101 Space at Joel D. Valdez Main Library
Our Vision
Our vision is a thriving youth community where all youth are passionate, empowered, connected, and use their voice to create a better world. We will do this by providing opportunities for young people to explore, and develop their curiosities in collaboration with adult and peer mentors.
Guiding Principles
Pima County Public Library is dedicated to creating an environment that fosters connected learning and actively engages youth voice. Connected learning makes learning relevant to every teen through interest driven, real life and real work experiences that reflects the ever changing landscape of the digital age.
This will be achieved by implementing the research-based HOMAGO model; hang out, mess around, geek out. Connected learning through HOMAGO provides a framework for life-long learning and active participation in the learning process.
PCPL’s dedication to fostering youth voice is demonstrated through active participation by youth. Youth will be partners in decision-making and program development, and will gain leadership experience that will help them become leaders in the center and the community.
Our Values
Access: We are committed to accessibility on many levels—physical, economic, social, virtual, etc.
Community: The atmosphere of the space will cultivate a greater sense of community—among youth themselves and with peer and adult mentors.
Learning: Youth programming will be interest-driven, peer-supported and connected to real world opportunities.
Safe and Welcome: The space, people and policies will allow youth to feel welcome without being unsafe because of the identities they inhabit.
Youth Voice: Youth throughout our community will actively participate in decision-making and opinion-sharing.
What is 101 Space and who is it for?
101 Space was designed for Tucson’s youth, ages 13-18. This is a safe space for all Tucson’s teens to hang out––everybody is welcome.
101 Space is a place to hang out with your friends! It’s a place to play around with cool technology! It’s a place to learn something you’ve always wanted from a Tucson expert! It’s a place to learn skills to get the job that you really want! And, most importantly, it’s a place to have your voice heard.
If you have an idea for an event you want to have, if you have a group that needs a meeting space, or if you’ve always wanted to learn about programming, come in and let us know!
How can I be involved and volunteer?
Our 101 Space could use a little bit of everything. If you’re skilled in a certain subject or have any interest in mentoring for teens, you would be very helpful.
If you’re a teen who wants to make a difference in your community or a teen who needs inspiration our center is good for you. Talk to your librarian about opportunities to volunteer.
