At The Book Works
We offer youth-centered programs that help young people build skills for success in work, school and life. All youth participating are also connected with an Education Advocate to assist with accessing academic and related services in school and the community.
Neighborhood Youth Board
A team of 15 youth and young adults (13 to 21) learn about their own identities and capacities, get to know their community, and work together to make positive changes. The Book Works’ NYB is part of a growing network of social justice youth development teams across Louisville. Apply Now
Self-Advocacy Workshops
These workshops help young people learn about their rights to and within school, how to navigate education systems, and ways to use their voice to reach their education and career goals. Participants also learn how to help their peers to be strong self-advocates through mentornship and information sharing.
Summer Youth Team
Each summer, The Book Works hires a small team of young people to develop projects and events for youth and young adults in their community. Prior teams have developed a workshop “Taking Action with Courage”, a film series, bookshelves and free books for teens in neighborhood community sites.
Artist Collective
This series of art classes is offered three times a year (weekly for 5 weeks) at The Book Works. Participants build community, learn how art is a path to empowerment, and practice trying out new forms of art in a supportive space.
Social Justice Film Series
Young people identify the themes and titles that interest them including racial and cultural identity, public safety and the justice system, gender identity and orientation, economic justice, mental health and healing, and healthy intimate relationships. Participants attending the movies receive free books, food, and the opportunity to earn a gift card.
Banned Books & Biscuits
Books and media with content on topics important to young people are being challenged in school and public libraries. The Book Works’ Banned Book & Biscuits offers youth and young adults a supportive space to learn about why it is important to stand up to challenges and discuss the topics. This series if offered weekly for five weeks throughout the yesr.