National Support Teen Literature Day
National Support Teen Literature Day is a dedicated observance that raises awareness about young adult literature and promotes reading among teenagers. It aims to highlight the importance of teen literature while addressing the declining trend of recreational reading among young people.
Quick Facts
When is it: Thursday during National Library Week (second full week of April)
Tagged as: Teen Literature Awareness Day
What’s the hashtag: #SupportTeenLiteratureDay
When was it founded: 2011
Who founded it: Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA)
History of Support Teen Literature Day
The day emerged from growing concerns about declining reading habits among teenagers. It was established to showcase exceptional YA authors and highlight the Young Adult genre, emphasizing the vital role of literature in developing empathy and perspective among teens.
Timeline
- 1980: 60% of high school seniors read daily outside homework
- 1992: First smartphone appears, changing teen reading habits
- 1997: First social media site launches
- 2011: First Support Teen Literature Day celebration
- 2016: Teen daily reading drops to 16%
Dates 2025-2030
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 10 | Thursday |
| 2026 | April 09 | Thursday |
| 2027 | April 08 | Thursday |
| 2028 | April 13 | Thursday |
| 2029 | April 12 | Thursday |
| 2030 | April 11 | Thursday |
How It’s Observed
Libraries and schools organize special events, book readings, and author visits. Families participate through reading nights and library visits, while educators showcase YA literature through various activities and discussions.
Fun Facts About Teen Literature
- YA literature is one of the fastest-growing book genres
- Teen literature often tackles complex social issues
- Many YA books have been adapted into successful movies
- The genre spans multiple formats including graphic novels and audiobooks
Quiz
- Which Shakespeare character was 13 years old? (Answer: Juliet)
- Who wrote “Alice in Wonderland? (Answer: Lewis Carroll)
- Who authored “The Jungle Book”? (Answer: Rudyard Kipling)
FAQs
- What is considered Young Adult literature?
- Books primarily written for readers aged 12-18
- Why is teen literature important?
- It helps develop empathy, critical thinking, and literacy skills
- How can adults support teen literature?
- By encouraging reading, discussing books, and visiting libraries
Related Events
- National Library Week
- School Library Month
- National Book Month
- Teen Read Week
- National Reading Day