School-Age Programming

Here are some ideas for common types of school-age programming you can consider:

• Gaming groups (Dungeons and Dragons, board games, video games)
• LEGO clubs
• Coding groups
• Book clubs/discussion groups
• Art/creative writing groups
• HOMAGO: “Hanging Out, Messing Around, Geeking Out” spaces for intentional unstructured interaction for school-age youth.

While the programs above are fairly common in libraries around the country, you may find that your school-age patrons have different tastes, and want different kinds of programming. In some cases, you might find yourself trying many different ideas before you find something that really appeals and sticks. Try not to get too discouraged if something doesn’t work out, or if there doesn’t seem to be too much interest. This is a common part of the planning process, and will give you feedback on other directions to go in!

Please refer to the workbook for a reflection activity on programming.