Thunder Bay – LIVING – Youth Move @ Your Library is a new drop-in program for Thunder Bay Youth that will run at two library sites this fall. The initiative arose out of a recognized need among community partners to create more safe, supportive, friendly spaces for youth to hang out with their peers – to share ideas, access services, plan and organize their own activities, participate in programs, and access information to make responsible decisions and wise choices.
The four-month Pilot Project is a partnership initiative with the Thunder Bay Public Library, the City of Thunder Bay’s Recreation & Culture Division, the Crime Prevention Council and Evergreen a United Neighbourhood, who are all committed to making Thunder Bay safe, vibrant, inclusive and welcoming for everyone.
“The Youth Move Hubs at Brodie and Mary J.L. Black mark the next stage in the development of TBPL as a community-led and needs-based Community Hub”, said John Pateman, Chief Librarian. “This partnership project will enable the Library to identify, prioritize and help meet the needs of young people. It will also provide the opportunity for youth to be actively engaged in library services. Further, the program will help to deliver several of our Strategic Directions including Encouraging Lifelong Learning – by targeting and invigorating youth programs and services, and Promoting Diversity and Social Inclusion – by connecting youth to resources, organizations, learning opportunities and each other.” Pateman went on to say, “We are thrilled to be working with our partners in Youth Move @ your library.”
“This partnership is a perfect fit with the City’s Youth Strategy, which is based on the four pillars of Accessibility and Inclusiveness; Collaboration and Partnerships; Engagement and Empowerment; and Evidence-based/Best Practice,” said Maryann Kleynendorst, Supervisor – Support Services / Children & Youth, Recreation & Culture Division. “By bringing a variety of Youth-serving partners together under one roof, these hubs will provide safe and accessible spaces where all youth can access the services and supports they need.”
“Thunder Bay Youth have told us that they want more safe spaces to hang out at with their peers, places where they feel welcome and included, where they can be themselves without feeling judged.” said Lee-Ann Chevrette, Coordinator of the Crime Prevention Council. “Providing this space and programming is critical for community safety and well-being, and building strong neighbourhoods.”
Youth Move staff are highly motivated to work with youth from all walks of life, have a wealth of training and knowledge and strive to positively engage with all youth.
The Pilot Project will run from September 12 – December 23 at the two sites as follows:
Brodie Resource Library – Teen Area & Program Room
Mondays & Tuesdays @ 3:30 pm – 9 pm
Mary J.L. Black Library – Community Program Room
Monday, Wednesday, Friday @ 3:30 pm – 8 pm
Sunday @ 1 pm – 4 pm
