Teen Techies

Do you love technology and your library? Want to make a difference in your community? Looking to build your resume and gain valuable work and leadership experience? Apply to BPL's Teen Techies program!

By participating, you'll learn new computer skills in a two-week fall technology institute, and then share those skills by helping patrons use library computers. You'll also assist library staff with computer troubleshooting and computer training workshops for the public.

Why Join?
  • Interest in technology!
  • Make a difference in your community.
  • Receive stipends following successful completion of training and library service hours.
  • Get community service credits for school!
Responsibilities
  • Assist Adult Librarians, working as lab assistants in delivering computer training programs.
  • Assist patrons in using windows-based software and online Library resources.
  • Assist Library Technology Resource Specialists by troubleshooting more advanced technology problems, applying skills learned in training workshops.

 

Requirements
  • 14-18 years old.
  • Consent portion of Teen Techies Volunteer Application signed by parent or guardian before starting the assignment.
  • Attend and successfully complete a two-week summer technology workshop, prior to beginning Teen Techies volunteer assignment.
  • A friendly manner and an ability to get along with a diverse group of people, using skills learned at the workshop.
  • After successful completion of the workshop, teens volunteer a minimum of three hours per week for a period of at least 6 months.
  • Teens are asked to attend two Volunteer Forums during the year, for teens to discuss challenges and successes experienced, exchange tips on coaching and socialize.
  • After completion of their volunteer commitment, participants are asked to write a short essay about their experience in Teen Techies.

 

How to Apply

Teen Techies
Volunteer Resources
Grand Army Plaza
Brooklyn, NY 11238

Want more information? Contact Teen Techies at 718.230.2406 or e-mail us at TeenTechies@bklynlibrary.org.

Acknowledgments

Teen Techies is made possible through the generous support of Optimum, Google.org, The Hearst Foundation, and NYC’s Department of Information Technology and Telecommunication through the NYC Connected Communities program.

See all volunteer opportunities.

 

Become a Teen Techies participant

Complete an Online Application.

Complete a print application and mail to:

Teen Techies
Volunteer Resources
Grand Army Plaza
Brooklyn, NY 11238

Get Started

 

Contact the Program

 TeenTechies@bklynlibrary.org

 718.230.2406

 

From our teens

“I was given the opportunity to explore coding, robotics, game design, and test my skills in new areas. I love to learn, and the (Teen Techies) program expanded my horizons to the things that I thought weren't immediately available to me." - Kemba, 2016

“Albert Einstein once said "The only source of knowledge is experience." As I finish my hours at the library, not only has my knowledge of computers broadened, but I had an opportunity to work with the most wonderful people in my community.” - Christine, 2011

“Aside from these technologically related skills, the (Teen Techies) program also gave me better social skills to talk to people more easily. The experience I gained in this program is tremendous. All of these skills are just a part of the whole experience. I met great staff members and volunteers; and I made a lot of new friends.” Jason, 2015

“My interest in technology and the STEM field in general was definitely bolstered through this amazing experience.” Arvin, 2015