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TeenTober at the Miami-Dade Public Library System

October is TeenTober

The Library for Teens

Libraries across the nation are celebrating TeenTober, a special month dedicated to teens!

It's a time to showcase teen services and innovative ways for teens to learn new skills, pursue their passions, connect with others and have fun. Join us for awesome programs throughout October, including poetry, crafts, gaming, career exploration and more. From building new skills to exploring your creativity or just hanging out with friends, there’s something for every teen at the Library!

Find TeenTober Events Explore Resources for Teens

TeenTober Events & Programs

Skip TeenTober Events 2025 widget
Discover the Decades - Sensational 1970s!
Thu, Oct 01, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Miami Beach Regional - Children's Story Room
The 1970s are famous for disco and funky fashions, but they were also a time of... more
The 1970s are famous for disco and funky fashions, but they were also a time of economic struggle, cultural change and political shifts. Get to know this decade in American history in a laidback but interactive way! Listen to famous songs from the decade, play a timeline game for a small prize, and get book and movie recommendations to really dive in. Prizes available while supplies last. For more information, please contact the branch at 305-535-4219 or capleyb@mdpls.org. Ages 12-18 yrs.
Sticky Note Art Gallery
Fri, Oct 02, 9:30am - 5:00pm
Miami Springs Branch
Help us create a month-long art gallery! Make a mini masterpiece on a sticky note and... more
Help us create a month-long art gallery! Make a mini masterpiece on a sticky note and add it to our growing collection. How creative can you get in such a tiny space? For more information, please contact the branch at 305-805-3811 or mayerr@mdpls.org. Ages 8 - 18 yrs.
Animation Club: Rotoscope Techniques
Fri, Oct 02, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
North Dade Regional - YOUmedia
Bring your ideas to life with frame-by-frame animation in Photoshop using rotoscoping,... more
Bring your ideas to life with frame-by-frame animation in Photoshop using rotoscoping, a technique that lets you draw over live footage to create dynamic, fluid movement. Learn this classic animation process step by step and walk away with a short animation of your own to share and showcase. No experience necessary. Registration required. For more information, contact 305-474-3033 or hernandezjes@mdpls.org. Ages 14 yrs.+
Registration is now closed
Poetry Workshop for Teens, Inspired by "Poetry City"
Fri, Oct 02, 3:30pm - 5:00pm
North Dade Regional
Join us after the screening of "Poetry City" for an inspiring poetry workshop with... more
Join us after the screening of "Poetry City" for an inspiring poetry workshop with Oscar Fuentes, The Biscayne Poet. Through engaging writing prompts and creative exercises, you’ll be guided in crafting your own original poem. End the evening with an optional open mic and celebrate the power of words in a supportive, inclusive atmosphere. For more information contact 305-625-6425 or noelp@mdpls.org. Ages 12 - 18 yrs.
Rescheduled
DIY Friendship Bracelets
Fri, Oct 02, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
New date Friday, October 16, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Country Walk Branch
Let's kickoff TeenTober with an afternoon of fun, friendship, and festive spirit!... more
Let's kickoff TeenTober with an afternoon of fun, friendship, and festive spirit! Design and craft your own personalized friendship bracelets using colorful threads and unique patterns. This DIY activity is perfect for any teen interested in crafting and is a great way to make new friends and express your creativity. Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch at 786-293-4577 or imbimbog@mdpls.org. Ages 12-18 yrs.
Writing a Sonnet In The Insta Age
Sat, Oct 03, 10:30am - 11:30am
Westchester Regional - First Floor Auditorium
Do you follow poets on social media? Are you interested in writing poetry? Join... more
Do you follow poets on social media? Are you interested in writing poetry? Join Miami-Dade County Poet Laureate Emerita Caridad Moro-Gronlier to learn how to write a modern sonnet that can be shared on social media. Registration is required. For more information, contact 305-553-1134 or gonzalezja@mdpls.org. Ages 13 - 18 yrs.
Spoken Word Poetry Workshop for Teens
Sat, Oct 03, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Naranja Branch - Auditorium
Do you like lyrics, rhyme and rhythm? Create a unique spoken word poem called a... more
Do you like lyrics, rhyme and rhythm? Create a unique spoken word poem called a "Golden Shovel" using a line of lyrics from your favorite song. Learn about forms of poetry with educator and poet Trey Rhone. For more information, please contact the branch at 305-242-2290 or gonzalezmi@mdpls.org. Ages 12-18 yrs.
The Fantastic World of Harry Potter
Sat, Oct 03, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Coral Reef Branch
Enjoy a magical celebration for Harry Potter! Wear your best Hogwarts attire and... more
Enjoy a magical celebration for Harry Potter! Wear your best Hogwarts attire and participate in a sorting hat ceremony, make your own wand and be joined by special guests. For more information, please contact the branch at 305-233-8324 or quiroslasom@mdpls.org. All ages.
Halloween Mini Cake Decorating Class
Sat, Oct 03, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Country Walk Branch
Boo-to-you! Join this interactive Halloween-themed mini lunch box cake decorating... more
Boo-to-you! Join this interactive Halloween-themed mini lunch box cake decorating class! Attendees will ice, fill and decorate cakes with spooky designs, such as a Witch’s Cauldron or Dracula’s Coffin. Each person will create their own Halloween-inspired cake, and the spookiest creation will win a haunting surprise. For more information, please contact the branch at 786-293-4577 or imbimbog@mdpls.org. Ages 12-18 yrs.
This event is full
Teen Library Advisory Committee
Mon, Oct 05, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Kendall Branch - Meeting Room
Earn volunteer hours while helping make our library an even better place for teens.... more
Earn volunteer hours while helping make our library an even better place for teens. Make new friends while helping choose books, planning and leading programs and learning new skills. For more information contact the branch at 305-279-0520 or corredorj@mdpls.org. Ages 14 - 18 yrs
Teen Library Advisory Committee
Mon, Oct 05, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
West Flagler Branch
Earn volunteer hours while building your own miniature ecosystem in this relaxing,... more
Earn volunteer hours while building your own miniature ecosystem in this relaxing, creative workshop. Learn how to layer soil, moss, and plants to design a self-sustaining terrarium that brings a touch of greenery and calm into any space. Materials provided. Registration required. For more information, please contact the branch at 305-442-8710 or muniasm@mdpls.org. Ages 13 -18 yrs old.
Chess Club
Mon, Oct 05, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Coral Reef Branch
Sharpen your skills by playing against other fans of this classic game! Facilitated... more
Sharpen your skills by playing against other fans of this classic game! Facilitated National Master Joaquin Mestre. For more information, please contact the branch at 305-233-8324 or quiroslasom@mdpls.org. All ages. / Mejora tus habilidades jugando contra otros fanáticos de este juego clásico. Facilitado por el Maestro Nacional Joaquin Mestre. Para más información, por favor, contáctenos al 305-233-8324 o quiroslasom@mdpls.org. Para todas las edades.
Financial Aid 101
Mon, Oct 05, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
West Flagler Branch - West Flagler Virtual Programs Room
Thinking about life after high school can feel overwhelming, especially when... more
Thinking about life after high school can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating how to afford higher education. Join us in-person or online as we break down the basics of what financial aid is and help you identify the different types of aid. This event is part of the College and Career Program Series. Registration is required for online participation. For more information, contact the branch at 305-442-8710 or muniasm@mdpls.org. Ages 12 yrs.+
Make a Mini Library
Tue, Oct 06, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Miami Beach Regional - Children's Story Room
Unleash your creative side with a bookish craft and make a mini library! Create a... more
Unleash your creative side with a bookish craft and make a mini library! Create a cozy-looking nook of miniature reads that makes the perfect addition your bookshelf. Materials while supplies last. For more information, please contact the branch at (305) 535-4219 or capleyb@mdpls.org. Ages 10-18 yrs.
3D Modeling Club: Creepy Cookie Cutters
Tue, Oct 06, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
North Dade Regional - YOUmedia
Design a seasonal cookie cutter inspired by spooky shapes, playful characters and all... more
Design a seasonal cookie cutter inspired by spooky shapes, playful characters and all things delightfully eerie. Using Tinkercad, a beginner friendly 3D modeling program, you’ll learn the basics of 3D design while creating a custom cutter ready for your next batch of treats. Computers are provided on a first-come, first-served basis. No experience necessary. Registration required. For more information, contact 305-474-3033 or hernandezjes@mdpls.org. Ages 14 yrs.+
Fluorescent Flamingos!
Wed, Oct 07, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Main Library
Join us for a fun and easy drawing class where we'll make funky, colorful flamingos!... more
Join us for a fun and easy drawing class where we'll make funky, colorful flamingos! Guided by a Budding Artist Miami instructor, participants will learn step-by-step foundational drawing skills to create their own unique tropical flamingos. For more information, please contact the branch at 305-375-2665 or hinzes@mdpls.org. Ages 12-18 yrs.
DIY Depot
Wed, Oct 07, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
West Flagler Branch
Calling all magical creatures! Need to replace your dusty old wand? Come join this... more
Calling all magical creatures! Need to replace your dusty old wand? Come join this workshop taught by the most talented fairy folk. You will find all you need and more, whether you want to create a fantastical design or a more practical piece. Materials will be provided. Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch at (305) 442-8710 or muniasm@mdpls.org. Ages 10 -18 yrs.
Teen Book Cover Trivia
Wed, Oct 07, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Miami Beach Regional
Attention teens! On your mark, get set, and...test your book smarts! Guess the books... more
Attention teens! On your mark, get set, and...test your book smarts! Guess the books by their iconic cover art for a chance to win small prizes. Prizes available while supplies last. For more information, please contact the branch at 305-535-4219 or capleyb@mdpls.org. Ages 12-18 yrs.  
College Success Fair
Wed, Oct 07, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Naranja Branch
Thinking about college? At the College Success fair, you'll get help with applying for... more
Thinking about college? At the College Success fair, you'll get help with applying for financial aid, working on applications, tackling standardized tests, and exploring all your options for life after high school. Parents are welcome, too. Let us help you get ready for your next big step! For more information, contact the branch at gonzalezmi@mdpls.org or 305-242-2290. Ages 14 yrs.+
Teen Typewriter Petting Zoo
Thu, Oct 08, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Miami Beach Regional - Children's Story Room
Teens are invited to get hands on with the power of words in an interactive retro... more
Teens are invited to get hands on with the power of words in an interactive retro typewriter program! Learn how to use a vintage typewriter and create your own short poem by clicking on the keys. For more information, please contact the branch at (305) 535-4219 or capleyb@mdpls.org. Ages 12-18 yrs.
Use Your Voice
Thu, Oct 08, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Westchester Regional
Learn to express yourself and discover the power of your voice in a fun, interactive... more
Learn to express yourself and discover the power of your voice in a fun, interactive workshop with local TV and film professional Mauriett Chayeb-Mendez. After facing childhood bullying, Mauriett found her confidence through voice acting jobs for animated series and anime films that stream all over the world. Hear her inspiring story and take part in a mini vocal lesson that will help you find your own unique voice. For more information, please contact the branch at 305-553-1134 or gonzalezja@mdpls.org. Ages 12-18 yrs.
D&D Side Quest Society
Thu, Oct 08, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Sunset Branch
Create your own fantasy journey and get ready for an adventure like no other. Learn... more
Create your own fantasy journey and get ready for an adventure like no other. Learn how to create your own unique characters, battle against powerful creatures, guide your own campaigns, and cause tons of chaos with your friends using cool dice and the power of your imagination! Materials will be provided. Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch at 305-270-6368 or duartel@mdpls.org. Ages 12 yrs.+
See all events

Book Space

Book Awards

Alex Award

American Library Association’s ten best books written for adults that appeal to teens.

Nonfiction for Young Adults Award

Winner and finalists represent the best nonfiction books published for teens.

Printz Award

Winners selected by the American Library Association as best of the year.

Sunshine State Young Readers’ Award
(Grades 6‑8)

Nominations for the best book as voted by Florida students.

Book Lists

Epic Reads

Young Adult books from A to Z. Including videos, new releases, interviews, top lists and much more!

YALSA Teens’ Top Ten

A “teen choice” list nominated and voted on by teens.

Websites

Book Riot

Book Riot is the largest independent editorial book site in North America, and home to a host of media, from podcasts to newsletters to original content, all designed around diverse readers and across all genres.

Project Gutenberg

Project Gutenberg is a volunteer effort to digitize and archive cultural works, to "encourage the creation and distribution of eBooks". Most of the items in its collection are the full texts of public domain books.

Internet Archive

Internet Archive is a non-profit library of millions of free books, movies, software, music, websites, and more.

What Should I Read Next

Type in the name of a book you like and get recommendations for similar titles!

Teen Book Reviews

Not sure what to read next? Explore book recommendations from local teens at the Miami-Dade Public Library System! Select a title to learn more and scroll down to read reviews written by our teen volunteers.

Homework Help

Websites

Ask a Librarian

Virtual reference services from a Florida librarian through live chat, texting, and email.

Student's Internet Research Guide
Separating Fact vs. Fiction

A guide for ways to search smart, check for credible sources and cite your sources.

Crash Course

Check out the playlists for past courses in physics, philosophy, games, economics, U.S. government and politics, astronomy, anatomy & physiology, world history, biology, literature, ecology, chemistry, psychology, and U.S. history.

Dictionary.com

Look up the meaning of a word.

Hippo Campus

HippoCampus.org is a free, core academic web site that delivers rich multimedia content on general education subjects to teachers and college professors, and their students, free of charge.

Khan Academy

Free video tutorials for math, biology, physics, chemistry, finance and history.

MDPLS Online Homework Help & Tutoring Program

Sign‑up weekly for free one‑on‑one tutoring from certified teachers.

TED‑Ed

A collection of education videos on topics including math, social studies, psychology, science and the arts.

Databases

Enciclopedia Estudiantil Hallazgos

Spanish-language student encyclopedia.

General OneFile
Gale Cengage Learning

One-stop source for millions of full‑text articles, updated daily.

InfoTrac Student Edition
Gale Cengage Learning

Indexed and full-text magazines, newspapers, podcasts, and reference books with information on the arts, science, people, government and history.

Peterson's Test Prep
Gale Cengage Learning

Practice questions bank for math, reading and science and practice tests for various exams.

World Book Online—Info Finder

Encyclopedia, articles, learning resources, and research tools for middle school students.

World Book Online—Reference Center

Encyclopedia, multimedia, eBooks, primary sources and citation builder for high school students.

College

Books

A group of students holding books and supplies over a green gradient background

The Complete Guide to Paying for College

Yellow paper pad with text: Countdown to College: 21 To-Do Lists for High School

Countdown to College
21 “To‑Do” Lists for High School

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2020

Fiske Guide to Colleges 2022

Landscape and Architechture: The K&W Guide to Colleges for Students with Learning Differences

The K&W Guide to Colleges for Students with Learning Differences

The Ultimate Scholarship Book 2022

The Ultimate Scholarship Book 2022

Websites

The ACT

Learn all about the ACT including practice questions and upcoming test dates.

BigFuture by The College Board

Plan for your college future by finding colleges, exploring careers and finding ways to pay for college.

FAFSA

Get help paying for college with a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Florida Department of Education
Office of Student Financial Assistance

Information about student loans and state grants, scholarships & applications.

The SAT

Learn all about the SAT including practice questions and upcoming test dates.

Databases

Accredited Schools Online

A comprehensive accreditation resource for anyone in the process of selecting a college.

LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) 

Teaching thousands of software, creative, and business skills, LinkedIn Learning tutorials are current and effective.

Peterson's Test Prep
Gale Cengage Learning

Online practice tests, prep courses and eBooks for SAT, PSAT, ACT and AP exams. Also, search for colleges and scholarship opportunities.

Peterson's Career Prep
Gale Cengage Learning

Use this database to search thousands of college and graduate school entries. Identify scholarships that meet their financial needs. Take online practice tests and use test prep eBooks to obtain your education goals.

Careers

Books

Grid of avatars depicting various careers with text: Careers

Careers
The Graphic Guide to Finding the Perfect Job for You

Big letter M with text: Girl Mogul

Girl Mogul
dream it. do it. change the world

Separate letters J, O, B & U on small tapestries

Job U
How to Find Wealth and Success by Developing the Skills Companies Actually Need

Orange, yellow background with text: Modernize Your Resume

Modernize Your Resume
Get Noticed… Get Hired

Small paracute illustration with text: What color is your parachute?

What Color is Your Parachute?
A Practical Manual for Job-Hunters and Career-Changers

Websites

Occupational Outlook Handbook

Source for career information covering hundreds of occupations, describing what they do, the work environment and how to become one.

Summerjobs.com

Resource for finding summer jobs and seasonal staff positions for high school and college students.

Databases

Accredited Schools Online

A comprehensive accreditation resource for anyone in the process of selecting a college.

LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) 

Teaching thousands of software, creative, and business skills, LinkedIn Learning tutorials are current and effective.

Peterson's Test Prep
Gale Cengage Learning

Online practice tests and eBooks for career certification exams, resume builder, and career/vo‑tech school search.

Peterson's Career Prep
Gale Cengage Learning

Use this database to search thousands of college and graduate school entries. Identify scholarships that meet their financial needs. Take online practice tests and use test prep eBooks to obtain your education goals.

Health & Relationships

Books

Color wheel with text: Gender Identity

Gender Identity
Beyond Pronouns and Bathrooms

Balloons and confettii with text: Life Sucks

Life Sucks
How to Deal with the Way Life is, Was, and Will Always be Unfair

Zen rock stack with text: Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness and Meditation
Handling Life with a Calm and Focused Mind

Text Positively Teen surrounded by abstract multicolor outlines

Positively Teen
A Practical Guide to a More Positive, More Confident You

Websites

Center for Young Women’s Health

Health information for teen girls including guides, quizzes, chats and more.

Love is Respect

Safe space for teens to access information about healthy dating attitudes and relationships.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline

Find information for you or someone else who is in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.

CORA
Community Overcomming Relationship Abuse

Learn about healthy relationship tools, ways to identify relationship abuse, and resources available to teens.

Teens Health

A place for teens to find honest information and advice about health, emotions and life.

Young Men’s Health

A website for teen guys about health information.

Volunteering & Community Service

Opportunities at the Library

Volunteer at the Library

Teens 16 and older can volunteer in the library.

Plarning

Teens! Earn volunteer hours for school by upcycling plastic bags into plarn (plastic yarn). Please contact the Country Walk Branch Library or Pinecrest Branch Library for more information.

Teen Library Advisory Committee

Teens ages 13 - 19 years can earn volunteer hours while helping make our library an even better place. Make new friends while helping choose books, planning and leading programs and learning new skills.

Write-Up: Teen Book Reviews

Read a book and write a review to be featured in our online catalog. Earn four hours of community service for your contribution. Ages 13 to 19 years.

Websites

Camillus House

Volunteers 14 and older assist Camillus House with helping the poor and homeless.

Children’s Bereavement Center

Help support grieving children and families in our community. Teen volunteers help co-facilitate Bereavement Peer Support Groups.

City Year

Young adults 17‑24 with a high school diploma or GED commit 10 months to full‑time service as tutors and mentors.

DoSomething.org

Become a member and join other young people taking action.

Environmentally Endangered Lands Program

Volunteer to help protect and restore natural areas in Miami‑Dade County.

Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden

Volunteers 16 and older can help with the horticulture, visitor services and special events programs.

HistoryMiami

Teens 14 and up are welcome to volunteer with HistoryMiami.

Marjorie Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center

Volunteers 16 and older can help with Restoration Days and Beach Clean‑ups.

Miami Children’s Museum

Teens 16 and older can interact, teach and inspire museum visitors. Volunteers of all abilities, interests and schedules are needed.

Miami-Dade Animal Services

Make a positive impact on the lives of animals. There are several ways you can help by becoming a volunteer.

Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces
Miami‑Dade County

Volunteer at one of Miami‑Dade County’s parks.

South Florida SPCA

Volunteers 12 and older can volunteer at the ranch working with the horses or at outreach events.