Open mic for teens planned – Fort Frances Times

    The Fort Frances Pubic Library is trying to get teens excited about the library with some new programs that target their age group and interests.
   Tonight, for instance, the library is holding an open mic night downstairs in the Children’s Department.
   A stage will be set up with a sound system. Now they just need teenagers to come out and display their talents.
   They are looking for teens to sing, play guitar, read poetry, or do a stand-up comedy act.
   “We’ve always had a lot of programs for younger children but not much for teens, so last year we started trying to get them more involved,” noted library staff member Kayla Brady.
   “We had a lot of positive response last year with some of the programs and decided to try some more new ones this summer,” she added.
   The basement will be set up to model a coffee shop and refreshments will be provided. The cost is $2 at the door for both participants and spectators.
   “We want lots of people to come out and watch,” Brady said.
   This event is the first of the library’s “Teen Wired” program.
   They also are running their annual summer reading challenge, “Wii love the library,” which has some great prizes up for grabs.
   At the end of the summer, one top book-worm will be awarded a Nintendo Wii.
   All you have to do to be eligible for the grand prize draw is to read six books over the summer. Other prizes also will be given out along the way to keep kids reading.
   The program is sponsored by Global Gaming, Fort Frances Kiwanis Club, and Cine 5.
   A reminder that Tuesdays are “toonie night” for teens at the library all summer long.
   Other activities planned include:
   •Dance, Dance Revolution/Guitar Hero on July 24 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. ($2 admission);
   •Bombshell Jewellery on Aug. 7 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. ($5 admission);
   •Another Coffee House and Open Mic Night on Aug. 21 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. ($2 admission); and
   •the “Wii love the Library” draw on Aug. 24.
   For more information, contact the Fort Frances Public Library at 274-9870 or visit www.fort-frances.com/library