New Teen Library Plans Big Party

“Psst! Party in the reference section.” A hard invitation to ignore.

in the downtown to accommodate teens, librarians want to throw a party. They’re calling it the Selby Band Bash. And it’s free.

Mark the date, Jan. 7. The library will close at the regular time at 5 p.m. that Saturady, and then re-open in a much noisier atmosphere. On tap are The GarbageMen, UnEven LaNes, Siege of Malakand, the Sarasota Youth Opera and Let’s Rock Sarasota/Music School of Rock.

And there will be DJs from More than Music. The entire library will be open for the event, but the focus is on the southeast corner.

“The new teen center has been a big hit,” said Marilyn Nykiforuk, the supervisor of library youth services.

In addition to the music, there will be food and refreshments and one educational project: how to make guacamole. Jimmy Johns, Chick-fil-A, Whole Foods Market, Chipotle Mexican Grill and Panera Bread will all be there. Plus Publix and Kaiser University and Bob Evans Farms, too.

The center formally opened on Dec. 2. Nykiforuk said since then, “It’s always busy and the teens tell me they like have a space dedicated specifically to their age group.”

While the event is targeted at teens, everyone is welcome.

“Check out our new look and enjoy the show,” Nykiforuk said.

The library rehab features computer work stations, large seating areas, work tables and a conference/meeting room all focused on teens. Plus the books, of course. Remember those?