Hushed voices, pencils scratching, game controllers clicking and Expo markers squeaking: these are the sounds of the study space, hang-out area, craft cove, gaming station and talent gallery that is Teen Central. The Downers Grove Public Library is a space for the community, providing not only books and other materials, but also programs, gathering spaces and opportunities for connection. These ideas are extended to local teenagers, with Teen Central serving as a space exclusively for young people in grades 7-12, including accompanying activities, resources and opportunities.

Teen Program Coordinator at DGPL and Young Adult Library Professional of the Year Jade Parks works on maintaining and growing Teen Central and related programming. She discussed the importance of having a “third space” outside of home and school for students, and aims to make Teen Central a space that serves this purpose.

“I think it’s so important for people to have a third space…you don’t have to have an appointment, you don’t have to buy a coffee, you can just be here,” Parks said.

Junior Victoria Zibert has been to Teen Central in the past, describing how it can be a beneficial environment for studying.

“I think the atmosphere helps me focus because it’s calm there…and when I want to take a break, I can check out a book or read, which I find [is] always nice,” Zibert said.

Zibert has also utilized the craft kits available for use in Teen Central, one of many activities accessible to teens. Parks discussed the guesswork of what teens will enjoy, and the variations in attendance and popularity.

“It really depends on the time of year; during the summer, our passive programs are the most popular, we have a lot of people in the library using the space. The maker kits are really popular…We have [after-hours programs like] nerf nights, movie nights, self-care nights, that kind of thing,” Parks said.

While DGPL is a space for the entire community, Teen Central is designed to eventually become by teens, for teens. When students like Zibert express concerns or ideas, it is Parks’s goal to make those a reality through programs like Teen Library Council, where students have the opportunity to meet once a month and work to grow Teen Central. Examples of the council’s work include new board game recommendations, providing book display ideas and more.

“I just really want to make this space reflect the things that I’m told that the community wants, because a lot that I do right now is [informed] guessing,” Parks said.

Zibert appreciates the space that’s exclusive for teens like her.

“I think it’s a great space to get some quiet and focus on school work,” Zibert said.

You can check out the library’s upcoming programs here.