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Explore Ways to be Positive, Safe on Social Media With Alexa Chalnick and SCLSNJ

About Blog Post Oct 7, 2020 by Pressroom
Recent data from Pew Research Center states that “97 percent of 13 through 17-year-olds use at least one of seven major online platforms” including Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. On October 26 at 4 p.m., teens in grades 6-12 will have the opportunity to connect with social media phenom Alexa Chalnick and the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey (SCLSNJ) through a virtual program.  During the program Chalnick will share ways to use social media to create a positive online presence and hold an interactive Q&A session. “Given the current climate that teens are living in, where the predominant means of communication is the internet, it is essential that young adults explore ways to navigate social media and the internet in a smart, safe manner,” said Jodi Silverman, young adult and adult librarian. “Alexa is a positive role model, who found success through her talents on social media platforms.” Chalnick, who has over 600,000 followers on social media, is best known for her engaging songwriting challenges and #SingForAlexa videos. She encourages teens to not only use social media to help boost their confidence in a safe, positive manner, but also to use it as a tool to make their mark. “Even though social media may get a bad reputation it can be a positive force when used correctly,” said Chalnick. “There are many safe places to be on the internet, you just need to know where to look. Using social media platforms have really helped boost my self-esteem and creativity. I truly believe it can also help individuals achieve their goals.” Continued Chalnick, “In this day in age, especially for those applying to colleges, or looking for their first jobs, people grab a sense of who you are and what you do based on your social media profiles. Teens also need to be aware that once something is on the internet, it stays on the internet. Even if they delete it.” This program was inspired by TeenTober, an initiative of the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA). TeenTober is a national celebration hosted by libraries every October that “aims to celebrate teens, promote year-round teen services and the innovative ways teen services helps teens learn new skills, and fuel their passions in and outside the library.” For more information or to register for the program: sclsnj.libnet.info/event/4479984. #BeSafeAtHome and explore virtual TeenTober programs at SCLSNJ: Intro to Robotics - Sensor (grades 6-12) LEAD - Leadership Exploration and Development Club (grades 6-8) Young Adult Crossover Club - “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen (grades 6-12) RISE - Reach, Inspire, Serve, Empower (grades 7-12) Understanding the College Essay (grades 9-12) Two Sentence Scary Story Club (grades 5-7) Discover these programs and more with your Library: SCLSNJ.org.
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