method of choosing a new read: following the stars. Continue reading “YA Books For Your Sun Sign: Part I”

Ask Book Oracle

Posted on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 by Megan

Are you looking for your next great read? Do you think the books on book tok are overrated? Have you read EVERY book at your school? Have you asked your friends and family for recommendations, but they have questionable taste in books and now you have trust issues? Do you find it annoying when blogs start with a bunch of rhetorical questions as a gimmick to keep you reading? Well look no further – we have something just for you! Continue reading “Ask Book Oracle”

Your Ticket to Love Trope

Posted on Monday, February 10, 2025 by Dana

Every genre has its tropes, or a commonly used theme or device. Fantasy has the “chosen one” or “lost royalty” and horror/thrillers have the “haunted house” and the “final girl” trope. Part of why tropes are used so routinely is that there is comfort in knowing how the story will probably play out, especially in romance. But then, we also enjoy it when a predictable formula gets a fun twist.

Angst – Whether they are star-crossed or hit by some other tragedy, happily ever after may not be possible.

Why We Love It: Sometimes, you just want to be in your feelings. See also: Sad People Music

Give It a Try: Songlight by Moira Buffini

 

 

 

Continue reading “Your Ticket to Love Trope”

2025 Youth Media Award Winners

Posted on Friday, January 31, 2025 by Megan

It’s finally here! It’s award season … for books! Early every year, the American Library Association (ALA) hosts its annual Youth Media Awards Press Conference. At this time, authors and illustrators of children’s and young adult literature are honored for the outstanding works they have published over the last year. 

These books are selected by judging committees of librarians and other literature and media experts, the awards encourage original and creative work. Below are the awards honoring distinguished books for young adult readers. Be sure to check out the book lists for the complete list of winners and honorees!  Continue reading “2025 Youth Media Award Winners”

Social Justice & Activism for Teens ✊✊🏻✊🏾

Posted on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 by DBRLTeen

“To anyone out there:

I only ask that you care before it’s too late,

That you live aware and awake,

That you lead with love in hours of hate.

I challenge you to heed this call,

I dare you to shape our fate.

Above all, I dare you to do good

So that the world might be great”

-Amanda Gorman, “An Ode We Owe

If the world feels too cold, everything is too much, or problems are too heavy come to the library! Libraries welcome everyone! We are here for each other and especially for you. Your library is here to help and books are a great place to start. Before you know it you’ll be a social justice warrior. 🦸🏾 Continue reading “Social Justice & Activism for Teens ✊✊🏻✊🏾”