The Santa Monica Public Library Teen Council endeavors to get teens involved in
the community via the library, giving teens a voice and empowering them through involvement.

Local teens, along with librarian mentors, publicize and sponsor programs (among other activities) of interest to teens. Last spring, they expressed interest in hosting a program with the Santa Monica Animal Shelter. It took a few months to pull all of the pieces together, as most events do. Leading up to the event, the Teen Council sponsored a pet supply drive collecting food and comfort items that could be donated to the shelter.

Then came the big day. Animal Control arrived with a portable double sized crate with 8-week old kittens and a bulldog named Benson. The kittens were ready to play from the minute they arrived and Benson wanted to love on everyone.

Whether or not library-goers were there specifically for the event, they were greeted by an ecstatic bulldog at the entrance. In the corner, the teens hosted cat and dog toy crafts creating. Kids were delighted at the prospect of doing an art project that helped the puppies and kitties.

And I was invited to speak about “What to Expect When Adopting a Dog” during the event as well!

What I loved most about the program is that it was an interactive yet safe way for kids and teens to learn about animals and the shelter, volunteer, participate, and give back. It brought the shelter out into the community in a welcoming environment raising awareness and spirits.

Finally… drumroll please… Benson found a fabulous home, and judging by all the loving the kittens got, they are going to have a new family soon too!