Part of the Story
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 5, 2024
Part of the Story
Library Program for Teens to Focus on Relationships with Self and Others
YORK, PA – Author and artist Laura Lee Gulledge will speak with York County teens on Thursday, February 8 at Martin Library in York. Her appearance is part of the annual York County Libraries Part of the Story program. Area high school students in grades 9 – 12 are invited to sign up for the free event. It will be held from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. in the Teens space at the library.
“Part of the Story introduces teens to topic experts, relevant information, and practical strategies they can use now and moving forward to create a vibrant future,” says York County Libraries President Robert F. Lambert. This year’s event will focus on the theme of teen relationships with self, family, friends, partners, and community. Interested students should register in advance at yorklibraries.org/part-of-the-story by January 25. The inclement weather date is set for Thursday, February 22.
Throughout the day, participants will engage in several small group activities. Local professionals will join Gulledge to create a human library where they will share their experiences and expertise with attendees. Lamar Advertising will provide a design session to educate teens as to how billboards can build community awareness around important issues. After which, they will work in groups to create a billboard design based on this year’s theme. The art will be evaluated by a panel of judges and the winning design will be displayed on billboards across York County.
“With the support of our featured author and other local experts, participants collaborate and learn together about the issues that are important to them. That is what makes Part of the Story special,” says York County Libraries Director of Youth Services Mindy McDonnell. “Through a shared reading experience, teens get to discuss and explore a topic they have chosen with other teens from around the county.”
Gulledge is an Eisner Award nominated cartoonist, teaching artist, musical librettist, and collaborative muralist based in Charlottesville, VA. She is the author of “The Dark Matter of Mona Starr,” “Page by Paige,” “Will and Whit,” and “Sketchbook Dares: 24 Ways to Draw Out Your Inner Artist.” Teens attending this year’s Part of the Story event will receive a signed copy of “The Dark Matter of Mona Starr.” The book explores several themes including friendships, battling your inner doubts and fears, and mental wellness. Anyone with questions about the day’s program should email [email protected].
Martin Library is located at 159 E. Market Street in York. It is a branch of York County Libraries which includes 13 libraries that provide the latest in print and electronic information, best sellers, Wi-Fi, story times, book discussions and more. Their librarians are passionate advocates for lifelong learning, providing opportunities and resources for all ages. To learn more about YCL programs, services, and resources, go to yorklibraries.org.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Deb Sullivan
Community Relations Director
York County Libraries
[email protected]