Connecting Chicago
In 2009, the YouMedia curriculum will be linked to the Library’s Spring and Fall One Book, One Chicago programs which will be a significant opportunity for youth to participate in a larger city-wide conversation.
Youth engaged in the YouMedia program will reflect the diversity of the City itself and the space will be free and open to all teens across Chicago.
YouMedia will be pushed in all 79 locations of the Chicago Public Library and through other partners to assure all parts of this rich city are represented.
Initial calls for youth ambassadors for the program has already yielded 50 teens from 32 Chicago high schools.
In efforts to further connect chicago teens, computer and media equipment will be available to any teen with a valid Chicago Public Library card.
Particular focus will be in those neighborhoods where a digital divide exists and home computer ownership may not be yet a reality.