Our teen programs are only for ages 12 to 18 to help participants feel welcome and comfortable in a teen-only environment. Occasionally, programs with overlapping age groups will also be listed here, with the specific age range noted.
Registration is required for select teen programs: Teen Summer Reading Challenge, Colorful Creations, Mocktail Mixer, Teen Anime Club, Teen Crafternoon, Teen Henna Workshop, The Ultimate Tournament, and 100 Books Before Graduation. Programs that require registration also have an asterisk (*) on the list below. All other teen programs are first, come first served.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Teen Services Librarian. If you need an accommodation for equal program access, please contact her in advance (at least 24 hours before the program) to make an accessibility request.
Visit us for Free Comic Book Day! Our Teen Advisory Board (TAB) is giving away free comics and hosting fun activities to promote the love of reading and help new readers discover comics.
Note: Helen Hall Library cards or TexShare cards are required to participate. Comics are limited and available while supplies last.
Saturday, May 10
1 to 2:30 p.m. in the Library Theater
For all ages!
Explore new ways to sharpen your skills with strategy-based card games such as Happy Little Dinosaurs, Exploding Kittens, and Magic: The Gathering! All experience levels are welcome. This program is led by a Teen Advisory Board member.
Note: Teen-rated card games are provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own teen-rated games. Seats are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
Wednesdays: Apr. 23, May 14, May 28, Jun. 11, Jun. 25, Jul. 9, Jul. 23, Aug. 13, Aug. 27
5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Library Boardroom
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Learn basic art skills and create artwork with your friends!
Note: Space is limited and registration is required. Closed-toe shoes are required, and it is recommended to wear appropriate clothes for painting.
Monday, Jul. 14: Origami
Tuesday, Jul. 29: Painting
5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Library Theater
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Register Here
Registration opens two weeks before each date.
Experience an afternoon of animated fun with two beloved classics! Watch Ratatouille (2007, G) and The Incredibles (2004, PG) for a double dose of adventure, laughter, and unforgettable characters. Remember to bring your friends and snacks!
Friday, Jul. 18
1:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Teen Room (on the second floor)
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Master the basics of Excel as you navigate spreadsheets, formulas, and shortcuts in this hands-on class. Whether you're brand new or just need a refresher, you'll build skills to take on any spreadsheet with confidence
Thursday, Jun. 12
4 to 5:30 p.m. in the Computer Lab (on the second floor)
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Drop by to play Nintendo Switch games, Cards Against Humanity: Family Edition, Monopoly, and more!
Note: Games are provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own teen-rated games. Smart phones/tablets with internet access are needed for Jackbox games.
Mondays: Apr. 28
5 to 6 p.m. in the Library Theater
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Shake things up with an evening of mocktail-making! Learn to mix fun, non-alcoholic drinks, then stick around for games, activities, and a sneak peek at what the library offers beyond the teen years. Adulthood comes with new experiences, so let’s make them awesome!
Note: Registration is required.
Monday, Jun. 9
5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Library Theater
For ages 16 to 20 only.
Register Here
Registration opens on May 26.
Become an ambassador for your Library and gain leadership experience! Help plan teen activities, assist with Library events, and more. Participation counts as service hours, and new members are welcome!
Note: Applications for new members are provided at the end of each meeting.
Wednesdays: Jun. 4, Jun. 18, Jul. 2, Jul. 16
5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Library Theater
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Calling all anime fans! Join us to watch and discuss some good anime shows while eating snacks.
Note: Anime shows selected are rated PG-13 and TV-14.
Mondays: Jun. 2, Jun. 16, Jul. 7, Jul. 21
5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Library Theater
For ages 12 to 18 only.
To register, click on the date listed above that you are interested in and complete the form.
Registration opens 2 weeks before each date.
Take your writing to the next level! This feedback-focused group is for teens serious about refining their works in progress, developing creative ideas, and working toward publication. Be prepared to share your original works, ideas, and questions about the process with fellow writers for personalized critique and insightful discussions. This program is led by a Teen Advisory Board member.
Note: Original works may include PG-13 and TV-14 content. Seats are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
Tuesdays: May 6
5 to 7 p.m. in the Library Boardroom
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Level up your chess game, no matter your skill! Make your move in exciting matches, pick up new strategies, and learn alongside peers ready to help you master the board. This program is led by a Teen Advisory Board member.
Note: Participants are encouraged to bring their own chess sets, but a limited number of chess sets are provided.
Tuesdays: May 20, Jun. 17, Jul. 15, Aug. 19
5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Library Theater
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Feeling crafty? We’ll supply the materials, you bring the ideas. Drop in, try something new, and craft alongside fellow teens!
Note: Space is limited and registration is required. Closed-toe shoes are required, and it is recommended to wear appropriate clothes for crafting.
Wednesday, Jun. 25: Faux Stained Glass Mosaic
Wednesday, Jul. 23: Rubber Duck Decorating
3:30 to 5 p.m. in the Library Theater
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Register Here
Registration opens two weeks before each date.
Relax and find inspiration with fellow crafters through needlework, beadwork, and jewelry making! There is no formal instruction, but beginners are welcome. Please bring your own materials and tools to participate in these crafting techniques. This program is led by a Teen Advisory Board member.
Thursdays: Apr. 24, May 8, May 22, Jun. 12, Jun. 26, Jul. 10, Jul. 24, Aug. 14, Aug. 28
5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Teen Room (on the second floor)
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Create stunning henna designs! Discover this ancient art form using natural, plant-based dye as you learn to apply intricate, temporary designs on yourself and others.
Note: Space is limited and registration is required. It is recommended to wear appropriate clothes for dyes.
Monday, Jun. 23
5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Library Theater
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Register Here
Registration opens on Jun. 9.
Ready, set, build! Take on creative Lego challenges, spark some friendly competition, and have a blast with friends.
Wednesday, Jul. 30
5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Teen Room (on the second floor)
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Build connections and receive peer validation! Engage in heartfelt talks and relaxing activities, leaving each session with an uplifted mood and mindset. This program is led by a Teen Advisory Board member.
Note: Seats are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
Thursdays: May 1, May 15
5 to 6:30 p.m. in the Library Boardroom
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Discover the writer within you! Explore fun writing activities, sharpen your skills, and find inspiration while supporting each other on the creative journey.
Note: Seats are limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
Tuesdays: Jun. 10, Jun. 24, Jul. 8, Jul. 22
5 to 6 p.m. in the Library Boardroom
For ages 12 to 18 only.
3. 2. 1. GO! Put your game face on and play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate against others. Register to play in the tournament or to show up to cheer for your friends!
Note: Space is limited for players. Registration is required for both players and non-players. The GameCube controllers that will be provided are the only controllers used for the tournament. Nintendo is not a sponsor of or affiliated with this tournament. Terms for participating in and viewing Community Tournaments using Nintendo Games: https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/63454.
Friday, Jun. 13
3 to 5:30 p.m. in the Library Theater
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Player Registration (limited to the first 32 participants)
Non-Player Registration (unlimited)
Registrations open on May 30.
We challenge you to read 100 books before graduating high school! Teens who complete the challenge will receive prizes and major bragging rights!
Register Here or download the Beanstack Tracker App How It Works and FAQs
Ongoing until you graduate high school!
For ages 12-18 only.
Read, earn prizes, and win big! For every 10 hours you read, you’ll earn rewards and entries into our grand prize drawings. Keep reading to stack up even more chances to win!
Note: Teens turning age 12 by July 31, 2025 are eligible to participate.
Jun. 1 to Aug. 3
For ages 12 to 18 only.
Register Here or download the Beanstack Tracker App
Registration opens on May 19.