Programming

The Chicago Public Library's YOUmedia programming offers teens opportunities to engage with literature through book discussion groups and activities like Reader's Theatre, where participants build their acting skills, gain exposure to great books, and earn community service-learning hours.

YOUmedia also allows teens to collaborate and create with digital media in an innovative physical space as well as through a vibrant online community. New Media Workshops led by skilled mentors help teens pursue their passions more deeply, whether it's producing digital music or learning the fundamentals of spoken word poetry. Project Groups provide opportunities for teens with shared interests to come together to develop their skills and leadership abilities.

When teens join YOUmedia, they receive an invitation to the YOUmedia social network, where they can share and collaborate with friends, mentors, librarians, and media experts. Using YOUmedia's digital equipment such as still and video cameras; an in-house recording studio featuring keyboards, turntables, and a mixing board; drawing tablets; and video and photo editing software, teens can share with peers such digital artifacts such as:

• Music
• Videos
• Designs
• Photographs
• Blogs

Accessing YOUmedia programming is simple, and membership is free with a valid Chicago Public Library card. Members also receive updates about special workshops, projects, contests, and events.