Time’s flying by, but summer isn’t over yet! With plenty of vacation left to go, you may be running out of ways to keep your teen busy.
Luckily we’ve got some engaging ideas for activities you can add to your teen’s summer bucket list.
The best part? They’re all completely FREE to do at the Edmonton Public Library!
Haven't got a library card? Sign up for free online., opens a new window
1. Create Something Cool
Our Makerspace, opens a new window has everything teens need for their next creation, including 3D printers, computers loaded with design and editing software, a vinyl cutter, green screens and more.
Encourage teens to drop by our Enterprise Square Branch and get creative—it’s a fun and easy activity to cross off any summer bucket list.
If recording a song or a podcast piques your teen’s interest, both our Enterprise Square and Whitemud Crossing branches are equipped with sound booths, editing equipment and instruments available to borrow.
2. Find a New Favourite Read
Teens can check out staff picks, opens a new window on our website, search for books based on their current faves or preferred theme using NoveList, opens a new window, talk to library staff for recommendations, access new reads instantly through our digital collection or just come in and browse our teen section.
The library is also a low-pressure way for teens to try a new format. We’ve got a huge digital collection, including eBooks, digital audiobooks, graphic novels and comics—all available to download on a mobile device!
3. Get in the Game
Teens who have a love of gaming can join us for fun programs in the library or sign out video games to play at home with their friends.
Several EPL branches have drop-in Xbox gaming where customers can book the console for an hour to play with friends. Find out more on our video games, opens a new window page.
And, of course, good old fashioned board games are available to play in the library too.
4. Learn Something New
Our non-fiction collection and online resources, opens a new window have everything teens need to learn something new—whether it’s a new hobby, a language or skill.
They can become a photographer, discover how to code or dive into digital design with a little help from LinkedIn Learning, opens a new window. Or they could learn a new language with Mango, opens a new window or Rosetta Stone.
5. Take on a Summer Reading Challenge
Why should kids have all the fun? Now adults and teens can track their reading to win prizes with Summer Reads ‘18, opens a new window, our new reading club for teens and adults (anyone over the age of 12 can join).
Everyone who completes the activity sheet (which includes reading for eight hours and doing at least four listed activities) before Sunday, Aug. 26 will be entered for the chance to win some rad prizes like a Mini Super Nintendo Entertainment System.
6. Borrow or Stream Movies to Watch with Friends
From popular faves to Oscar-nominated films to classic cinema and docs, there are plenty of movies to choose from at EPL.
Stream movies for free online with Kanopy, opens a new window or hoopla, opens a new window, or come in and sign out a DVD or Blu-ray. Check out our list of the 6 Best Teen Movies of All Time, opens a new window for some ideas.
7. Hang Out (and Enjoy the AC)
Is your teen looking to beat the heat?
On hot summer days, the library is a cool place to hang out—literally!
With study spaces, meeting rooms, computers and more, teens can lounge in an air conditioned space at any of our branches, opens a new window.
We've got 21 locations spread out across Edmonton, so no matter where you are, there's sure to be a library near you.
8. Read Out Loud to a Younger Sibling
Give your teen the chance to revisit some old favourites or check out our list of Best Read Aloud Children's Novels, opens a new window for ideas.
Nothing says summer fun like bonding over a good book—and this activity comes with the bonus of keeping your younger kids occupied as well!
If your teen loves to read (or you want to motivate them to read more) encourage them to sign up for Summer Reads ‘18, opens a new window, our new summer reading club for teens and adults.
