Festive fun arrives at the Stillwater Public Library for teens on Dec. 15


Story provided by Stillwater Public Library

The Stillwater Public Library (SPL) will hold a “Teen Holiday Party” on Friday, Dec. 15, from 5-8 p.m. Teens in grades six through 12 are invited to enjoy an entertaining evening of winter treats, games and fun.

Attendees will create tiny gingerbread houses out of graham crackers and candy with their friends. Everyone who makes a house will get to eat their creation, but one lucky winner who makes the most impressive treat will win a $25 gift card donated by Ted’s Tacos and Cantina.

Teens will also participate in a white elephant gift exchange, a game of gift stealing and mischievousness. Participants should bring one random, wrapped gift valued at $10 or below to use for the game. There will be a few extra gifts and books available for those who cannot bring one. Every teen that attends will receive a gift.

Jordan Stine, SPL teen librarian, is looking forward to holding his second holiday party.

“My very first teen program at the library was a winter celebration,” Stine said. “I can’t wait to host another night of seasonal fun!” 

Snacks for the party will consist of graham cracker gingerbread houses, pizza, hot chocolate and other goodies provided by the Friends of the Stillwater Public Library.

The Alliance of Therapy Dogs will also be in attendance with volunteers and their therapy dogs. Trainers will allow the teens to meet and play with a fluffy friend or two.

Kane Mach, assistant principal of Stillwater Junior High School and member of the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, cannot wait to bring his dog Junee to the party.

“My therapy dog Junee primarily works in the Stillwater Public Schools setting,” Mach said. “I watch staff, students and community members’ demeanor instantly change, and the happiness on their faces grow as they engage with her.”

Stine also looks forward to having therapy dogs for the teens to enjoy during the party.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to have the Alliance of Therapy Dogs helping us out,” Stine said. “We all love dogs here at the library, so the librarians are looking forward to the program too!”

The “Teen Holiday Party” is free and open to all teens in Payne County. The library requests that those interested in attending register online at tinyurl.com/SPLTeenHolidayParty or by calling (405) 372-3633 x8106. Registration is preferred to help the librarian be sure there are enough snacks and extra gifts for everyone. Registrants will also receive email and text reminders about the program.

The Stillwater Public Library is located at 1107 S. Duck St. Library hours are Monday- Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.