Express Yourself

Share on Facebook

The New Year is the perfect time for exploring your interests and trying new things. Everyone is creative in some way, and it’s fun to have a hobby. But how do you know how to develop your talent or passion? The library offers a variety of ways. Read about these teens who are getting the most out of their libraries — and making the most of themselves.

Getting Her Act Together

Lauren Omernik, 17

“My hobby, extracurricular activity and deepest passion is acting,” says Omernik. She’s been acting since she was seven years old, and she regularly performs in school plays and in various community theatres.

Omernik says The Portage County Public Library, in Steven Points, Wisc., has been “an excellent resource” for her to develop her talent.

“Before I audition for a show, I always visit the library to look for the show’s script, original cast recording and/or video of the show,” she says. “This type of research helps me prepare for my audition because I become familiar with the show and can see how others have interpreted the roles I’m auditioning for.”

Omernik also finds inspiration by checking out nonfiction books on acting and famous actors. Other resources she utilizes at her library include Broadway musical soundtracks and various monologue books to help her prepare for her planned college major: theater.

“I have learned about so many shows that I never knew existed, read tips from professional actors that I would have never known on my own and listened to performances from spectacular, legendary actors that I probably will never see live,” she says. “The library has been such a great resource to me, and I know it will continue to prove invaluable as I move on in my performance career.”

There’s No Present Like One’s Time

Sarah Geiger, 15

“When I was in eighth grade, I was struck by the thought of volunteering somewhere with all my spare time,” says Geiger. “I immediately thought of the library. It has always been a comfort to me — a familiar place.”

She currently volunteers at least two hours every week at the Port Orchard Library in Washington.

“After volunteering, I attend teen meetings held every Monday where we discuss things that would be beneficial to our library, exercise our creativity or relax after a hard day of school.”

Geiger says that volunteering at her library has helped her make new friends who share her interests and values. She enjoys the relaxed environment and exploring her creativity through the library’s writing contest and small zine. She also feels that her involvement has made her more aware of the community’s needs.

“Volunteering has helped me realize that there is importance to helping around the community,” she says.

Something to Write Home About

Ivy Engwall, 15

“My love of writing came about the long way,” says Engwall. “I’ve always loved to read — ever since I learned how, and I’ve written poetry since kindergarten.”

But when Engwall became more involved in her writing several years ago, The Portage County Public Library, helped to nurture her passion.

“After all, it was the place where I could get books into my hands,” she says. “The more reading I do, the more tips and techniques I can pick up.”

Engwall checks out books that give writing advice to budding authors. She also took part in a summer reading program where the library brought in Patrick Rothfuss, author of The Name of the Wind, to talk to young adults in the community.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the session,” she says. “The program was one of the best things for helping advance my writing. I am so grateful that my library had this program that I was able to come to, free of cost.”