Victoria Public Library Hosting Teen Programs This Week!

Spring breakers can hang out and game on this week at Victoria Public Library.

A first for spring break programming, the library is offering two teen events Thursday and Friday - a video-making session and an after-hours lock-in.

Brandy LeLeux, public services manager at the library, said the goal is to reach out to young readers.

"One of our strategic plan goals is stimulating imagination and having reading, viewing and listening for pleasure," she said. "What better way to grab teens than through something they're already active in?"

On Wednesday, the library hosted a craft session geared toward youngsters.

Elva Cano, 57, of Victoria, and her granddaughter, Bella Macias, 10, of El Campo, took advantage of the free fun.

Bella is staying the week with her grandmother, and the two were spending the day flexing their art skills. They found out about the event through the library's Facebook page.

"The atmosphere is fun, and there's great activities for the children," Cano said.

Recently, the library opened a section of video games, which LeLeux said build concentration, creativity, problem-solving and teamwork and is keeping up with other technology trends.

Since the video game section opened, LeLeux said teen participation has increased.

The events Thursday and Friday are geared toward people ages 12 to 18.

"It's a way where the kids don't have to worry about their parents, taking care of little brothers and sisters," she said. "They can have fun, relax and let their imagination be the limit."

The movie-making program will teach teens how to use iPads and the iMovie app to hone their skills as future filmmakers.

The videos will premiere Friday at the lock-in, where teens can enjoy pizza, popcorn, Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 games and music by yours truly.

The library is conducting a survey this month to incorporate more ideas into improving its teen and young adult section.

"This space is theirs," LeLeux said. "You can get homework done, relax, escape from the world for a second, read a book, listen to an audio book or CD, check out an iPad. We want this to be their third home."