By Jeune Bailey Van Keric
The National Library on July 2nd launched the country’s first Teen Space at its New Amsterdam branch, with officials saying the initiative is intended to provide young people with a safe environment for learning and personal development amid growing concerns over school violence, vaping, drug abuse and absenteeism.
The facility offers teenagers free access to books, digital resources, STEM tools, coding programmes, creative arts activities and mentorship. According to the National Library, similar spaces are expected to be established in other regions as part of a nationwide programme.
Chief Librarian Emily King said the New Amsterdam facility marks the beginning of a broader initiative aimed at creating more inclusive and engaging learning environments for young people across the country.
She said the Teen Space would serve as a model for similar facilities planned in other regions and forms part of the library’s efforts ahead of its 55th anniversary celebrations in 2027.
Mayor of New Amsterdam Wainwright McIntosh welcomed the initiative while expressing concern over the increasing use of electronic cigarettes among students.
He said vaping had become a serious issue in schools, adding that some products reportedly contain marijuana oil and other substances. McIntosh argued that addressing the problem required more than enforcement measures and that young people also needed access to constructive alternatives.
“This is not just about banning vapes. It’s about giving our young people better options,” he said, adding that the municipality was prepared to work with the relevant authorities to remove such products from stores if necessary.
Regional Executive Officer Ronald Harsawack also linked the initiative to challenges facing the education system, including school violence, drug abuse and absenteeism.
He said incidents involving students are frequently highlighted on social media and underscored the need for safe spaces where young people could engage in productive activities.
According to Harsawack, the Teen Space is intended to provide access to books, computers, tablets and other learning resources, while also giving teenagers opportunities to interact with mentors who can provide guidance.
Describing the facility as the first of its kind in Guyana, he said Region Six was proud to host the pilot project.
Harsawack stressed that the success of the initiative would depend on collaboration among the National Library, the education sector and regional authorities. He added that the Regional Democratic Council, through the Department of Education, would continue to support the programme and monitor its impact by tracking participation and assessing changes in users’ attitudes and behaviour.
Addressing students from four secondary schools in the New Amsterdam township, King encouraged them to take full advantage of the facility.
She said the Teen Space had been created to give young people opportunities to learn, explore technology and develop their talents in a supportive environment.
The Teen Space will focus on promoting reading for pleasure and academic support, STEM education and digital literacy through coding, robotics and computer access, creative expression through art and music, collaborative learning and leadership development, and mentorship by library staff and partner organisations.
The launch programme was chaired by Senior Library Assistant II Sereta Bhikhai, while Alisia Kellowan delivered the vote of thanks.
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