There’s so much learning and fun for teens at the library in summer 2026! Explore programs, clubs, spaces and more that are all teens, all the time.
All year long, teens can gather with their community across the Multnomah County Library system in different teen spaces — whether you want to play video games, talk with friends, use free tech, check out a good read, or just hang out somewhere other than home, the library has a space for you.
Visual learning fun
Learn through what you see? Love a visual aid when you’re processing info? You may enjoy:
- Exploring the history of zines and making your own at different libraries throughout the summer.
- Learning how to draw and paint with walnut ink on July 13 at Hollywood Library.
- Exploring smartphone photo editing tips on August 12 at Capitol Hill Library
- Seeing art at the Collins Gallery and getting inspired.
- Viewing rare books and materials (like an 11,000 year old clay tablet!) in the John Wilson Special Collections.
- Learning new skills through video courses you can access with your library card.
- Watching documentaries and movies through the Kanopy collection or perusing videos and comics on Hoopla.
Language learning fun
Process best through the written word? Boy howdy, do we have some fun learning opportunities for you. Try:
- Telling a collaborative story at a Teen Dungeons and Dragons session at East County Library
- Getting rewarded for reading through the Summer Reading program.
- Exploring college help and prepping for your academic future with different library resources.
- Checking out e-books and audiobooks just for teens on Libby Teens.
- Learning a new language online with Mango Languages.
Tactile and creative learning fun
Love to work with your hands? Want to make something brand-new? You know we’ve got options for you. Explore:
- Learning how to make summer herbal treats on July 11 at Northwest Library
- Picking up knitting or crochet skills in beginner classes at Midland Library
- Practicing henna techniques at different libraries throughout the summer
- Curating a spa day by making bath bombs and rejuvenating scrubs
- Making a delicious, healthy smoothie on July 25 at Northwest Library
- Learning how to make fresh crepes on July 28 at North Portland Library
- Making tie dye art on July 30 at Rockwood Library
- Learning the art of felting and taking home a spiky plant friend
- Stopping by a drop-in maker session and creating something new
Teen summer camps and multi-day events
If you’re itching for more learning and want to explore library summer camps and other multi-day learning opportunities, try:
- Diving into the world of electronics in our From Wires to Wonders summer camp at Rockwood Library.
- Learning how to go viral at Rockwood Library’s Video Creation Camp.
- Building your cooking skills at Chef Edurne’s Cooking Camp at Holgate Library.
- Getting your babysitter certification at Safety Side Up’s two-day Babysitter Training camp.
These camps require registration, so make sure to sign up early if you’re interested!
Teen clubs and regular gatherings
Don’t forget, teen learning and fun happens year-round at the library — not just during summer break. Stop by your local library and:
- Gather with your community at the weekly Queer Youth Club.
- Play games and eat snacks at a teen video game club.
- Make new friends and help your community at a teen council session.
- Flex your creative muscles at a teen art gathering.