Smillie
When many of us think of a library, we imagine all of the great resources that it provides for the children in our lives — storytimes, crafts, early literacy and social growth — to name a few.
But the belief that a library’s foundation, and its resources and services, is primarily built around children (and even older adults) could not be more untrue. The library opens up a world of possibilities for young adults to access and enjoy, from book discussions to fun programs, literacy resources, tutoring and more.
Johnson County Public Library offers numerous book discussions in multiple formats that young adults may choose from and participate in. Stout Stories allows young adults to join together for happy hour and socialize while discussing the book of the month. Silent Book Club at our Clark Pleasant branch provides a silent and enjoyable hour of reading together, followed by 30 minutes of optional socialization with refreshments.
In September, our White River branch will begin its Trendy TikTok Page Turners book club, where we will discuss a book that has been or is trending on the massively popular social media platform.
These are just a few options for those interested in joining a book discussion (or two), and participants are encouraged to join a discussion even if they have not finished — or even read — that month’s pick.
We also offer a wide variety of fun, enriching, and informative programs. From Dungeons and Dragons for Adults to movie nights to self-defense classes, there is never a shortage of incredible and fun programs that young adults will enjoy. We also offer many engaging craft programs, with our Library Services Center providing a fun afternoon of cross-stitching and socialization, our Franklin branch hosting a monthly plastic canvas craft for adults, and our Clark Pleasant branch hosting a Crochet Cords and Cording program during August.
This fall, JCPL continues to offer Crafty Killers True-Crime Podcast Club, a true-crime podcast program where attendees bring a craft they are working on and listen together, as well as our White River branch hosting a Fantastical Tales and Trivia night for fantasy lovers to attend and participate in a fun game of trivia while dressing up and enjoying themed snacks.
JCPL continues to provide informative and fun educational resources for teens and adults. From food budgeting and meal planning to financial and estate planning, we allow for creative and effective ways to engage in learning useful skills. CPR and AED Training, Medicare 101, and QPR Gatekeeper Training are just a few other educational programs JCPL will offer or host this fall.
The library is, and always will be, an incredible resource for young adults. It provides many opportunities for socialization and community connection, educational resources and services, and the ability to provide a safe space for young adults to come in and enjoy their time.
This summer, come and visit any of our JCPL locations and try at least one program in education, socialization or book discussion, and open yourself to the incredible opportunities a library can and is providing for the young adults in their communities. You can find our programs online at PageAfterPage.org/events or stop by a JCPL branch and pick up a free program guide.
Erica Smillie is the adult services librarian at JCPL’s White River branch. JCPL staff members share in writing this twice-monthly column for the Daily Journal. Send comments to [email protected].
