The New York Public Library, Brooklyn Public Library, and Queens Public Library have announced commitments totaling $4.5 million from  Google.org, the Best Buy Foundation, and the Joly Family Foundation to provide vital resources and services for New York City youth.

As part of a new public-private partnership designed to help young adults create opportunities for future success, the city’s library systems will provide programming and enhanced learning opportunities to support skills and career development in an inclusive and engaging environment. The City of New York has committed $15 million for the libraries to develop new or updated teen centers in underserved communities, while Google.org and the Best Buy and Joly Family foundations will expand their support with additional dedicated centers and enhanced services.

“After two years of isolation during the pandemic, our young people deserve a boost and today’s announcement is just one of many of this administration’s ongoing commitment to New York City youth. The teen centers offer young people a space where they can connect with each other in person, learn new technical skills and how to collaborate better, and receive social and emotional support,” said New York City mayor Eric Adams. “By investing approximately $20 million in new funds in these teen centers, we are connecting our young people with extraordinary programs in technology to discover new passions and prepare themselves for future careers. This is public-private partnership at its best and will provide our city’s youth with the best we have to offer.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/ tzahiV)