What grade do I need to be in to participate in Teen Summer Reading?

Students rising to grades 7-12 and recent high school graduates are eligible to participate in O'Neal Library's Teen Summer Reading program.  

Can I participate in more than one Summer Challenge on Beanstack? 

ABSOLUTELY! You can participate in the Teen Reading Challenge and Teen Challenge Yourself simultaneously! This may double your chance of winning prizes at the end of July.

How do I register for Teen Summer Reading? 

All our Teen Summer Challenges will be available for registration on Sunday, May 18, 2025.

Step 1: Go to the O'Neal Library Beanstack Site and login or create an account.

Step 2: Once you are logged into Beanstack, go to the "Challenges" tab and follow the website's instructions to finalize your registration.

Don't forget to continually log your pages and program attendance throughout the summer!

Will I get extra credit in school for participating in ONL’s Teen Summer Reading? 

No, the O’Neal Library’s Teen Summer Reading CANNOT reward extra school credit for participation. 

However, you CAN enter your required reading books into Beanstack for a chance to win a prize in the Reading Challenge!

Are there programs and event for teens at the O'Neal Library?  

Yes! Programs for teens will be on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays in June and July 2025. Some of them are located AWAY from the O'Neal Library, so double-check the locations of Monday events. You'll find the full list of activities on the Teen Events Calendar! Registration for summer fun and volunteer opportunities opens on May 18.

Do I have to register for the teen programs to participate? 

Yes, registration may be required for some of the teen programs. Read each event description and signup when it is an option. Registration helps O'Neal Library staff know to expect you and prepare enough supplies for everyone.

Does the O'Neal Library offer any volunteer opportunities for teens? 

We are so glad you asked! The O'Neal Library's Summer of Service program series for teens returns: learn and serve a new community every Monday this summer! The O'Neal Library has partnered with several local nonprofits, such as The Greater Birmingham Humane Society, The Way Station, Community Foodbank of Central America, and The Cahaba River Society to facilitate volunteer events at O'Neal Library and outside of it. It'll be an adventure! 

Teens may also receive volunteer hours for participating in our Teen Advisory Board meetings. Not a TAB member? Visit Teen's Homepage and fill out an application for the Teen Advisory Board. We meet once a month (virtually and in-person) for an hour to discuss what YOU want to see and experience at your library. 

Have more questions? Email young adult librarians Michelle Cheng and Gracie Roth at teens@oneallibrary.org!