Inaugural Teen Advisory and Advocacy Board class to showcase creative visions for the libraries of tomorrow during Nov. 7 ceremony
Hillsborough County, Fla. (Nov. 5, 2026) - Forty Hillsborough County teens are helping write the next chapter for local libraries. Hillsborough County Public Libraries will celebrate the inaugural class of its Teen Advisory and Advocacy Board (TAAB) during a certificate ceremony Saturday, Nov. 7.
The five-month volunteer program gave high school students ages 14 to 18 a voice in shaping library services and programs for their generation while earning 100 community service hours upon successful completion. Since July, students have participated in monthly meetings, explored library resources and operations, and provided feedback on ways to improve teen engagement, accessibility, and programming. Along the way, they developed leadership, communication, and civic engagement skills.
As part of the celebration, students will showcase their individual "Your Future Library" poster projects, highlighting their visions for how libraries can evolve to meet the needs of future generations. The projects explore ideas involving technology, creativity, learning, and community spaces. Students will be recognized for their contributions and presented with certificates and portfolios.
Teen Advisory and Advocacy Board Certificate Ceremony
Date: Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Robert W. Saunders, Sr. Public Library, 1505 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa, FL 33602
Student Project Showcase: 10-11:30 a.m.
Certificate Ceremony: 11:30 a.m.
The program is coordinated by the Library's Community Engagement Team and sponsored by the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County.
For more information about teen volunteer opportunities with Hillsborough County Public Libraries, visit HCPLC.org/about/volunteer.