Local library inches closer to a dedicated teen space. There will be a smart board
The Puyallup Public Library is one step closer to establishing a full-fledged teen zone.
The library recently received a $100,000 donation from the Rotary Club of Puyallup, which will go toward constructing a new space for teens on the library’s second floor. It will be called the “Rotary Teen Zone.”
The plan for the teen zone is to have an enclosed area where teenagers can do homework, projects or socialize. The estimated cost for the project is $500,000, most of which the library is working to secure.
“By 2024 we’ll hopefully see something new in there at the library space,” city spokesperson Eric Johnson said.
The teen zone would have a big interactive smart board. There would be computers as well as movable chairs and tables. Teenagers would be able to occupy the space after school, so there’s the possibility other patrons could also use the space.
Library director Patty Ross said the donation displays how much the community cares for the library. A survey the library issued in July 2021 showed that even people who weren’t teens saw the importance of having a space dedicated to them, she said.
“Teenagers really don’t have a place to go,” Ross said. “They need a place where they can be who they are.”
The library presented plans to the City Council on September 2021 to add more amenities for patrons. A cafe, art gallery and teen space were three of the main options — with the teen space a top contender.
