Yes! Hampton Bays Public Library offers a wide variety of community service opportunities for teens in grades 7–12. These are designed to be meaningful, creative, and engaging — and many qualify for school or organizational service hours (please check with your specific group).
Ongoing Monthly Opportunities:
- Adoptagram (off-site): Visit the Southampton Animal Shelter to help promote adoptable animals via photos, videos, and social media content. (2.5 hours)
- Teen Leadership Council / Teen Advisory Board (TAB): Help plan programs, suggest new materials, and support library events.
- Book Buddies: Read with younger children to support early literacy (school year only).
- Lego Buddies: Assist young children with Lego building (1 hour/month).
- Twice Told Tales Volunteer: Help organize and support the Friends of the Library bookshop. (1–5 hours, Wed/Sat)
- Teens Teach: Create “how-to” videos to share on the library’s social media.
- Teen Takeover: Design and lead your own program at the library!
In-Library Community Service Kits:
We almost always have community service kits available inside the library for teens who need flexible service options.
- Each kit takes about 1 hour to complete.
- You can do up to 3 kits per month.
- Each different kit can only be done once per month.
- Kits must be completed inside the library.
Seasonal & Special Projects:
- Books Beyond Boundaries (discussion-based book program – 2 hours per book)
- Cold/Hot Weather Kits, Coming Out Support Kits, DIY Bee Houses
- Spring Festival Support, Summer Beach Cleanups, Art Activism Projects
- Youth Connect – OLA of Eastern LI
Important Notes:
- Registration is required for most programs and can be done online, in person, or by phone.
- A QR code is posted in the Teen Area for quick access to current openings.
- Hours are given at the librarian’s discretion and based on participation and quality of work. Please check with your school or organization for eligibility.
We’re proud to offer teens a chance to contribute to the community in fun, thoughtful, and meaningful ways!