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For Teens

Teens are important to the Library!  Visit the Teen Hub for more about services for ages 13-18 

Questions? Comments? Ask or tell us!

Teen Volunteering and Jobs

Teen Volunteering and Jobs link

Volunteer with the Library
Take on a volunteer position with the library

Internships 
The library hosts paid interns every summer through various City and County sponsored internship programs. Find out more about these opportunities on the Youth and Family Services site for the City of Austin. Annual application window for summer is the end of January through March.

Service Projects 
Does your organization want to do a service project for Teen Central? Reach out to kathleen.houlihan [at] austintexas.gov to discuss!

Teen Support

Teen Support link

Book a Teen Librarian for Help
Individuals can Book a Teen Librarian to get 30 minutes of 1-on-1 or group assistance on research projects or using library resources from a librarian, or get Job Coaching help with anything from resumes, to mock interviews, to college essay feedback.

Snacks
Through at partnership with the Central Texas Food Bank, the Austin Public Library provides free snacks for youth age 0-17 at the following locations (ask a youth librarian at each location for information):

Hygiene Supplies
Most library locations provide access to menstrual equity hygiene supplies, and may provide access to other resources, too. Ask at your location, or visit Teen Central for more information. 

Tutoring 
Visit Brainfuse (or download the app) to get free online tutoring, including writing feedback, and language practice support. Also get help filling out the FAFSA!

Research Tools 
Visit our Homework Help databases to conduct research for your next project. Not sure where to start? We love Gale OneFile. 
Learn a language with the library's apps

Adulthood Resources 
Did you know that you can get your Passport at the library? Or take a course on protecting your mental health with hoopla (free from the library)?  Check out our Adulthood Guide with other resources that you might need as you transition into adulthood.

Driving Permit Practice Tests 
Free online practice for your driving test.

 

Teen Central

Teen Central link

Teen Central is a space that serves teens age 13-18 and is located on the 3rd floor of the Central Library. 

Special equipment and supplies for teens 13-18 in the space:

  • Alienware gaming computers
  • Instrument Library (acoustic and digital)
  • Art and homework supplies
  • Teen zine library
  • Comfort cabinet with hygiene supplies 
  • Snack packs for teens 17 and under

Hours:
Same hours as the Central Library

Can I visit if I'm not 13-18?
All ages are welcome to enter and explore the room and browse books. The seating, equipment and activities are reserved just for teens age 13-18.

Read more about Teen Central

Attend upcoming events at Teen Central (teens 13-18 only)

Teen Central Equipment

Teen Central Equipment link

Instruments in the Music Lab are reserved exclusively for teens age 13-18 at all times, and are available for free-play experimentation any time the library is open 

  • *NEW* Spring 2025: 6 Music Lab Macs with MIDI keyboards
  • Full electric keyboard
  • Left-handed electric guitar
  • Electric Drum Kit
  • Yamaha PSR-EW400 Keyboard
  • Fender Precision Bass
  • Fender Stratocaster Electric Guitar
  • Electro-Harmonix 22500 Looper Pedal
  • Fender Mustang GT100 Amp
  • Fender Rumble Studio 40 Bass Amp
  • Synth Library (available upon request)
     

Media Creation Equipment
Available for use any time the library is open - some available upon request as indicated

  • Akai MPK 225 Midi Keyboard Controller
  • Wacom Intuos Pro (M) Tablets with Stylus
  • Novation Circuit Tracks Groovebox & other synthesizers [available on request]
midi keyboard and mac computer guitars, keyboards, drum set in music lab

Teen Educator Support

Teen Educator Support link

Educator Cards
Group Cards for teachers in schools, child care centers, group or supported living homes in Austin (as well as teachers at any school in Travis County)

Field Trips
Request a Free Field Trip to the Central Library. For branch locations, please contact the branch directly

Curriculum Support
Ask a Librarian to help put together lists of curriculum-aligned resources

Book a Librarian for a meeting to discuss research support for your curriculum

Book Selection
Learn how books are selected for teens and young people.