Teen Scene

January Events

2011-12-31T14:47:00.010-05:00

TEEN ZINE NIGHT

Wednesday, January 4^th, 2012 at 6-8PM, Ages 11-18

The Oconee County Library’s TEEN ZINE will be finishing up on January 4^th, 2012. At this event, we will be working on ideas for the ZINE RELEASE PARTY scheduled for late February. Also, we will be generating extra pages, selecting pages for the zine, deciding on cover art, binding and distribution. Anyone who is interested in art, writing or DIY publishing should attend. Snacks provided.

ANIME CLUB

Wednesday, January 11^th, 2012 at 6-8PM, Ages 13-18

Anime club meetings are open to dedicated fans of Anime and Manga, as well as beginners. The meetings are free and include previews of Anime, Manga, J-Pop music, snacks, fan art and fan fiction sharing by teens while munching on ramen and other snacks.

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World + POPCORN

Wednesday, January 18^th, 2012 at 6-8PM, Ages 11-18

In celebration of National Popcorn Day on Jan. 19^th, we will be serving copious amounts of various popcorn snacks while watching Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, a teen movie based on the popular graphic novel series. PG-13.

MURDER MYSTERY DINNER

Wednesday, January 25^th, 2012 at 6-8PM, Ages 11-18

The ultimate who done it! Help us find the killer in a thrilling round of Clue while munching on delicious spaghetti. Afterward, we will find discover who did it in the movie!

December Events

2011-12-01T15:12:00.004-05:00

Teen Advisory Board Meeting

Monday, December 5 from 7-8pm

Teen Advisory Board is a volunteer team of teens that meet once a month. Members make book suggestions for the library, help plan teen programs such as the Haunted House and other exciting upcoming events, and assist with cutting, folding, assembling, or other projects. We will discuss what's popular in teen books, magazines, music, and movies, and/or decorate the teen space in the library. Snacks are always provided at the meetings!

Books and Beans

Wednesday, December 7 from 6-8pm

Celebrate “Read A New Book Month” by joining us for some delicious coffee and a good book. If you have a book you would like to recommend, please bring the title, author and short description to share with the group.

Anime Club

Wednesday, December 14 from 6-8pm

For ages 13–18, meetings are open to dedicated fans of Anime and Manga, as well as beginners. The meetings are free and include previews of Anime, Manga, J-Pop music, snacks, fan art and fan fiction sharing by teens.

Winter Break KICK-OFF Party

w/ local Athens band WEREWOLVES performing at 9PM!

Wednesday, December 21 from 7PM – 12AM

For ages 11-18, start your winter break off at the library! We will have a pizza party, swap books, do a scavenger hunt (with prizes!), watch our favorite YouTube videos, hold a TALENT SHOW (with more prizes!) and hear local Athens pop/punk/folk band, WEREWOLVES, perform at 9PM!

*In order to attend this event, you must have a parent or guardian fill out a permission form located behind the front desk at Oconee County Library.

Winter Holiday Celebrations from Around the World

Wednesday, December 28 from 6-8pm

It’s called the HOLIDAY SEASON for a reason! Come learn about holiday cultures such as Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah and more. Holiday inspired treats will be served while we learn and do crafts.

November Events

2011-11-05T14:18:00.005-04:00

Thanksgiving Movie: Pieces of April

Wednesday, November 2 from 6-8pm// A wayward daughter invites her dying mother and the rest of her estranged family to her apartment for Thanksgiving dinner. PG-13.

Teen Advisory Board Meeting

Monday, November 7 from 7-8pm // Teen Advisory Board is a volunteer group of teens that meet once a month. Members make book suggestions for the library, help plan teen programs such as the Haunted House and other exciting upcoming events, and assist with cutting, folding, assembling and other projects. We will discuss what's popular in teen books, magazines, music, and movies, and decorate the teen space in the library. Snacks are always provided at the meetings!

Anime Club

Wednesday, November 9 from 6-8pm // For ages 13–18, meetings are open to dedicated fans of Anime and Manga, as well as beginners. The meetings are free and include previews of Anime, Manga, J-Pop music, snacks, fan art and fan fiction sharing by teens.

Breaking Dawn Release Party

Wednesday, November 16 from 6-8pm // Come make a Twilight T-shirt and watch ECLIPSE (PG-13) just hours before BREAKING DAWN hits theaters. Snacks provided.

Thanksgiving Treats and Board Games

Monday, November 21 from 6-8pm // Play board games such as monopoly, scrabble, checkers and more while snacking on yummy Thanksgiving treats.

Gingerbread Workshop

Wednesday, November 30 from 6-8pm // Get ready for the winter holidays by making a gingerbread house! We will also be decorating gingerbread cookie ornaments.

October Events

2011-09-28T20:29:00.006-04:00

Fall Treats

Wednesday, October 5from 6-7PM

Start the season off right and enjoy everyone’s favorite fall treats at the library! Make your own Candied Apples with delicious toppings such as caramel, M&M’s, Oreos, nuts and more. Served with Hot Apple Cider, yum!

Teen Advisory Board

Monday, October 10 from 7-8PM

Murder Mystery Dinner

Wednesday, October 12 from 6-8PM

The ultimate who done it! Help us find the killer in a thrilling round of clue while munching on spaghetti.

Anime Club

Wednesday, October 19 from 6-8PM

Haunted House TEEN Volunteer Nights

Monday, October 24^th from 4-8PM

Tuesday, October 25^th from 4-8PM

Wednesday, October 26^th from 4-8PM

Thursday, October 27^th from 4-8PM

The Young Adult staff is looking for volunteers, ages 11-17. We will be watching scary movies all week while we work on various Haunted House projects. Come help! For further information, please contact us at (706)769-3950, oconeelibrary@gmail.com or just show up!

The Alice in Wonderland Haunted House

Friday, October 28 from 6-9PM

The 4^th Annual Haunted House is a production created and run by teens for families in Oconee County and we’re excited to announce that this year’s theme is Alice in Wonderland! All ages! Children under eleven must be accompanied by an adult.

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

2011-09-01T16:43:00.002-04:00

Teen Iron Chef

Wednesday, September 14 at 6-7pm

Two teams. One basket. Who will win? Teens will compete on teams to create dishes with a SECRET ingredient. A judges’ panel will decide the wining team and there will be a food tasting directly following the event.

Teen Advisory Board

Monday, September 19 at 7-8pm

Anime Club

Wednesday, September 21 at 7-8pm

Stop by for our fist Anime Club meeting EVER! We will discuss all things anime and snack on ramen. Yum!

Reader’s Theater

Wednesday, September 28 at 6-8pm

Do you like acting? Join us for Reader’s Theater, we will read through a script and use props to make the story come to life. Afterwards, we will make a craft based on the play.

AUGUST EVENTS

2011-07-31T15:40:00.006-04:00

End of YA Summer Reading ICE CREAM Party!

Monday, August 1, 6:00-8:00PM

Celebrate the end of summer with a delicious Ice Cream Party with flavors and toppings galore!

Board Game Extravaganza!

Wednesday, August 17, 6:00-8:00PM

Board games for bored teens. Test your skills with Apples to Apples, RISK, Monopoly, Scrabble, and more.

Teen Movie Night

Wednesday, August 31, 6:00-8:00PM

Freedom Writers, starring Hillary Swank and Patrick Dempsey, is a movie about how a young teacher inspires her class of at-risk students to learn tolerance, apply themselves, and pursue education beyond high school. PG-13

JULY EVENTS

2011-07-02T15:12:00.016-04:00

International Film Series

Thursdays, July 7,14,21,28 @ 6:00-8:00 PM

Watch a movie that features cultures from around the world. The young adult staff will select a movie each week that highlights various cultures for teens to enjoy. Popcorn and drinks provided! Some movies may be rated PG-13.

International Cuisine Class-JAPAN!

Wednesday, July 6 @ 6:00-7:00 PM

Learn how to create a simple dish from Japan! The best part is, once the cooking is finished, you get to eat it! NOM, NOM, NOM!

Make Your Own Felt Mascots

Tuesday, July 12 @ 6:00-8:00 PM

Make a tiny Japanese inspired character out of felt to clip on your bag or give them as a gift.

International Cuisine Class- Spain

Tuesday, July 19 @ 6:00-7:00 PM

Learn how to create a simple dish from Spain! The best part is, once the cooking is finished, you get to eat it! NOM, NOM, NOM!

Touring with EUREKA CALIFORNIA

Monday, July 25 @ 6:00-8:00 PM

Live Music, stories from tour and pizza party with EUREKA CALIFORNIA!

"Eureka California is a local indie band influenced by American indie that sounds like British indie influenced by American indie. Also, it rocks." -Flagpole

June Events

2011-06-07T13:58:00.007-04:00

International Film Series

Thursdays, June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 6:00-8:00 PM

Henna Body Art

Monday, June 6, 6:00-8:00 PM

Create beautiful body art to showoff this summer. Discover traditional designs or create your own!

Beaded Bracelets

Tuesday, June 14, 6:00-8:00 PM

Create a unique South African style beaded

bracelet to wear all summer long!

International Cuisine Classes-INDIA!

Monday, June 20, 6:00-7:00 PM

Learn how to create a simple dish from India! The best part is, once the cooking is finished, you get to eat it! NOM, NOM, NOM!

Game On! Wii Gaming Night

Wednesday, June 29, 6:00-8:00 PM

Wii gaming at the Library! Snacks provided

May Events

2011-05-01T14:13:00.009-04:00

Cinco de Mayo

Thursday, May 5, 6:00-8:00 PM

Help us celebrate this Mexican holiday at the library. We are having traditional Mexican food, games and a piñata!

Finals Cram Sessions

May 16-19, 4:00-9:00 PM

Need a place to study for exams? Try the library! We have closed off designated areas for silent studying and group work. The library will have snacks and drinks ready for high school students who study for finals at the library.

Cowboys v. Ninjas Showdown

Summer Reading Program Kick-off Party

Saturday, May 21, 3:00-5:00PM

Get ready for an all out, ultimate water battle with Cowboys v. Ninjas. Team Ninja will be armed with water balloons and the Cowboys defend their honor with water guns. Let the games Begin!

Be in the know! At this event we will discuss all the important Teen Summer Reading Program 2011 information.

Batik T-Shirts

Tuesday, May 24, 6:00-8:00 PM

Sign-up at the front desk!

Create your own unique t-shirt by using the Batik fabric dying method. We will supply the shirts and dye, you bring the creativity.

International Film Series

Thursday, May 26, 6:00-8:00 PM

International Cuisine Class-ITALY!

Tuesday, May 31, 6:00-7:00 PM

Learn how to create a simple dish from Italy! The best part is, once the cooking is finished, you get to eat it! NOM, NOM, NOM!

April Events

2011-03-31T19:08:00.002-04:00

Jelly Bean Architecture on April 5^th @ 6-8PM

Jelly Bean Architecture: Work together to create one of the 7 wonders of the world (we will vote on which one) and it will be feature in the Young Adult section of the library until Jelly Bean day.

Anime Movie Night on April 14^th @ 6-8PM

Anime Night! Movie, snacks and discussion. Need we say more?

Create Your Own Book Safe on April 21^st @ 6-8PM

Book Safe Event: Reuse unwanted books by creating your very own book safe!

SIGN-UP REQUIRED!

Resume Workshop on April 26^th @6-8PM

Summer Job Resume: Get a head start looking for a summer job at this resume workshop.

Ages 14 - 18 Only!

March Events

2011-02-24T15:22:00.004-05:00

Movie Night: Sorcerers Apprentice

March 3^rd @ 6 – 8PM

Balthazar Blake is a master sorcerer in modern-day Manhattan trying to defend the city from his arch-nemesis, Maxim Horvath. Balthazar can't do it alone, so he recruits Dave Stutler, a seemingly average guy who demonstrates hidden potential, as his reluctant protégé.

Mardi Gras

March 8^th @ 6-8PM

Celebrate the kick off of Mardi Gras by making your own masks and eating a tradition King Cake. If you don’t know what this is… let’s just say there is luck and a cake involved.

World Poetry Day

March 21^st @ 6-8PM

Read your favorite poem, read a poem you wrote or share a song that started out as a poem! We will also accept visual poetry for any photographers out there with an eye for poetry. Coffee and snacks provided!

Un-birthday party

March 30^th @ 6PM

It’s NOT your birthday but let’s celebrate anyway! The Un-birthday event from Alice in Wonderland will feature classic birthday party games such as pin the tail on the donkey and a gigantic birthday cake complete with candles! Don’t forget to make a wish!

February Events

2011-01-31T15:04:00.004-05:00

College Night

February 1^st @ 6PM

Find out everything you need to know about college. The UGA Associate Dean and a current University of Georgia student will be here to field your questions about one of the most important and fun experiences in life-COLLEGE!

Greek Culture and Percy Jackson

February 10^th @ 6-8PM

Percy Jackson trivia, mythology and Greek food all rolled together into one greektastic Percy Jackson experience.

Library Lovers

February 14^th @ 6-8PM

Don’t have a date? Sure you do! This is library lovers month and if you love the library then you have yourself a date.

Game on! Wii Galore!

February 23^rd @ 6-8PM

This event is all about having fun at the library. We are bringing out the wii for fun and tournaments.

January Events

2010-12-21T14:13:00.008-05:00

Cookies for Heroes! Teens Making A Difference in the Community

January 6^th at 6-8PM

Young Adults will decorate cookies to give THANKS to our local Oconee County Fire Department. At the event, we will talk about the many different ways Young Adults can make a difference in their community.

Library Scavenger Hunt

NEW DATE: January 22 at 6-7PM

After the library closes to the public, the Young Adult staff will stick around late to host a library wide scavenger hunt. Prizes will be given to the top three winners!

Anime Night

January 18^th at 6-8PM

Come watch an Anime movies with us. Popcorn and drinks provided!

Youtube Video Creation

January 29^th @ 3-6PM and sign-up IS required!

Permission forms must be filled out by parent for participation.

Have you ever wanted to star in your very own Youtube video? Well, now’s your chance! We will spend three hours brainstorming, writing, directing and acting out a film to be posted on Youtube. Who knows? It might be the next Youtube sensation!

2010-12-01T13:04:00.002-05:00

Make Your Own Wrapping Paper

December 8th @ 6-8 PM

Want to impress friends and family with fancy wrapping paper? Come make your own with us. You can select your decorations and colors!

Ugly Sweater Holiday Party

December 16th@ 6-8 PM

This year’s holiday party will host several winter themed party games and an ugly holiday/winter sweater competition! Seasonal themes snacks, drinks, and music will be provided!

Movie Night! A Christmas Carol (2009)

December 20th @ 6-8 PM

The library is showing the latest version of an old favorite... A Christmas Carol starring Jim Carey.

November Events

2010-11-01T18:00:00.001-04:00

Harry Potter Movie Month!

We will be showing all available Harry Potter movies through out the month of November leading up to the theater release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II. All movies start at 6PM. See dates for more information. The final movie is FAMILY NIGHT and every age is encouraged to attend.

November 2^nd : Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s stone

November 4^th : Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

November 9^th : Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

November 10^th : Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

November 16^th : Harry Potter and the order of the Phoenix

November 18^th : FAMILY NIGHT! Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince

Thanksgiving Celebration!

November 22^nd : 6-8PM

You will have plenty to be thankful for at our Thanksgiving celebration. We will have Thanksgiving inspired foods, crafts and plenty of board games to go around!

Super Smash Brothers Tournament: GAME ON!

November 30^th : 6-8PM

Come show off your sweet gaming skills at out Super Smash Brothers Tournament. Treats provided!

October Events

2010-10-01T15:56:00.007-04:00

Candied Apples

October 5, 2010 from 6-7 PM

Enjoy everyone’s favorite fall treat, candied apples. They are the perfect way to start the season off right!

Fright Night

October 13, 2010 from 6-8 PM

If you are easily scared then STAY HOME! We will watch a scary movie and eat delicious Halloween inspired snacks.

“Books with Beat” Concert featuring Eureka California Live!

October 21, 2010 from 7-8 PM

"Eureka California is a local indie band influenced by American indie that sounds like British indie influenced by American indie. Also, it rocks." - Flagpole

Come and enjoy the Athens band FREE at the library.

A Grimm Brother’s Fairy Tale themed Haunted House

October 29, 2010 from 6 -9 PM

Experience our library’s third annual haunted house; it’s going to be the scariest year ever!

Happy Halloween!!

2010-08-30T16:02:00.003-04:00

September Events

Resume Workshop
Thursday, September 9th from7:30-8:30 PM
Ages 14-18 only.
You will learn how to create an effective resume and learn essential interviewing techniques. Register today!

Game On! Dance Dance Revolution
Thursday, September 16th from 6-8PM
Come by for open play on the Wii. Now’s the time to practice your mad dancing skills!

Pizza and Pages
Monday, September 20th from 6-8PM
Take a bite out of a good book! Just bring your favorite book or the one you're currently reading and you're ready to party. Drinks and pizza are provided.

2010-08-02T17:48:00.004-04:00

Cupcake Day!
August 18th, 2010 6-7PM
Come decorate cupcakes with us! We will allow each participant to enjoy one cupcake and will distribute the rest to our wonderful and hardworking staff along with a card personally signed by our youth. It is a fun and SWEET way to say thanks!

Celebrate Friendship
August 24th, 2010 6-8PM
How well do you know your friends? Bring a friend with you to the library to find out! At this event we will be making friendship bracelets and playing a fun game to find out the stuff you never knew!

Library Campout
August 30th, 2010 6-8PM
In celebration of National Toasted Marshmallow Day (YES, it is a REAL Holiday!), we will be watching the camp movie “Heavyweights” and eating yummy gooey s’mores. Don’t forget to bring your favorite blanket!

2010-07-01T17:25:00.003-04:00

Thursday Theater
Every Thursday of the month, the YA program will be watching random movies, new and older, from 6-8PM. Drinks and popcorn provided. The LAST Thursday Theater is scheduled for a July 29^th screening of AVATAR!

Plastic Bag Fashion Show

Tuesday July 6^th, 6-8 PM

We will be handing over plastic bags, duct tape and markers and in return, we expect to see some HIGH fashion. And don’t forget, the paparazzi will be present!

Design Your Own Video Game

Saturday July 10^th, 3-5 PM

Back by popular demand! Call or visit the front desk to register. Only Eight Spaces Available!

Henna Night

Wednesday July 14^th, 6-8 PM

We will be creating (and WEARING!) Henna designs using our summer reading theme, “Making Waves.” Nothing better than a wave tattoo to show off in a tank or bathing suit for the summer!

Tie-Dyed Beach Towels

Monday July 19^th, 6-8 PM

Make a UNIQUE towel to use at the beach or pool. YOU SUPPLY THE TOWEL and we will have everything else!

End of Summer BEACH Bash

Wednesday July 28^th, 5-7 PM

We will be making Hawaiian inspired foods to celebrate the end of the summer reading programs for Young Adults. But be prepared to get wet because this event will end with a water gun fight!

JUNE

2010-06-02T17:17:00.004-04:00

Thursday Theater
Every Thursday of the month, the YA program will be watching random movies, new and older, from 6-8PM. Drinks and popcorn provided.

Design Your Own Video Game
Monday June 7th, 6-8PM
Come and make your own video game at the library. Create your own characters and maps. Meet us in the computer lab near the YA section.

Edible Art
Wednesday June 9th 7-8PM
Do you love candy? We do! In honor of National Candy Month, we are making art out of candy. The best part is you can eat it later.

Recycled Materials Art Contest
Tuesday June 22nd, 6-8PM
This contest is for teens to create art out of recycled materials. Patrons will be able to vote on their favorite and the winner will receive a prize! We will supply the materials- all you need to bring is some inspiration!

Food Fear Factor
Wednesday June 30th, 5-7PM
This contest will test how far you will go (and what you will eat) to be deemed the winner.

WEEKLY PRIZE DRAWING
Complete a book review and enter to win our weekly drawing. The prize is a $10 gift certificate to Barnes and Noble!

Catch A Wave This Summer!

2010-04-28T17:34:00.011-04:00

Hi all! Just wanted to give everyone the 411 on the upcoming events in May and talk about the Summer Reading Program (SRP) we're hosting this year. I promise you, you will not want to miss out! Anyway, a little info. you're gonna need for this year's participation is this: you NEED to come to the kickoff party. It's going to be awesome & that's when you're going to get the materials you need to have an amazing summer. On that amazing day you will receive a reading log sheet (which you can use to get prizes), a book review form (which you can use to get prizes through our weekly drawing), and the official SRP program brochure (which will tell you of upcoming events where you can win prizes)! As I said, you WILL NOT want to miss out this summer!

Henna Night
May 5th @ 6-8 (Auditorium)
Want a tattoo and can't wait until you turn 18? Try henna! It's all-natural, easy to apply, and remains on your skin for up to 3 weeks! Tattoo designs will be provided.

Books & Bites
May 11th @ 5-7 pm (Aud.)
Take a bite out of a good book (and some good food)! Just bring your favorite book or the one you're currently reading, a pillow or two, and a blanket and you're ready to party. Drinks and food are provided.

Summer Ready Kick-Off Party: Pirate Wars!
May 20th @ 5-7 pm

Before everyone runs off to enjoy their summer, we're doing Pirate Wars! Design and decorate your team's ship and flag, collect the "booty", eliminate your foes with black cannon ball water balloons, and win the treasure chest! Win prizes at our pirate costume contest! Also, this is the day where you can register and pick up all the goodies you'll need to participate in the SRP this summer!

Thursday Theater
May 27th @ 6-8:30 pm (ESP)
Starting May 27th, the YA program will be running random movies, new and older, every Thursday night from 6-8:30 pm. Drinks and treats are provided.

It's That Time of Year Again!

2010-03-28T15:27:00.009-04:00

I hope everyone's enjoying their spring so far. :) And we hope that you'll keep enjoying it while you're at the great events we have planned for April!

Dying to Dye Eggs
April 1st @ 6:30-7:30 pm (Aud.)
No, guys, we're not kidding. We really are going to dye eggs! Think of it as...a tie-dying creation that you can eat. lol. Supplies are provided. (Word of advice: wear grungy, old clothes just in case you get any dye on you)

Movie Night: Sherlock Holmes
April 7th @ 6-8:30 pm (Aud.)
Come and join us when we watch the gorgeous Rachel McAdams, heartthrob Robert Downey Jr., and trusty sidekick Jude Law in this action packed movie that is sure to have you begging for the sequel. Refreshments are provided.

Earth Day Celebration! April 22nd @ 6:30-7:30 pm (ESP)
This year we're going to show that we care about Mother Nature and show our appreciation by planting some flowers! The best part: we're going to customize some flower pots and take those flowers hope to share with the family. Supplies are provided.

Anime Night @ Your Library
April 27th @ 6-8:30 pm (ESP)
Teens have been begging for another Anime Night so here it is folks! The movie: undecided, so let us know what you'd like to watch. We love suggestions! Refreshments are provided.

March's YA Events!

2010-02-23T19:04:00.006-05:00

Writers Club
March 3rd @ 6-7 pm (Glass Room)
Come join our club where we can support each other and share your work. If you are interested, send in a piece of your work to the YA email: oconeelibrary@gmail.com or check out the blog for more information: http://oconeewriters.blogsport.com. Refreshments are provided.

Pi Day
March 11th @ 6-8 pm (ESP)
We're going to celebrate this mathematical term and Einstein with a pizza pie party! Refreshments and pizza are provided. As always, all of our programs are free.

St. Pat's Tie Dyed T-Shirts
March 15th @ 5:30-7:30 pm (Aud.)
No one likes getting pinched because they're not wearing green on St. Patrick's Day so we'll be making green tie-dyed t-shirts! All supplies are provided. Registration is required for this event (inquire at either the circulation desk or YA).

Mustache March
March 23rd @ 6-7 pm (ESP)
We'll be making our own mustache paraphernalia and taking some hilarious pictures for our Facebook and blog page. Mustache-phobic foods will be served (powdered doughnuts, mustache cookies, etc.) and supplies are provided.

...In the Air!

2010-01-31T14:55:00.004-05:00

Hello all you lovers (that is, BOOK lovers)! Hope you all had a great MLK day and winter break. Now to continue on with the rest of the year! Here's the upcoming events for February. Enjoy!

Writers Club
Feb. 3rd @ 6-7 pm (Glass Room)
Come join our club where we can support each other and share your work. If you are interested, send in a piece of your work to the YA email: oconeelibrary@gmail.com or check out the blog for more information: http://oconeewriters.blogspot.com. Refreshments are provided.

V-Day Sweets
Feb. 11th @ 6:30-8 pm (Aud.)
Make some sweet treats for your valentine, family members, or anyone else that you'd like to show love to (including yourself)! Supplies provided, along with some refreshments!

Broken Hearts Club
Feb. 16th @ 6-8 pm (Aud.) This club is for those of us that may not be feeling the love this Valentine's Day. Come and join your fellow broken hearts for a sappy movie, some junk food, and a certain special craft....heart shaped pin cushions (decorate for individual use. haha). Refreshments are provided.

Anime Night
Feb. 24th @ 6-8 pm (Aud.)
Come out and join us for a great anime movie, discussion, and popcorn! If you have any suggestions for the movie pick, drop by the YA desk or leave a comment in our Suggestion Jar (on the table under the event bulletin boards).

As always, the events are free and open to teens ages 11-18. Don't hesitate to come. We're noisy and loud, but we don't bite. ;)

January Events!

2009-12-21T18:57:00.005-05:00

Hello all! Once again, it's time for the monthly update of events. Yaaaaaaay! January is going to be an AMAZING month. Check out the events and you be the judge.

Karaoke Night
Jan. 6th @ 6:30-8 p.m. (Auditorium)
Like singing? Training for the next American Idol? Come show off your mad skills at Karaoke Night! Refreshments to quench your thrist and snacks to keep you going will be provided.

Writers Club
Jan. 12th @ 6-7 p.m. (Glass Room)
Come join our club where we can support each other and share your work. If you are interested, send in a piece of your work to the YA email: oconeelibrary@gmail.com or check out the blog for more information: http://oconeewriters.blogspot.com. Refreshments are provided.

Duct Tape Madness
Jan. 20th @ 6-8 p.m. (Auditorium)
Come and make everything you can imagine out of duct tape. There may even be "wall tapings". How long would you stay taped to a wall? ;)

Henna Night
Jan. 26th @ 6-7 (Auditorium)
Want a tattoo and can't wait until you turn 18? Try henna! It's all-natural, easy to apply, and remains on your skin for up to 3 weeks! Refreshments will be provided. Come with tattoo ideas!

Board Game Night
Jan. 28th @ 6-8 p.m. (Auditorium)
Miss the old games you used to play? Or just need a break from video games? Come and play a number of different board games including monopoly, checkers, and Jumanji!

As always, all of our events are free, fun, and open to teens ages 11-18. Registration is only required when stated.

A HUGE Shout-out!

2009-12-20T14:30:00.003-05:00

The YA Department would like to give a HUGE shout-out to the amazing, anonymous donator of 100 (yes, I repeat 100!!!!) graphic novels to our collection! Thank you SOOOO much! Please come by the YA desk so that we can show our appreciation!

A Season for Giving!

2009-11-24T18:34:00.006-05:00

Hello folks! Once again, Christmas is just around the corner and we've been pretty busy setting up YA events for you guys. Keep reading and see what we're doing this month!

Writers Club
Dec. 2nd @ 6-7 pm (Glass Room)
This club is for all those authors out there that might need a little help with editing, ideas, constructive criticism, etc. We will meet every month as long as you guys keep coming. All you have to do is get a little bit of that creativity onto paper (or, in this case, the computer screen) and submit it to the YA email for distribution (oconeelibrary@gmail.com). For example, if you're writing a short story, maybe submit a chapter. Or if you're into poetry, submit a poem. You get the idea. Refreshments provided!

Christmas Movie Night
Dec. 8th @ 6-8 pm (Auditorium)
Christmas is a time for family, friends, and all those corny Christmas movies that we love so much! So come and join us for a Christmas movie that is sure to have you in the holiday spirit...and guaranteed to make you laugh! Refreshments are provided.

Presents for Pets
Dec. 17th @ 5-6:30 pm (Auditorium)
This year Teen Scene is praising cats and dogs! To get in the holiday spirit and get out into the community, the YA group is hosting Presents for Pets. We're teaming up with local animal shelters and rescues to provide our furry friends with homemade felt stocking, "recycled" toys, and our very own brand of treats. Donate your time and creativity to a human's most faithful friend this Christmas and experience the joy that can only come with giving to others.

The Month of Turkey Eating!

2009-11-02T19:02:00.005-05:00

Hello all! This month we're cramming in a bunch of fun before all of us stuff our faces with Thanksgiving feasts. As always, everything we host is free, fun, and geared to you teens!

Nov. 6th @ 7-8:30 pm (Aud.)-- Books & Bites!
Take a bite out of a good book (and some pizza) at this event! Just bring your favorite book or the one you're currently reading, a pillow or two, and a blanket and you're ready to party. Drinks and food is provided.

Nov. 11th @ 6:30-8:30 pm (Aud.)-- Dance Dance Revolution!
Show off your mad dancing skills! Do you have what it takes to be the Dance Champion? Compare your moves to your opponent's and see! Refreshments provided and maybe a prize or two for the winner. ;)

Nov. 17th @ 6-8:30 pm (Aud.)--Twilight Prom!
Do you love Twilight? What team are you on? Make a t-shirt, sport your team, and get ready for the ultimate werewolf/vampire smackdown! Refreshments provided.

Nov. 23rd @ 6-8 pm (Aud.)--Movie Night!
Do you believe in conspiracy? What about aliens in your attic?! The kids in this movie have no choice but to believe when these not so cute or cuddly aliens take over their attic! Join the fun. Refreshments provided.

Get Ready for Our October Events!

2009-09-12T15:47:00.011-04:00

September is the month that students get back in the swing of things with school, friends, and especially homework. But what about October...? Get ready because it's time for the fun to REALLY start! (As always, events are fun, FREE, and full of surprises!)

Oct. 6th: Video Game Night @ 6-8 p.m. (Auditorium) Prepare yourself for a super smack down! Will you be the new Champion of Super Smash Brothers? Come and test your skills. Snacks & drinks included.

Oct. 15th: Writers Club @ 6-7 p.m. (Glass Room) Come one, come all! Anyone interested in writing poetry, short stories, novels, or anything is welcome at this meeting. We'll be talking about the different genres and our personal favorites. Bring your own work or an excerpt/passage by your favorite author to share. Snacks and drinks provided.

Oct. 19th: Author's Visit & Workshop @ 4 p.m. Donny Seagraves, author of the new juvenile book Gone From These Woods, will be visiting our library! Program includes a writing workshop, Author's Tips, and much more! This event is for grades 4-12. Don't forget to reserve your copy of this suspenseful book today! Also, copies of the novel will be available for sale & autographs.

Oct. 24th: B.Y.O.P. Pumpkin Carving! @ 3-4 p.m. Start the holiday off right with a scary, funny, or just goofy carved pumpkin! Tools provided, just bring your own pumpkin.

Oct. 30th: Haunted House @ 6:30-8:30 p.m. (Auditorium) The event you've all been waiting for is new, improved, and back this holiday season! Come chase ghouls and howl with the creatures of the night! Be there and be SCARED!

Whatever you're interests, wherever you're from, don't worry! Teen Scene has something for everyone! Or if you have a suggestion, drop a line down by the teen desk at Oconee Co. Library.

The 411 on September's Events!

2009-08-15T15:35:00.007-04:00

Hi everyone! Just wanted to let you all know what's gonna happen next month in the way of awesome teen events. Everyone's welcome and it's free, fun, and full of snacks!

Sept. 1st: Origami Night @ 6-7 p.m. (ESP Room)

We'll be learning how to fold and roll our way into this art form.
Be there or be square!

Sept. 8th: 1st International Book Club Meeting @ 6-7 p.m. (Auditorium)
This is a NEW book club that will discuss the lives, cultures, and adventures of people from all over the world in fiction form! Each month there will be a book list for a different country or continent. Come and join us at the meeting. Snacks and drinks included, along with the occasional dish from the Club's country! This month's region is Asia!

Sept. 14th: T.A.B. Meeting @ 7-8 p.m. (Study Room)
We invite all T.A.B. members that can make it to participate in this meeting. Applications for T.A.B. (Teen Advisory Board) are available at the Teen desk.

Sept. 22nd: Anime Night @ 6-8 p.m. (Auditorium)
Back by popular demand is the ANIME NIGHT! Join us for a movie, snacks, and a whole lot of anime!

Whatever you're interests, wherever you're from, don't worry! Teen Scene has something for everyone! Or if you have a suggestion, drop a line down by the teen desk at Oconee Co. Library.

2009-06-08T19:45:00.004-04:00

Summer Reading Program has officially begun!

For those of you who were not able to make it to the Summer Kick Off Party on May 31st, there is some vital information you need to know!

We have THREE different ways for you to win prizes this summer:

1) Pick up a Teen Scene Reading Log at the front desk and keep track of ten books you get this summer. When you are all done, turn it in and you get to pick out a free book!

2) Enter our Weekly Drawing, each week you could win! All you have to do is read a book, fill out an entry form located in the YA section on the round table, and then every Monday we will pick a winner!

3) Come to YA events, we have some great prizes to give away at each of our events so make sure to check them out!

Here are the events we will have going on the rest of the summer:

JUNE

Tie Dye T Shirts
Saturday June 13th 2-3:30 PM
Make a tie dye shirt to wear to summer events! All you have to do is bring a white shirt and we take care of the rest!

Books and Bites
Friday, June 19th 8-9:30 PM
The library will be open only for the teens who come to this event! Bring your favorite pillow, sleeping bag, or bean bag chair and pick a spot to read in the library with your friends! After a little reading, we will have a lot of snacks!

Duct Tape Madness
Tuesday, June 23rd 5:30-7 PM
Come make a duct tape wallet, cell phone cover, or anything you can think up (as long as it involves duct tape)!

JULY

Hide and Seek at the Library
Friday, July 10th 7-8:30 PM
Play hide and seek at the library AFTER it closes!

Harry Potter Trivia
Tuesday, July 14th 6-7 PM
We will be giving the winner tickets to "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince"!

Inkheart Movie
Tuesday, July 21st 6-8 PM
Popcorn and soda provided!

Summer Wrap Up Party
Saturday July 25th
Our Grand Prize winner of the Rubber Duckie contest will be announced!

Poetry Night

2009-04-27T17:33:00.002-04:00

We will be having a Poetry /Coffeehouse Night this Thursday on April 30th, 2009. You can bring your own original poem to read or you can read one of your favorite poems by another poet to share with everyone!

Hot chocolate, delicious coffeehouse snacks, and a night full of poetry--what else could you ask for on a Thursday night?

Come on out and read your poetry! We will be starting at 7 PM!

See you there!

Book Discussion

2009-04-11T16:57:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone!

We have a BOOK DISCUSSION coming up on Tuesday April 21. The book is called "And Then There Were None" by Agatha Christie. It is a great murder mystery and it is hard to put down once you start reading! Basically, the story takes place on a mysterious island where eight strangers have been invited to stay. One by one, they begin to die in mysterious ways.

See if you can figure out who the murderer is! "And Then There Were None" is also used in many of your literature classes, so reading it now would be a great way to get a head start on English class!

We will of course have food and drinks there so come join us!

Movie Tuesday...The Goonies

2009-04-06T16:21:00.004-04:00

Hi Everyone,

We know it has been a while but we are going to start posting our events and ideas up here for you all to comment on. Please feel free to post with your ideas for things you would like to do at the library or books you would like to see in the Young Adult section. We want to hear what you have to say!

This Tuesday, April 7, we are showing a movie at 6 PM. This week's movie is THE GOONIES and it is a great comedy, so come over to the library ready to laugh! It will last about 2 hours and we have all kinds of great snacks for you to munch on! Feel free to grab the bean bags from the young adult section, too! See you Tuesday!

HOLIDAY PARTY!

2008-12-10T19:16:00.004-05:00

Tuesday, December 16th
5-8 pm

Come decorate sugar cookies and watch the movie Elf, starring Will Ferrell! Don't forget to wear your ugliest holiday sweater!

Click this link to watch the trailer for Elf:
http://www.elfmovie.com/flash/trailer_large.html

Duct Tape Madness Pictures!

2008-11-28T12:31:00.007-05:00

Here are some of the pictures from the Duct Tape Madness night we held this month. Thanks to everyone for coming out and being so creative!

Video Game Day at the library!

2008-11-24T15:54:00.003-05:00

Video Game Day is:
Saturday, December 13th, 3-5pm

This month we're playing:
KATAMARI DAMACY!

Come play your friends in this wacky, Japanese Playstation2 game.

ANIME TUESDAY!!

2008-11-24T15:42:00.013-05:00

For this month's Anime Tuesday, we're showing:
Ouran High School Host Club

Tuesday, December 2nd, 6-8 pm
Come to the show and eat free pizza!

GUITAR HERO TOURNAMENT THIS SATURDAY!

2008-11-03T19:30:00.007-05:00

TEEN SCENE OCONEE CHALLENGES YOU TO A GUITAR HERO TOURNAMENT

SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 8TH
2:00-5:00 PM

IN THE LIBRARY AUDITORIUM FOR FREE!

THERE WILL BE SNACKS AND GREAT PRIZES.
SEE YOU THERE!

Haunted House!

2008-10-28T17:25:00.003-04:00

The Library Auditorium will be haunted from 6:30-9:00pm

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30th

Come if you dare!

Ages 11+ only. FREE!

PUMPKIN CARVING!

2008-10-13T18:40:00.003-04:00

Monday, October 27th 6-8PM

Come carve your Halloween Jack-O-Lantern at the library! Bring your own pumpkin and we'll bring all the carving supplies. Sign up ahead at the circulation desk!

2008-10-09T15:57:00.002-04:00

HOW TO DRAW MANGA!

Thursday, October 16th, 7:00-9:00 pm

Learn how to design your own manga character. All supplies provided. Sign up for this event at the circulation desk.

Anime Night: ROBOTECH

2008-09-27T14:15:00.002-04:00

Monday, September 29th, 6:00-9:00pm

Come watch our September pick: Robotech, episodes 1-3 of the Macross Saga! Here's a summary of this great series:

In the year 1999, an alien battle-fortress crashes on an island in the Pacific. Over the next ten years, mankind repairs and refits this fortress, using the advanced "robo-technology" found aboard it to create fighter planes that can transform into giant robots. As soon as the repaired fortress is ready for launch, the aliens to whom it belongs finally discover its location. Thus begins a series of wars that will devastate the planet earth.

Written by Christopher E. Meadows (cmeadows@nyx.cs.du.edu)

We'll also be serving drinks and snacks. Everything is free and open to ages 11-18. Hope to see you there!

Board Game Night!

2008-09-06T17:35:00.003-04:00

Join us Tuesday, September 16th from 5:30-8:00 pm for a night of fun and games! We'll have a lots of games for everyone to use. We will also be serving delicious snacks and drinks. Please don't hesitate to bring your favorite games.

The cost? Totally FREE! Open to teens ages 11 to 13.

Origami Success!

2008-09-06T17:31:00.003-04:00

Thanks everyone who came to make origami!

Origami class this Thursday!

2008-09-02T13:27:00.002-04:00

Learn the Japanese art of paper folding! We'll teach you how to unravel those tricky diagrams and make your own amazing origami. All supplies provided.

Thursday, Sept. 4th from 4:00-6:00pm.

The Oconee Teen Advisory Board is now accepting applications!

2008-08-31T16:33:00.004-04:00

The Teen Advisory Board wants you! Apply and help make the library a better place for you and the community. The board will meet monthly to plan programs, choose new materials, and eat delicious snacks. Members will also earn volunteer hours that can go on resumes and college applications!

Space is limited to eight teens, ages 13-18.

Pick up an application at the Circulation Desk of the library. All applications due by September 30th.

Altered Books: Part 2

2008-07-14T13:11:00.010-04:00

Okay, so Charly managed to finish her altered book after the program was over and brought it to the makeover program. I asked her if we could post some pictures of it, because it's beautiful!

Thanks Charly - and to think this started out as an old, beat-up, "throwaway" book!

Pictures from Makeover Program

2008-07-14T13:04:00.010-04:00

Hello girls! Here are some pictures from our makeup program - you all looked so gorgeous!

Thanks for coming - hope to see you guys at our end-of-summer party!

Next Event: Makeovers

2008-06-17T11:29:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone!
Our next event is a girls-only event (sorry, guys - we'll catch you at the Spiderman and Guitar Hero events). We will have a professional makeup consultant here to show you how to apply makeup correctly and experiment with color. Here is the info:

Saturday, June 28th, 2:00-4:00 PM (plan to be done before 4:00)
In the Glass Room (across from the front desk)

If you plan to come to this, please sign up ahead of time by either replying to this post, emailing us at oconeelibrary@gmail.com, signing the list at the front desk, or calling the library at 706-769-3950. We have a limited number of spots, and those who have signed up ahead of time have first dibs.
See you there, girls!

Book Review: Imaginary Enemy

2008-06-17T11:20:00.002-04:00

Hello all! We have a book review for you, sent to us by Rebecca Sue Nunez. We do have this book in our library if you'd like to come check it out!!

Imaginary Enemy by Julie Gonzalez

"The story is about Jane Venezuela White, a slacker teen who writes angry letters blaming certain events in her life on an imaginary enemy Bubba (short for Beelzebub the devils right hand man). The story is in chronological order starting at second grade and ending in eleventh. Its really about life, the universe, and everything, growing up, and learning to find and accept who you are. Plus romance. I wont forget the romance. Jane White thinks she's "plain jane" and does try every once in a while to stay out of the bully radar by fitting in. However, her next door neighbors are not normal at all. They're gifted students and have names relating to Music Theory. Jane is also a slacker which puts her in a different league from most teen diary fiction. She goes through what every normal teen goes through and discovers things as time goes by. And the neighbors play key figures - but I wont give anything away.For a 200+ paged book it wasn't too short nor was it too slow. However, it wasn't fast paced grab you by the seat of your pants and send you flying either. If you're into the whole "teen diary thing with a twist" (which I normally am not) and enjoy reading someone's life story then you'll like the book. I liked it well enough, it wasn't great, but it certainly was good."

Thanks, Rebecca! If anyone else has a review they'd like us to post, send it to oconeelibrary@gmail.com and we'll put it up!

Altered Books this Saturday!

2008-06-12T14:55:00.003-04:00

Hey guys! Just a reminder about our next event, coming up this Saturday (two days from now)!

Altered Books
Saturday, June 14th
2:30-4:30 PM, in the ESP room (the room to the left of the auditorium)

This is a craft workshop where we will be taking old hardback books and transforming them into works of art! You will learn how to make secret compartments inside a book, so that it can sit on your bookshelf but hold something more inside than just words.
We will also show you how to take an old book and transform it into a book you can use for something else - as a journal, a recipe book, or your own original story.
We'll provide all the materials, including the old books, but if you'd like to bring your own book, or any interesting art materials you'd like to use on it (pictures, stickers, paints) feel free to!

This is a really fun workshop, and we will have a special guest: Katie, our old YA coordinator! Hope to see you guys there!

Food Fear Factor

2008-06-07T17:03:00.007-04:00

We had a blast at Food Fear Factor! Every single person that entered tried at least one bit of everything - I was suprised at your bravery! Here are some pictures for those of you who didn't get a chance to come:

Our menu - Maggots and Flies, Toxic Waste (shown in picture), Dirty Diaper, Vomit, Clogged Toilet, Headless Fish, and Chocolate-Covered Crickets.

Our lovely chefs and waitresses.

Our restaurant customers waiting on their food.

Eating... yum!

Adam's artistic chocolate-covered crickets.

Our winner, showing what was perhaps her secret... covering your nose so you can't smell it before you eat it?

And our grande finale, a kitty litter cake, complete with poo!!

Thanks for coming, guys - it was interesting!

Laura

Food Fear Factor

2008-05-15T14:43:00.004-04:00

Save some room on Friday, May 30th for the YA Food Fear Factor contest! Bring an open mind (and stomach) for the "interesting" menu we have for the evening. What's in the Dirty Diaper Salad? Want to wash that down with a refreshing glass of Toxic Waste? Prizes await for those with enough intestinal fortitude!

The new YA coordinator will be there and might throw up at the first whiff of the menu (ok probably not).

-Adam

Next Event: Gilmore Girls Marathon!

2008-04-17T14:47:00.007-04:00

Keep your calendar clear for Friday, May 9th - we will be having a Gilmore Girls Marathon here, on the big screen, from 6-9 PM! This event is for mothers and daughters, sisters, girlfriends, neighbors - anyone that wants to come laugh along with our favorite mother-daughter pair, Lorelai and Rory.

If you have a favorite episode, please let us know and we'll try to play it! We will also be having a Gilmore Girls trivia contest, so come armed with useless knowledge and you might win a prize!

Hope to see you all there!

Laura and Katie

Quick Reminder!

2008-04-14T13:44:00.005-04:00

We will be having a Teen Friends meeting TOMORROW, from 5:30-6:30, in the glass room at the library. This will be to discuss ideas for the summer reading program, our new book order, and volunteering opportunities at the library. We will be serving plenty of pizza, so don't worry about dinner!

Pictures from "Totes and Tees"

2008-03-31T10:28:00.004-04:00

Upcoming April Events!

2008-03-30T17:08:00.007-04:00

Sunday, April 6, 3-5 PM
Movie Night: "School of Rock"
"In the words of AC/DC: We roll tonight... to the guitar bite... and for those about to rock... I salute you." Come watch "School of Rock" on our big screen. Munchies will be provided.

Tuesday, April 15, 5:30-6:30 PM
Teen Friends Meeting
Join us as we brainstorm future events, order new books, talk about the summer reading program, and eat lots of pizza!

Look for these events coming in May:
* Gilmore Girls marathon
* Kick-off of our Summer Reading Program: Food Fear Factor!

"Totes and Tees" Reminder

2008-03-25T12:15:00.003-04:00

Hey guys, just a quick reminder that we will be having "Totes and Tees" this Sunday (the 30th) from 2:30-4:00 PM. All you have to do is bring a t-shirt or tote bag (or other fabric item) that you would like to screen print, and we will provide all other materials. Don't miss out on this chance to design and create some custom clothing or accessories for yourself!
Laura

Anime Night

2008-03-19T15:40:00.005-04:00

For those of you who didn't make it to "Grave of the Fireflies" last night - you missed an amazing movie, one of the best anime movies I've seen so far working here. If you like historical fiction, especially war movies, you should check this out on your own sometime. However, be prepared for an intense experience - as posted on here before, this movie is a serious war drama.

Hope you guys have a great rest of the week, and we hope to see you at our next event on March 30th, "Totes and Tees!"

~ Laura

More Book Reviews - Scott Westerfeld's "Uglies" Trilogy

2008-03-10T12:12:00.008-04:00

Tally Youngblood is eagerly waiting for her 16th birthday, when she will finally turn "pretty," undergoing the operation everyone in society now has to make them physically perfect. However, right before it's her turn to go under the knife, she meets a particularly rebellious "ugly" named Shay. Suddenly, Tally is forced into making a decision between the beauty she's always longed for and the ability to make her own choices in life.

"Uglies" is set in a futuristic society where everything has changed. People ride on hoverboards instead of walking, and wear an "interface ring" that can report everything they do to the city government. Nobody is ever allowed to leave the city limits, and part of what Tally eventually discovers is why that is.

"Uglies" offers a look into what the price may be if a society places too much emphasis on physical appearance and reaching a standard of perfection.

**********************************************

"Pretties" continues the trilogy, following Tally's story after she has been made "pretty." She is having a blast in "New Pretty Town," partying and getting everything she wants without ever working for it. As a member of the "Crims" clique, she automatically has the respect and awe of many of her fellow pretties.

Tally has only vague memories of her life before the surgery, of escaping from the city and making plans to thwart the system. As the book progresses, her memories begin to return little by little, until she realizes that the city she lives in might not be as "pretty" as place as it originally seemed.

"Pretties" reveals even more about the society Tally and her friends live in, of what may lie beyond the city limits and "out there" in the wild.

**********************************************

"Specials" is the final book in the trilogy. As the book opens, Tally has awakened from yet another surgery to realize that she has been made into one of the most feared creatures in the city - a "special." Her bones are now made of nearly unbreakable material, she is inhumanly fast and strong, her sense are better than any animal's, and her teeth and nails are razor-sharp. Now physically superior to everyone else around her, she and the other specials are in charge of keeping the city the way it is - squashing rebellions and escapes before they happen.

However, something has changed in Tally's brain, too. Her thoughts and feelings have been programmed to make her a ruthless, cruel fighting machine, and although she knows this is not the way she is supposed to be, she cannot change without quite a bit of intervention from some old friends. By the end of this book, Tally has seen enough horrors that she knows something has to change.

**********************************************

"Extras" was actually written after the trilogy circle was completed, and it takes place seven years after "Specials" ends. I haven't read this one yet, but it looks interesting! There was a preview of the first few chapters at the end of "Specials," and the city has changed - but not necessarily for the better. Now, in addition to striving to reach a standard for physical beauty, everyone is "face ranked," or ranked according to their importance in society. Everyone is followed around by their own personal "hovercam," which records everything they do and ranks them against other people. In other words, popularity is everything. The book is told from the point of view of Aya, a girl whose rank is so low that she is considered an "Extra," or a nobody, in society. That's all I've read so far - more later! If anyone else wants to review this book, or add their review on one of the others, just post it here!

- Laura

Dance Dance Revolution Pictures (and Book Reviews)

2008-03-08T14:51:00.007-05:00

First , some pictures from Dance Dance Revolution...

congratulations to all of our winners!

I just finished reading Dealing With Dragons, the first book of The Enchanted Forest Chronicles by Patricia C. Wrede and loved it! Which is surprising because I never read fantasy type books. They just don't appeal to me. Dragons, Witches, Wizards...blah. But this book took was a bit different. It was clever, and it was funny. It seems to me a lot of fantasy writers try too hard to be another Tolkien, creating such an array of characters that it becomes impossible to keep up with them all. Mapping out various kingdoms and lands or even entire worlds. Which is why I don't read fantasy...it becomes too involved. Wrede, on the other hand, makes fantasy fun. She has created a feisty and far from ordinary princess who runs away from home to avoid an arranged marriage and volunteers to be a dragon's captive princess. She keeps it simple yet exciting and I've already started the second book, Searching for Dragons. If you've read the series, feel free to offer your thoughts as well!

I also just finished another Anne Tyler book. If Morning Ever Comes was actually Tyler's first novel (published when she was just 21!). I feel bad saying so, but I actually didn't care for this particular book as much as her other writing. It was enjoyable, yes, but I think they get better. This book focuses on Ben Joe Hawkes who is studying law at Columbia University. He often writes his mother, grandmother, and 5 sisters back in Sandhill, N.C. but they never seem to give him a detailed report of what's going on at home. So when he finds out one of his sisters has left her husband and returned to Sandhill, he decides to return home to find out what exactly is going on. The family relationships and quirks are interesting as always (I especially like the practical joke the father plays on his family right before he dies. I mean, it was humorous, but awfully sad at the same time) but I'm glad this wasn't the first Tyler book I ever read. I may not have liked her as much. After reading so many of her other books, though, I can see how much she's grown as a writer and how much stronger her later characters have become. I am definitely glad I read it, but I would recommend it only after you've read some of her other novels. Digging to America, maybe. Or The Accidental Tourist.

New Nonfiction Books

2008-03-03T12:04:00.003-05:00

Hello, all! We just got in some new nonfiction books this weekend, and they will be in the YA center display section by tomorrow! Here are some of the titles you can check out:

Street Skateboarding: Endless Grinds and Slides
Street Skateboarding: Flip Tricks
Ultimate Street Magic: Amazing Tricks for the Urban Magician
Teens Cook: How to Cook What You Want to Eat
51 High-Tech Practical Jokes for the Evil Genius
Ink: The Not-Just-Skin-Deep Guide to Getting a Tattoo
True Crime: Real Girls, Real-Life Stories
True Love: Real Girls, Real-Life Stories
The Superhero Handbook
Andy Warhol: Prince of Pop
The Pocket Stylist: Behind-the-Scenes Expertise From a Fashion Pro on Creating Your Own Unique Look
500 Style Tips: What to Wear for School, Weekend, Parties, & More!
Sex 180: The Next Revolution
Grief Girl: My True Story
Um, Like... Om: A Girl Goddess's Guide to Yoga
Immersed in Verse: An Informative, Slightly Irreverent and Totally Tremendous Guide to Living the Poet's Life

Be sure to come by and check these out, as well as some more that should be coming in soon!

Laura

March Events

2008-02-24T15:08:00.010-05:00

Upcoming Events for March:

Poetry Night! Come share your favorite poems, songs or short stories while enjoying yummy pastries.
Tuesday, March 4th, 7-9 PM
In the Glass Room.

On Tuesday, March 18th, from 6:30-8:30 PM come watch "Grave of the Fireflies" with us. In this 1988 film directed by Isao Takahata, teenage Seita and his little sister Setsuko are left to fend for themsleves when their mother is killed in the Tokyo bombing of WWII. Come early for Pizza.

P.S. This is a serious war drama not mindless fluff, so be prepared.

Finally, on Sunday, March 30th from 2:30-4:00 PM, you're invited to another craft workshop. This time we'll be printing our own designs on T-shirts and tote-bags. Space is limited to the first 12 sign-ups, so call or stop by the front desk. Remember to bring your own T-shirt or bag (everything else will be provided).

A Few Book Reviews

2008-02-21T17:11:00.017-05:00

So here is what I've been reading lately. This is one of our new books by Ally Carter and is the first in her series "The Gallagher Girls." It follows Cammie Morgan and her friends through their sophomore year at The Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women. Outsiders
believe the school is simply a snooty private school for rich heiresses, but in reality it is a a top notch school for the next generation of female spies. Cammie and her friends speak 14 different languages, study advanced martial arts and chemical warfare among other things. But what happens when Cammie meets an ordinary boy who thinks she's just an ordinary girl? Well...she pretends to be ordinary. All the while, she and her friends tail her new boyfriend, Josh, finding out everything they can. After all, he could be a "honeypot" (which means he may be trying to infiltrate the school by seducing one of their spies in training). It's sort of a mix between your ordinary chic lit and Charlie's Angels. Probably even a few steps up. It was a quick, fun read which I can definitely recommend. Especially if you need a break from the heavier reading you have to do for school.

I also just finished "Digging to America" by Anne Tyler (who happens to be my favorite author). This novel follows two different families who both adopt children from Korea. One child each to be exact. One of the families is American, the other is Iranian-American. These two families become friends and we watch as they pass the years together. Each chapter is told from a different character's viewpoint with a focus on just one or two characters so you get a pretty well-rounded view of the entire cast. The characters are wonderfully developed (as always) and Tyler does an excellent job portraying culture clash, even among those we consider close friends. If you are at all interested in cultural identity , this is a good choice (though I may be a bit partial). If you decide to read it, I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Kate

2008-02-12T12:21:00.001-05:00

We had a huge turnout and a great time at chocolate boxes this Sunday! Here are some pictures from the event:

Pictures from Beaded Bookmarks!

2008-01-10T12:16:00.000-05:00

We had a blast last night at our first joint teen/adult program in awhile! Here are some pictures from "Beaded Bookmarks" -

Kate's

"artistic shot"

Charly and Rebecca Sue hard at work...

Closeup of Rebecca Sue's work in progress

Kate's bookmark, or one of the drafts... :)

Jenny and Kacie Chasteen's final creations

Rebecca Sue's bookmark (in Kate's favorite book)

Charly using her bookmark in one of the new Inuyasha books

2008-01-08T14:07:00.001-05:00

Hello all!
So, I'm following Katie's example and posting reviews of a few books I've read. Since our new order of YA books came in, I've been grabbing one here and there to read. These are some of the ones I've finished so far. If you like, skim through - maybe you'll see one you'd like to read as well!

Alphabet of Dreams (Susan Fletcher) - I actually started reading this one right around Christmas, having no idea that it was actually a Christmas story (I picked it up because the cover looked interesting). It's a work of fiction, but it is told from the point of view of a child who is part of the caravan of the wise men as they travel towards Bethlehem. Very imaginative, and the author did an awesome job of describing the desert setting and the culture of that time period.

The Good Fairies of New York (Martin Miller) - This book was not at all what I was expecting! I haven't been a huge fan of fantasy in the past, and I was afraid this book would be all fairies and magic and completely unrealistic storylines, but really the fairies are integrated so well into the urban New York landscape that it doesn't read like a normal fantasy book. It's about a handful of fairies that end up in New York, and subsequently decide to set up Dinnie and Kerry (two humans), whom they believe are meant for each other. Very funny in parts - but also deals with some more serious issues of chronic diseases.

Just Listen (Sarah Dessen) - This book would be great for anyone who really enjoys music. I learned a lot about different genres of music just by reading it. The storyline is a bit predictable, but it's still a fun read. I guess the best way to explain it would be to say that it's about marching to the beat of your own drummer.

Uglies (Scott Westerfeld) - Okay, I know everyone reading this blog already read this book a long time ago, but I just read it recently when it came in with the new order (we also got in Pretties and Specials). I wasn't particularly drawn to the book from reading the back, but since all of you loved it so much I wanted to give it a chance. The verdict? I really enjoyed it! It reminded me a lot of 1984 (George Orwell), one of my favorite books, in that it was about a fictional future society that is dramatically different from the one we live in now. I plan to read Pretties next, so please don't spoil it for me!

We actually have another review of Uglies that we should be able to post soon - from a student at OCHS, instead of one from Katie or I. If anyone else wants to review one of our new books - or one of our old ones - or a book we don't even have in our section - just send it to us by email at oconeelibrary@gmail.com, or bring it by the library.

See you guys around!
Laura

Holiday Reading

2007-12-29T14:43:00.001-05:00

Here is what I read over the Holidays. Again, not a YA book. This is the second Marquez book I've read. I finished "One Hundred Years of Solitude" earlier last fall. Which I enjoyed. Usually if I like a book, I'll read another by the same author. If the second also passes the test, well then I have to read every book written by that author. Which in this case means I'll be reading every book by Gabriel Garcia Marquez (not right away, of course).

I think I like Marquez's writing so far because it follows characters through almost their entire lifespan. Or even crosses several generations, as in "One Hundred Years of Solitude." You really get a feel for the characters, and how they change over time. I also love his use of magical realism. Which, if you've never heard of it, is "a literary style which originated in Latin America that combines fantastic or dreamlike elements with realism". In other words, really crazy and often magical things sometimes occur and are treated as if they are the most normal thing in the world. Mundane, even.

Anyway, "Love in the time of Cholera" is a beautiful novel about love in all its forms. It follows the lives of Fermina Daza and Florentino Ariza, who fall in love at a very young age vowing to marry. They write love letters to each other for many years until the day Fermina finally rejects him, discovering that their "love" has been an illusion. She goes on to marry a man far above her station in life, one Dr. Juvenal Urbino, and they go on to have a very stable marriage despite the occasional arguments and even a brief affair. Florentino, however, is still in love with Fermina and believes he always will be. Though he tries to replace her with other loves, he cannot. Eventually, when Fermina's husband dies, Florentino once again declares his love for Fermina Daza just as he had more than 50 years before.

So that's what I read.

If you read anything during your Christmas break, feel free to share it with us. We'd love to hear from you!

Kate

Upcoming January Events!

2007-12-27T12:53:00.001-05:00

We hope everyone is having a fantastic holiday season! Here are the Teen Scene events we have coming up in January:

BEADED BOOKMARKS
Wednesday, January 9, 4:30-6:00 PM

SIGN-UP REQUIRED - at the front desk or by calling or emailing us.
Come create one of these beautiful bookmarks! We'll provide all the materials, but if you have some pretty beads or charms you'd like to use, feel free to bring them as well. This is for teens and adults together, so bring along your older friends or mothers!

We will be giving away an AWESOME prize at this event - a complete beginning beading kit, courtesy of Margo's Beads in downtown Athens. You don't want to miss the chance to win it!

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Game Night

Thursday, January 24, 5:00-7:00 PM

We'll provide the games and the pizza; all you have to do is show up and come EAT and ENJOY! Feel free to bring along any specific games you want to play. Make sure to get there on time if you want your pizza to be HOT!

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Movie Night: Transformers

Sunday, January 27, 3:00-5:00 PM

This really is a great movie - especially when you see it on a big screen! We'll be serving popcorn and drinks for your movie-viewing pleasure.

Hope to see you guys there!

Our Holiday Party!

2007-12-18T13:53:00.002-05:00

Hope to see you all next year!

Pictures from Ornament Making!

2007-12-13T15:23:00.001-05:00

Here they are, as promised:

We had a great time, Thanks for coming!

(Not so bleak) midwinter updates!

2007-12-11T16:59:00.000-05:00

Hello, all!
We had a fantastic time last night making holiday ornaments. Thanks to all of you who came! We will be posting pictures from that event sometime within the next few days, so check back soon!

Just a reminder: our last event of the month - and of the year - is coming up next week! On Monday, December 17, from 7-9 PM, we will have our holiday party. Come prepared to decorate sugar cookies and drink lots of apple cider, and watch the hilarious holiday film "Elf" on our big screen!

For those of you who haven't checked out our section in a few days, we just got a HUGE shipment of new books in! Come in and check out what we got, or you can scroll to the bottom of this post and read a little about some of the books. If we missed something you'd like us to order, TELL US - we'll put it in the next order!

Take care and good luck on finals!
Laura

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New Books Added:

Accidents of Nature (Johnson) - a 17-year-old girl with cerebral palsy goes to a summer camp for people with physical disabilities
Alex Rider books (Horowitz) - Ark Angel, Point Blank, Scorpia, Eagle Strike
The Breakup Bible (Kantor) - a fiction book about the trials and tribulations of breaking up
The Ranger's Apprentice book series (Flanagan)
Devilish (Johnson) - a high school girl tries to help save her demon-possessed friend
More Clique novels
King Dork (Portman) - about a frustrated high school songwriter
Knights of the Hill Country (Tharp) - what happens when the football star falls in love with one of the smartest girls in school?
Last Days (Westerfeld, author of Uglies) - in the midst of mysterious happenings in New York City, a group of high school students tries to pull together a rock band
Midnighters, The Secret Hour (Westerfeld) - the first book in a series about a group of people who were born at the stroke of midnight and mysterious develop magical powers
Rebound (Krech) - a Polish high school student in New Jersey wants to try out for the basketball team, and is met with racism
Saint Iggy (Going) - a freshman who has failed two grades and been suspended nine times enlists the help of a mentor to try to get his life back together
The Teacher's Funeral, A Comedy in 3 Parts (Peck) - a 15-year-old in Indiana in the early 1900's is horrified when his older sister becomes his teacher
Tyrell (Booth) - a 15-year-old in the gritty South Bronx of New York struggles to rise above poverty and save his family
Stephanie Meyer's "Twilight" series ("Twilight," "New Moon" and" Eclipse")
What Happened to Cass McBride? (Giles) - when a young boy commits suicide, his older brother will do anything it takes to get revenge on the girl he believes is at fault
Life as We Knew It (Pfeffer) - a meteor is on a collision course with the moon, and a young sophomore girl records the terrifying events in her diary
A Brief Chapter in My Impossible Life (Reinhardt) - Simone's junior year of high school becomes more complicated as her adoptive parents press her to meet her birth mother
White Time (Lanagan) - a mix of short stories on every topic imaginable!
Wildwood Dancing (Marillier) - five sisters discover a portal that takes them to a place known only as The Other Kingdom
Just Listen (Dessen) - I just finished reading this, and if you love to listen to different kinds of music, you will really enjoy the story
The Good Fairies of New York (Millar) - urban fiction and fantasy combined - hilarious (and often inebriated) Scottish fairies in New York City
Manga: More Fullmetal Alchemist, InuYasha, Fruits Basket, and Naruto; The Absolute Sandman Volume 2; Garage Band; Notes for a War Story; Serenity: Those Left Behind; Aqua; I.N.V.U.; Vampire Game; and Black: The Birth of Evil
Plus several more - the list would be too long for one post! Come see yourself!

Teen Friends Meeting

2007-11-28T12:37:00.000-05:00

Hello, everyone! We had a great meeting last night, and we missed everyone that wasn't able to come! Here is some of what we talked about. Feel free to leave comments if you have anything to add!

Teen Friends will be meeting quarterly (every three months) from now on. New people are completely welcome, so if you didn't make this one, make plans to come to the last one!

Some programs that people would like to see in the future: karaoke, a variety night with local bands, more game nights, anime every month instead of every other month, learning to draw anime, a video game night, another art contest, and of course, more movie nights.

Some specific movies that people mentioned they would like to see: Ever After, The Princess Bride, Equilibrium, Kate and Leopold (and other romantic comedies), I Am David, The Emperor's New Groove, The X-Men, The Prestige, Hairspray, Rush Hour, I Robot, Hitch, Haunted Mansion, Hogfather, and MirrorMask.

Books that you want to see on our shelves: books by Patricia Wrede (especially the dragon series), and Vampirates (or other vampire books).

We do have people interested in starting a tutoring program again. We now have tutor sign-up sheets and "tutee" (if that is a word) sign-up sheets, so if you are interested in either tutoring or being tutored, stop by the library and fill one out. We will try our best to match everyone with someone who will be able to tutor them. We'd like to get this going when school starts back again in January, so the sooner you come, the better!

And here are some of our faithful Teen Friends, perusing this very blog: Rebecca Sue, Charly, Kelsey, and Laura. Thanks, guys!

Just a Reminder -

2007-11-24T15:17:00.001-05:00

Our Teen Friends meeting is coming up next Tuesday, November 27, from 5:30-7:00 PM. We'd love for you to come join us for pizza and some informal chatting about what you'd like to see in our program!

Also, our December fliers are now out. After the Teen Friends meeting, we will post more details on this blog, but the quick version is:

* Anime Night: Tuesday Dec. 4th, 6-8 PM, "Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind" (and pizza)
* Craft: Holiday Ornaments, Monday Dec. 10th, 4:30-6 PM
* Holiday Party: Monday Dec. 17th, 7-9 PM, "Elf," apple cider, and decorating cookies

... Hope to see you at some of these events!
Laura

Poetry Night Pictures and Thoughts

2007-11-21T13:33:00.000-05:00

So everyone who came to poetry night actually read a poem. I was amazed. Not only that, but we celebrated other art forms as well...singing, dancing, drawing. All in all, an enjoyable night.

Heart Whispering Beats

by Rebecca Nunez

It might be

Silly, but

I'm beginning to find

that my heart beats

Faster

When You're around,

That when you're with me

I lose my mind

(Or feel like I do, at least)

That each whisper

That falls from

My heart

seems to escape

My lips
(Faster)

But you don't hear

And I don't care

As long as you don't

(Faster)

Turn around

As long as you don't

(Deep breath and sigh)

Know how I feel

'Cause I'm beginning to find

That my feelings have changed

That being with you now is everything

When before all it was

Was something

Small

Insignificant

In comparison to now

Oh how my heart seems to know

Much more than my mind

Oh how I hate my heart more

Than my twisted image forming mind

'cause one day

My heart will whisper

Its secret to my mind

And one day

My mind will slip

And bumble and fumble

The secret to my mouth

And one day you'll hear

What my heart

Beats to say

I think I love you

Need you, want you

And you'll think its ok.

Sarah and Anna reading "Book Lice"

The aforementioned dancing....

New Bulletin Board, Book Review, and Events

2007-11-17T14:43:00.000-05:00

It's a rare thing when I don 't finish a book. Don't get me wrong though, it doesn't mean the book is bad. Or poorly written. Or even that I don't like it. Sometimes I just get distracted. Especially when the book isn't my style, which happens to be the case in this instance. If I had to choose a few words to describe "Un Lun Dun", I'd have to say that it is truly bizarre, a bit whimsical, and incredibly imaginative. If any of those describe books you've read, then you'd probably like this one.

This book follows two London schoolgirls, Zanna and Deeba, to a fantastical alter-world called Un Lun Dun (and by alter-world, i mean a place similar to Alice's Wonderland). This new found city is full of the lost and broken things of London. Angry bent umbrellas, empty milk cartons that follow you around, talking books, flying buses, carnivorous giraffes...there is no way (and not enough time) to describe all the magical things Zanna and Deeba encounter. It turns out that Zanna happens to be the long-awaited hero of Un Lun Dun. Savior, you might say, whose coming was prophesied long ago. That's about as far as I got. I promise I'll get back to it one of these days. If you've read it, and want me to post your review, just email me at oconeelibrary@gmail.com.

This is our new winter display. Soon there will be snowflakes hanging from the ceiling as well.

Our next event will be Poetry Night, Monday, Nov. 19th from 7:30 till 9. Come hang out with us, share poetry, drink coffee (or tea or cider) and munch on pastries. Share your own poem and we'll give you a prize. Hope to see you there. Oh, and be on the lookout for our next post...we have some awesome activities coming up in December.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Kate

Deco-Boxes!

2007-11-06T13:00:00.000-05:00

A BIG thanks to everyone who came to decoupage on Monday afternoon. So many people showed up we kept running out of room and having to fetch more chairs! Good thing we had enough boxes....

All of the boxes turned out so beautifully. It was fun to see how different each one was and how it reflected the unique personality of the artist. Among them, we had a horse themed box, a "quilted" box, and a super-glitterized one (yes, I made that word up).

Scary Movie and Monsters

2007-10-30T16:03:00.000-04:00

Thanks everyone who entered our Monster Art Contest.

Here are some of the entries and winners...

Winner Best Overall and Scariest Monster categories

by Rebecca Nunez

Top to bottom: a crowd favorite by Stefan Williams, Pyrosaurus by Riley Hester, and a dragon by Sarah Jones. Sarah and Riley tied for Most Creative Monster.

This is my personal favorite. He (or she) needs a name, though. Anyone got any ideas? Okay, we'll call him Mike. Mike is now the official guardian of the YA section. He sits on the top shelf. Chloe Casey is the artist.

2007-10-24T19:37:00.000-04:00

This is what I'm reading now. Just finished, I mean.

I know, it's not actually a Young Adult book. Lately I've been reading a good many books on eating fresh and local. This book follows Barbara Kingsolver and her family as they embark on a year of eating nothing but local and seasonal meat and produce. Keep a garden, raise some chickens and turkeys, visit the farmer's market. It also includes recipes and sample menus based on the season. How about some Pumpkin Soup in Its Own Shell this autumn? If you are at all interested in cooking or the "locavore" movement (those who eat only locally grown foods), I highly recommend this book. It's nonfiction, not a novel, so be prepared. However, Kingsolver is an amazing writer and I never once lost interest or felt bored. So even if you aren't interested, give it a try one day. Maybe it will inspire you to visit our local farmer's market next spring, or even attempt one of the many lovely recipes. They are surprisingly simple, I assure you. And tasty too.

This is what I'm reading now.

I'll have to tell you about it later.

Don't tell me how it ends.

Kate

November Events

2007-10-18T13:30:00.000-04:00

October isn't over yet (see our last post for information about our art contest and scary movie night), but here are the upcoming events for November!

Decoupage Boxes

Monday, November 5, 4:00-5:30 PM, in the glass room

Transform an ordinary box into a work of art! All materials and light snacks will be provided.

Poetry Night
Monday, November 19, 7:30-9:00 PM, in the glass room

Share poetry, songs, and stories (your own or someone else's) while enjoying coffee and pastries!

Teen Friends Meeting

Tuesday, November 27, 5:00-6:30 PM, in the glass room

Want an opportunity for community servce? Come to this meeting and help out your library! Tell us what YOU would like to see, from upcoming events to books and more! We'll provide pizza and drinks, and all you have to do is SHOW UP!

October Events

2007-10-13T17:39:00.000-04:00

"I've Created a Monster!" Art Contest
Deadline Friday, October 26
Share your masterpiece with us in our first ever "I've created a monster" art contest. Entries must be new and original artwork in any medium - drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, even computer generated. These will be judged by your peers for the categories of best overall, scariest, and most creative. Good luck!

Scary Movie Night
Monday, October 29, 7-9 PM
Come enjoy the suspense of "When a Stranger Calls!" We will also vote on the art contest entries and choose the winners by the end of the evening! Drinks and snacks provided.

...Coming up in November:

Craft: Decoupaged Boxes
Event: Poetry Night
Community Service: Teen Friends Meeting