Erie County Public Library has a month of ways for teens to create, play and have a say.
A retro arcade night, a Halloween party and a chance to win a capybara backpack? TeenTober is giving Erie teens plenty of reasons to stop by the library this October. Erie County Public Library has October events for teens who like games, art, spooky stories and making things. They can also try activities on their own for a chance to win prizes.
TeenTober is a chance for teens to explore what the library offers all year, from creative projects to a place to spend time with friends.
This article is sponsored by the Erie County Public Library.
How teens can enter to win TeenTober prizes
Teens ages 13–18 can earn prize tickets by attending a library event or completing activities such as the Literature Scavenger Hunt and the Read Outside the Box challenge. They can also share their opinions through the Teen Survey or Teen Database Review.
Each completed activity gives them another chance to win. The TeenTober prize list includes headphones, art supplies, games, gift cards and more. (Printouts are available at Erie County Public Library locations.)
A few TeenTober events to put on the calendar
Ticket to Read: Library Fall Carnival
Saturday, Oct. 10, 2–4 p.m. | Blasco Library
This one works if you’re bringing younger siblings along. The carnival includes games, performers and treats, with games and crafts for ages 5–12 in the Community Classroom and ages 13–18 in the Teen Space. No registration is required; activities are available while supplies last.
Retro Arcade Night
Monday, Oct. 19, 6–8 p.m. | Blasco Library Teen Space
Teens ages 13–18 can try retro video games, make pixel art, play an arcade-themed board game and grab a snack. No registration is required.
Teen Halloween Party
Saturday, Oct. 24, 1–3 p.m. | Blasco Library Teen Space
Games, music, snacks and a costume contest are on the plan for this free party for ages 13–18. Costumes are encouraged, but your teen can come without one. Registration is required.
Find more TeenTober events
There’s plenty more happening throughout October, including crafts, writing workshops and game clubs at library locations around Erie County. Check the calendar below for dates, ages and registration details:
Teens can help shape the library, too
Erie County Public Library is asking teens ages 13–18 what they want from their library and which services matter most to them. Teens can complete the TeenTober Library Survey at any library location and receive a TeenTober Book Box with a free book and surprises as a thank-you.
Have your teen pick an event that sounds good to them, then take a look at the prize activities. They may find a new reason to keep going to the library after October is over.