On Monday, Alison, a librarian at Ottawa Public Library (OPL), joined Will Aiello, co-anchor of CTV Morning Live Ottawa, to shine a spotlight on OPL’s Teen Staycation programming.
As Alison explained, families should encourage their teen to see the Library as a hub for creativity, learning, and connection:
“We want to send them home with a book, but we’re also about bringing them in to explore their interests and have fun with their peers.”
Whether you caught the interview or are just hearing about it now, here’s what you need to know about how OPL is helping teens ages 13 to 18 make the most of their summer break.
What Is Teen Staycation?
Teen Staycation is a summer series of engaging activities and hands-on workshops designed specifically for teens aged 13 to 18. Running from June 26 to August 30, the program helps teens build confidence, explore new interests, and gain practical skills—all in a fun, supportive environment.
Teen Hesitant About Attending?
As Alison emphasized on CTV Morning Live, teens have told us they want free, welcoming places to spend time with friends:
“Just grab a friend, go to a local branch, and check it out! We have teen specific spaces—they are cozy, comfy spots where you are surrounded by basically all of the best books. And a lot of the programs are drop-in, so you could just stop by [and] check it out. Or maybe go to an online program first and then come to an in-person program.”
With 33 branches citywide, there’s always one close by where your teen can drop in, relax, and discover something new.
Why Teens (and Parents) Love It?
- It’s completely free! Some activities don’t even need a library card.
- There is something for everyone! Explore everything from creative arts to gaming to real-life skills.
- It’s welcoming and cool. The Library is a cozy, air-conditioned spot to hang out with friends or meet new ones. Many events even offer snacks!
- It builds real-world skills. Learn sewing, cooking, personal finance, and more—tools your teen can carry into the future.
- It fosters meaningful connections. Whether your teen is outgoing or prefers quieter spaces, they’ll find welcoming peers and mentors who share their interests.
- And for parents: it’s a great opportunity to get your teen(s) off their phones!
What’s the Lineup?
We’ve got a summer packed with fun: sticker making, escape rooms, arts and crafts, personal finance workshops, Dungeons & Dragons, Bollywood dancing, sewing workshops, and more. Some activities require registration, while many are drop-in.
Prefer quieter or solo participation? OPL accommodates different styles of engagement:
• Try virtual workshops or self-guided sessions like Sticker Making.
• Look for cozy drop-in spaces to read, journal, or craft quietly.
• Talk to a librarian about resources or volunteer opportunities your teen can explore independently.
🗓️ Ready to join the fun? Check the program schedule and reserve your spot!
📞 Questions? Contact OPL at InfoService@BiblioOttawaLibrary.ca or call 613-580-2940.
🎥 A huge thanks to Alison and Will of CTV Morning Live Ottawa for this great chat about OPL and its many offerings. Make sure to check them out at: The Ottawa Public Library has a unique summer program for teens
