How to Have Fun at the Library (for Kids and Teens)

This updated guide explains how to Have Fun at the Library (for Kids and Teens) through clear steps, practical examples, and important checks that help prevent common errors.

Method 1 of 3:

Finding Books You Enjoy

Find a genre you like. It could be adventure stories, mysteries, horror, romance, real life, animal stories - there are so many to choose from! If you haven't read many books before and aren't sure which genre you'd like, pick a book of the same genre as a movie you like. The chances are you'll like the book as well. Don't be afraid to try new genres!
Find your favorite author. Once you've found a genre you like, experiment with different authors who write in that genre. Find your favorite author. Read that author's books. If the author also writes in another genre, try those books as well.
Ask the library staff for recommendations. They are up on the latest titles, and can recommend authors you may not have heard of.

Method 2 of 3:

Doing Fun Activities

Enter summer reading programs. Most libraries have a theme with their summer reading programs, and activities to go with the theme. Usually there are also prizes to be won for accomplishments such as reading a certain number of books throughout the summer. There may even be a grand prize for reading the most books.
Treat yourself after reading. Do a fun activity after reading a certain amount of chapters, or for a certain amount of time. Eventually, reading itself may become the fun activity.
Go with friends. You can share favorite books and authors and recommend books to them.
Have a book race. Get some friends and walk fast around the library and try to find the oldest book, the biggest book, or some other unique quality. Find a prize for the winner!

Method 3 of 3:

Getting Involved at the Library

Volunteer! ! It will be fun just to help out at the library and it feels good to be useful. Be as helpful as you can.
Become an advisor. Many libraries have a teen/preteen advisory board for input on developing collections, organizing activities, and developing policies. If your library doesn't have a teen advisory board, talk to the staff about organizing one.

FAQ

What is the easiest way to Have Fun at the Library (for Kids and Teens)?

Start with the requirements in this guide, then follow each step in order. Check the result after every major change so problems are easier to identify.