Teens can access free RTA youth passes to get to the Library, thanks to generous funding from the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library. The Teen Read and Ride initiative was first introduced to the Library during last year’s Summer Fun Program. Now, the Library is excited to announce Teen Read and Ride will be a year-round service.
Amy Wander, head of youth programming at the New Orleans Public Library, said the service aims to reduce transportation barriers that might prevent youth from accessing all the free, fun, and helpful resources their public libraries offer.
“From homework and study resources to help them succeed in schools, engaging programs and events, and even just a place to hang out after school, where there’s no expectation for them to spend money, the Library is a great place for our city’s teens and tweens,” Wander said.
“We hope this service helps encourage them to visit our locations and see what we’re all about, which is way more than just books.”
Shannan Cvitanovic, executive director of the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library, said the RTA program was a success last summer and she’s thrilled to extend the service.
“Getting from place to place independently can be a hurdle for young people who aren’t old enough to drive or who don’t have access to a vehicle,” Cvitanovic said. “By providing free RTA passes, we hope to not only remove a financial burden, but also inspire youth to come into the Library in their free time.”
The Youth RTA day passes are available at all Library locations for anyone ages 11 to 18. They will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that locations may run out of passes, but will be restocked as quickly as possible.
In addition to the Teen Read and Ride program, the Library hosts regular Teen Lounge events at a variety of locations. During these programs, teens can stop by, grab a snack, play games, and provide feedback for how the Library can better serve them. Download the NOLALibrary app or check out our calendar at events.nolalibrary.org to find a Teen Lounge near you, or dozens of other great programming for teens and tweens at Library locations around the city.
Teen Lounge programming is also sponsored by the Friends of the New Orleans Public Library. Visit nolalibrary.org/youth to learn more about all the resources the Library offers for children, tweens, and teens.
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2 thoughts on “Read and Ride: Get To The Library With Free Youth RTA Passes”
I think the Youth Pass is a brilliant and wonderful idea. I just feel like we should have more than “they will run out so come and get yours first” because that automatically puts people at a disadvantage who can’t get to the library quickly enough to claim one. Thank you!
Thanks so much for letting us know this is a valuable offering to patrons. We do not have an ongoing funding supply at this time for this project. We will continue to look for funding opportunities to continue this well received offering.