Created in 1997 to address the challenges of low reading scores among local students, the Library's Teen Reading Club is the only public program in Los Angeles addressing youth reading and literacy on a citywide/ongoing basis. The theme changes each year and for 2011 it is "You Are Here", an exploration of world travel and culture.

Donors to Teen Reading Club support materials and a wide range of free programs, which are critical for attracting and retaining an audience of young people who come to the library on their own. Programs include book discussion groups; video and film screenings; music, magic and puppet shows; wildlife programs; arts and crafts; and author talks.

In summer 2010, teens reflected on their role in the environment through the theme "Reduce, Recycle & Read". Nearly 10,000 young adults participated in the club and 531 special programs were held across the city. The 2010 club culminated in a "Trash to Art" contest that brought out the creative side of responsible environmentalism with entries including sculpture, knitted plastic bags, and a newspaper dress.

Thanks to the generosity of The L.K. Whittier Family Foundation, Walter Lantz Foundation, and Jean Perkins Foundation for their support of the Teen Reading Club.

To learn more about funding opportunities for Teen Reading Club, please contact Dawn Coppin, Director of Foundation & Corporate Relations, at (213) 228-7502.

Support for the Library Foundation of Los Angeles is support for the Los Angeles Public Library. Every dollar counts. Your gift to the Library Foundation helps the Los Angeles Public Library grow stronger.