Q. What is The MIX?

The Mix at SFPL is an innovative, teen-designed, 21st century Connected Learning space that provides 4,770-square feet of space and equipment for youth ages 12-18 to explore, create and develop digital media and computer skills as well as discover and engage with the Library’s traditional books and materials. Outfitted with state-of-the-art digital media, video/sound recording, computer and creative maker equipment, teens can expand their imaginations as well as their technology and literacy skills and engage in individual and team projects that promote critical thinking, inventiveness and skill building.

Initiated with a planning grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the MacArthur Foundation, with additional financial support provided by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library, The Mix is a collaboration with the Bay Area Video Coalition (BAVC), California Academy of Sciences, and KQED. The Mix at SFPL is part of the , a national collaboration of informal learning spaces for youth that share the following hallmarks:

• Provide a balance of opportunities for hanging out, messing around, and geeking out (HOMAGO);
• Provide multiple ways for a diversity of youth to engage within the program space;
• Prioritize a culture of equity, inclusion, and youth leadership;
• Give access to tools, technology, and people who support learning, self-expression, creativity, critical thinking, and innovation;
• Employ mentors who are dedicated to the YOUmedia approach;
• Design clear pathways and opportunities that enable youth to apply skills in meaningful ways.

All activities and services at The Mix are free. For more information, please contact Cathy Cormier, Teen Center Manager, (415) 437-4857 or catherine.cormier@sfpl.org.

Follow The Mix at SFPL @themixatsfpl on Instagram.

Board of Advising Youth (BAY)

The San Francisco Public Library Board of Advising Youth (BAY) is a unique leadership opportunity for high school and early college-age individuals. Being a BAY member gives a diverse set of teens first hand experience as part of an advisory board that consults on the programmatic components of The Mix at SFPL, which encompasses all teen services components of the San Francisco Public Library. Members are expected to attend weekly board meetings as well as take ownership of different elements of the board, including marketing, finance, and project management. Not only do BAY members get a jumpstart on their resumes by learning how to operate many facets of a business, they also get to have a lot of fun by attending programs they've helped design at The Mix at Main, the teen digital media lab and makerspace in The Main Library.

Board of Advising Youth applicants should be in 9th or 10th grade. Placement in the BAY is arranged via a formal application process as positions become available. For more information, please contact themix@sfpl.org