The Wareham Free Library is hoping to become the new “it” spot for tweens and teens. The library was recently awarded a $15,000 federal grant to extend its young adult section.

“There is a need to build a teen collection,” said Library Director Denise Medeiros. “We have such a fabulous children’s program and we have a disconnect where there was no transitional program. This is creating that type of program.”

Once the library receives the grant money in October, Medeiros said it will be used to “beef up” the young adult section. Since she was hired as the full-time Library Director in April, Medeiros said she and the staff have been dedicated to amping up the reading selection for "tweens" - youngsters between the ages of 10 and 12 - and teens.

The money will also go towards creating an environment for tweens and teens to enjoy after school. Plans include a new “teen room,” which will be located behind the reference section, and adding games.

The funds will also allow the library to obtain a part-time Teen Services Coordinator who will be at the library during after-school hours, Medeiros said.

In January, in anticipation of receiving the grant money, the library formed its Teen Advisory Board. A core group of ten young adults have been brainstorming ways to encourage more teens to use the library. The group also advises the Library Board of Trustees on issues and policies concerning teens.

“A lot of [the programming] we want driven by the teens themselves,” Medeiros said. “We don’t want to do ‘lame’ things. The point is to do things they're interested in.”

So far, the Teen Advisory Board has sponsored a bookmark contest, coordinated a talent show, and designed a Facebook page.

“They are very enthusiastic about promoting the library,” said Laurie Cavanaugh, Head of Reference at the library who also oversees the Teen Advisory Board. “They use the library and they like the idea of taking a part in planning.”

Other ideas the board has in the works include spooky story night, a teen library newsletter, and hosting a mock game show program inspired by Trivial Pursuit, Wheel of Fortune, or Jeopardy.

The Teen Advisory Board is always looking for new members. The only requirements are to be a Wareham teen in grades 9-12, to attend monthly meetings, and to have a library card.