In order to inspire both self-confidence and love in teens from 13 to 17 years old, the Mullica Hill library will host a session where they can make a Valentine to themselves on Friday, Feb. 10.
Teens at the My Own Valentine event will get “the best valentine they can ask for, their own,” said teen librarian Crysta Miller.
The session is a first for the library, and the idea came about after Miller participated in some outreach events for teenagers at local high schools.
“… The teens were talking about how they’re wanting a space to just be themselves, no questions asked,” said Miller of her outreach. “It’s a rare opportunity for them to talk about themselves in a positive way, without getting some kind of scrutiny from their peers, no matter how subtle.
“After my visits, I wanted to give them a space to be themselves and meet the teens where they are,” she added. “By creating their own Valentines, they don’t have to share the sentiments out loud and it will be a moment just for them.”
Along with Valentine’s Day, February is also recognized as National Kindness Month. According to Miller, My Own Valentine participants can expect kindness to themselves at the library.
“People can expect to come out of this program with a bit more self-confidence than they came in with,” she explained. “It’s my goal to make sure that the teens feel love for themselves, and not measure their social success based on others. A little self-confidence goes a long way.
“I want to see these teens be the best versions of themselves and be unstoppable when it comes to their aspirations.”
My Own Valentine will take place from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. and is free with registration on the county library system’s website, under events. The registration form requires first and last name; phone number; and email address, with each participant filling out the form separately. There are 25 openings, with room for more, according to Miller.
Contact Miller at (856) 223-6028 or by email at [email protected] for more information.
