Published 13th February 2008, 4:4pm

The Cayman Islands Public Library Services is launching Teen Read Week, a ground-breaking youth literacy initiative. Between February 23 and 29, varied activities are planned under the theme 'CRUNK It @ Ur Library'. Next week's events are designed to encourage teens to read for information and education. However, Teen Read Week is also 'for the fun of it,' aimed at turning recreational reading into a lifelong habit since it is accepted that reading not only improves grades, it also leads to a lifetime of learning and enjoyment. This initiative is a joint venture between the Cayman Islands Public Library Service, government's Youth Services Unit, and the Cayman Islands Youth Development Consortium which is a non-government organization. Organizers state that the programme is directed at 'helping youth to develop the literacy skills that they need to fully participate in an information society.' Teens are encouraged to visit any public or school Library during the target week to read or borrow books. Libraries will be encouraging new teen members and will allow overdue books to be returned without the customary fine during a Teen Read Week amnesty. Parents are also encouraged to celebrate with their teenagers. Suggestions include visiting the library with teens to check out books; setting nightly timetables for the family to read, or giving books or magazine subscriptions to youngsters as gifts or rewards. Teen Read Week opens with a talent show at the Harquail Theatre on Saturday, February 23. Other fun activities include karaoke singing, a 'Book to Movies' evening, a 'Teen Public Service Day event', a workshop and a panel discussion on literacy. Teenagers can also participate in writing, book reviews, drawing/illustrating and a cartoon/anime competition, as well as a photo contest. There will be lots of prizes and giveaways for all participants. Organizations supporting Teen Read Week include Cayman National Cultural Foundation, Cayman Islands Television Network (CITN), The Camera Store, Funky Tangs, Winner's Circle, Sport N Zone and Tatianna's Heaven on Earth. Volunteers are also encouraged and welcomed. For further information please contact Juliet Lawson at 949-5159/ 517-7494 or James Myles at 943-1127/ 938-FLEX.