Traditionally "Silence" is the operative word in libraries, but there's little about the Bermuda Youth Library that's traditional.

In addition to borrowing books to read on their own, young people have the opportunity to meet other young people from across the Island through a number of clubs hosted by the library on Church Street.

Saturdays are particularly busy. In the morning there's story time for toddlers aged three and over at 10.30 a.m.

From noon girls aged eight to thirteen meet with members of Phenomenal Women, Inc., to discuss issues of interest to young women.

Currently the young women are exploring their own sense of fashion style and glamour and learning hip hop dance.

In the afternoon, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., everyone between eight and 20 years of age is welcome to meet their match on the chess board.

On Tuesdays after school from 3.45 to 5, the local chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity organise activities for boys aged eight to 13.

The aim of the programme is to help with academic development and to make reading a fun and enjoyable experience.

Reading, comprehension and listening skills are developed through interesting young adult literature, newspapers and other reference materials.

One afternoon might find the young men discussing their favourite book, something they're currently reading or a topic they've researched.

The young men also develop public speaking skills as part of the activities.

Another time, they may have a guest lecturer talking about a specific career opportunity or the opportunity to challenge an opponent to a game of chess.

The clubs allow young people to meet in small groups of their peers to share their interests, concerns, successes and challenges.

While the activities are supervised, the programme is casual, and young people can attend as they are able, without having to commit to a set number of weeks. They are free of charge and open to all young Bermuda residents.

For more information and registration, contact the Bermuda Youth Library by telephoning 295-0487.