After several months of planning, work, and fine-tuning, Amarillo Public Library is launching its own Teen Discord!
Discord is an online communication platform that has text chat, voice chat, and organized channels. It’s similar to school and workplace platforms like Teams, but more customizable and more fun! APL’s Teen Discord will be an online space where teens can build community by joining clubs for book discussions, gaming, art, role-playing games like D&D, and other library activities in an environment moderated by APL staff and trained teen mentors.
The Discord channel will be open to teens ages 13 through high-school graduation who have an Amarillo Public Library card. Parents do not join the server, but parental oversight is encouraged. Trained APL staff and approved teen volunteers will serve as moderators.
APL Digital Outreach Coordinator Maggie Elder says that when used correctly, Discord is a useful tool for helping teens interact in a safe and respectful online space. “”Our world is digital now, and teens need safe places to learn how to navigate it, but many social media platforms can negatively affect teens’ mental and emotional health,” says Elder. “Our goal with APL’s Discord is that it will be a really positive space. With active moderation, it lets teens connect, share their interests, and participate in library programs in a safe way.”
Interested teens may sign up in person at the Downtown Amarillo Public Library. Online sign-ups will not be permitted so APL can ensure that only teens from the Panhandle region are participating on the Discord Channel. Participants must be approved by APL staff, so unknown users will not be able to join the channel.
APL’s Digital Outreach staff has planned an IRL (in real life) Discord Launch Party for Tuesday, December 9 from 5:30 to 6:30 PM at the Downtown Amarillo Public Library. Interested teens are welcome to come and ask questions!
For more information, please contact the Youth and Information Desk at the Downtown Amarillo Public Library.