What do you imagine your future career might look like? Do you see yourself as a doctor? A software engineer? An artist? A paleontologist? Whatever path you’re dreaming of, the library is here to support you every step of the way.
Not sure what you want to pursue yet? That’s OK too. The library is a great place to explore possibilities, discover new interests and start finding the path that feels right for you.
Below you’ll find library events, resources and books especially for teens to help you begin exploring different careers.
Online Resources, Accessible Anywhere with Your Library Card
- BrainFuse: HelpNow: Doing well in school stands out on any resume. If you’re applying to colleges or would just like a bit of extra help with certain subjects, use BrainFuse: HelpNow, which provides access to live tutors daily. It also has a lot of useful tips for strengthening your writing.
- Pronunciator: Have you ever dreamed of being a translator for anime and manga? Or thought about moving to another country? Pronunciator is a language learning app that offers courses and daily lessons in more than 300 languages. Pick the language you want to learn and practice with Pronunciator until you’re fluent.
- Udemy: For pretty much anything you want to learn, there’s likely to be an Udemy course for it. Whether it’s coding, painting, marketing, game design or something else, simply sign up for an Udemy account, search for what you’re looking to learn and browse various courses.
Browse our Learn New Skills page for further career resources.
Programs and In-Library Opportunities
- Volunteer at the Library: Learn real-world life skills and help the Burlington County Library System at the same time through our volunteer program. We’re currently looking for teen volunteers. Fill out the volunteer form if you’re interested.
- The Scribble Society: If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a bestselling author, then The Scribble Society is for you. (Honestly, even if you don’t want to be a writer, knowing how to write well can help with lots of different jobs!) Each month the group focuses on a different element of writing, such as plot, character development or world-building, then experiments with that element in fun writing exercises. The group meets the second Wednesday of the month at Burlington County Library from 5 to 6 pm.
- Career Q&A: Graphic Design: Calling all teens and young adults interested in graphic design! On March 3 at 6 pm, a graphic designer will be at BCL to chat about the graphic design field, schooling, freelancing and more. If you’re interested, come by and bring any questions! Keep an eye out for more Career Q&A events in the future, too!
Be sure to check the upcoming events for teens at the start of each month. We’re always adding new ones that may spark your curiosity and help you build skills for your career.
Books to Check Out
- Careers: The Graphic Guide to Finding the Perfect Job for You: Find the perfect job for your skills and personality with this helpful guide that features over 400 careers. Picking a career path can be daunting, but with this book, it’s a breeze.
- What Color is Your Parachute? For Teens by Carol Christen: Allow yourself the time to discover who you are, and then you’ll discover the career that’s just right for you. What Color is Your Parachute? is one of the best career exploration books out there, with exercises proven to help you find your way.
- You Got This! by Maya S. Penn: Maybe you already know what you want to do and just need some encouragement to start taking steps toward it. That’s where You Got This! comes in. Penn became an entrepreneur while she was still in middle school. And she wants you to know that you can achieve your dreams, too. This book is a reassuring pat on the back.
