Bit to Do

Some people may think of antiquated books, research papers, and absolutely mind-numbing silence when anyone mentions the library.  On Friday, July 13, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., nothing could be farther from the truth. When the doors close to the public at 5 p.m., the Louisville Free Public Library’s main building, located at 301 York Street, will transform for the second annual Survivor Night, a teen-only haven filled with fun, games, and loud music.

Survivor Night encourages teens to use imagination and creativity as they participate in a series of workshops and games inspired by books they may have read during the library’s annual Teen Summer Reading Program. All local teens, ages 12 through 19, can participate in Survivor Night even if they haven’t completed the reading program.

A full list of Survivor Night exhibits, games, and activities are listed below.

• Astronaut Training 101 – Suit-up in overalls and thick gloves to face physical challenges and an obstacle course.
• Egg Drop Survival Contest – Create an egg carrier and see if it survives a drop into the South Lobby. This activity is presented by a physics professor from The Speed School of Engineering.
• “Fear Factor” – Physical challenges and taste testing inspired by the hit TV show.
• “Glee” Karaoke – Ready for Sectionals? Prove it!
• “Hunger Games” – Defeat the Capital in activities inspired by the popular Suzanne Collins book series.
• I Can’t Survive without Facebook – Can’t leave social media for more than a few minutes at a time? Visit the Teen Underground Center, to check-in on Facebook, update statuses, or like the library’s page.
• “Pride and Passion” – A nationally traveling exhibit that examines the challenges faced by African-American baseball players as they sought equal opportunities in the sport. The exhibit includes several artifacts from the Louisville Slugger Museum's collection.
• QR Code Scavenger Hunt – Use smart phone technology to search for clues throughout the library.
• When Animals Attack: How to Survive an Animal Attack – Survival techniques presented by Metro Animal Services.
• Concert – Local band Forever Fades Away will perform a free concert.

Teens are encouraged to register for Survivor Night by calling ahead or visiting the Website, but no teen will be turned away. Parents are welcome to stay for the evening, but teen services supervisor, Peter Howard says they may enjoy going elsewhere without their kids for a few hours. “Parents are going to quickly realize this is a safe place,” Howard said. “The only people here will be the teens and library staff.”

Teens still have another month to complete the Teen Summer Reading Program. Simply pick up a Teen Summer Reading card from any library branch, read four books, magazines, or graphic novels and do four of the activities listed on the card. Teens who return the card to any library location by August 11 are eligible for a list of great prizes, including a USB flash drive, passes to local attractions, and free drinks and desserts. Completion of the program also enters them to win Grand Prize $100 Barnes & Noble gift cards and a Super Grand Prize laptop.

Photo courtesy of Louisville Free Public Library.