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Fri: 10am-5:30pm
Sat: 10am-5pm
Sun: 1pm-5pm
Teens Are Welcome Here!
Read, hang out, volunteer and more!
Take a break from school or home in the comfort of our Teen Room. Study with friends, with a tutor or by yourself.
Teen programs and opportunities for community service are available.
Battle of the Books
Save the Date: Sunday, August 26, 2026
The library is looking for teens to join our Battle of the Books team. Battle of the Books is a college bowl-type program for teens entering 6th through the 12th grade. Participants in the RCLS program read eight preselected titles and then participate in trivia battles based on the books at a Regional Battle. For more information, please email jgomez@rcls.org or call 845-786-3800 x44.
Interested in joining? Then click the button below to sign-up.
Need help with homework?
Give Brainfuse HelpNow a try! Enter your library card number for live, online tutoring.
Available daily from 2 PM – 11 PM EST.
Support includes: Math, science, reading/writing, social studies, PSAT/SAT, ACT, AP, standardized test-taking, skills-building, feedback on essays, Spanish-language support and more.
Brainfuse HelpNow Instructions:
Step 1: Enter Haverstraw Library card number when prompted
Step 2: On the main page, select “Login”
Step 3: On the Login page, select “Sign Up”
Step 4: Fill out the form with a username and password of your choosing; then select “Next”
Helpful Databases
Gale OneFile: High School Edition
Search magazines, journals, newspapers, and reference on a range of topics. Best for middle- and high-school students.
The premier online resource covering today’s hottest social issues, from Offshore Drilling to Climate Change, Health Care to Immigration.
A Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library card is required to access this database.
Book Reviews For Teens by Teens
Want to place one of these books on hold? Select the title to link to the catalog!
The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton
“This is the most gut wrenching, tear inducing book I’ve ever read. It’s deep on a mental level, and the writing is top notch. I couldn’t imagine a book better.”
~ Amelia H.
The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton
“I really like this book because I enjoyed its themes of gang violence, and class struggle. It was a really easy read and made me feel emotions that books do not usually make me feel. I felt like I was there.“
~ Mia G.
Dead Girls Society by Michelle Krys
“I love this book. I’ve read it twice, and it’s so incredibly good. They make the cystic fibrosis aspect of the book feel so real.“
~ Amelia H.
One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig
“In the beginning it took me a little while to get into. The setting up of the magic system and trying to keep track of all of the Providence Cards and what they did got a little confusing. But once you get past that it was quick to get through and very exciting. The last 50 pages or so were kinda crazy, but so good. Elspeth could be infuriating at times, but overall I could understand why she did the things she did. I loved the banter between her and the Nightmare.“
~ Halley K.
The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon
“this may be the worst book I have ever read. Despite having a lot of potential, the characters are truly unbearable, and the main protagonist, Natasha, disregarded her beliefs in less than a day. Even as a high school student, even I did not find the book’s excessive swearing to be necessary.“
~ Mia G.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
“I love this book so much. I appreciate the lessons in life that scouts teach us as she grows more mature, such as the dangers of mob mentality, how gossipers spread false information, and how they just lack perspective. The book gives off a nostalgic vibe and the way of writing makes it feel like you are in the book with them.“
~ Mia G.
The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka
“The Metamorphosis is one of the weirdest but most interesting stories i’ve ever read, in other words, strange but meaningful! What stood out to me is that Gregor works nonstop to support his family, but the moment he can’t, they neglect him. This scene reflects society, conveying how people are often valued based on what they can do, but not who they are. His transformation into a bug is a symbolism of how people feel when they’re ignore or judged, like they don’t feel human anymore. I like how the book made me think, even if it was kind of sad and weird at times. Franz puts things into perspective really well by using symbolism to show deeper meaning.“
~ An V.
Lord of the Flies by William Golding
“In my opinion the book is very meaningful in the sense that it addresses real government problems such as corruption amongst candidates for power. But the concepts of all these enduring issues that still are problems today are pointed out very clearly as a call for change which I like.“
~ Sophia S.
Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
“I loved this book! This is a powerful and poetic novel that captures a woman’s journey on self-discovery and freedom. Hurston’s use of dialect and vivid imagery bring’s Janie’s world to life, while exploring complex themes like love, independence, and resilience.“
~ Jazlene G.
Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
“I really liked this book because not only is it non fiction, but also feels very personal since its Anne’s diary. I would recommend this book to everyone, it is one of my favorites.“
~ Mia G.
To Live by Hua Yu
“I think to live is a very touching book. Fugui’s life is full of pain and loss, but he keeps living bravely, which moved me a lot. The story shows that life is not easy, but just being alive is a kind of courage. I think it’s a book that makes people think about life and fate.“
~ Haozhen W.
Night Shift by Stephen King
“I loved the book— I’m an avid Stephen King horror reader, my favorite one from Night Shift was Children Of The Corn— a really good short story.“
~ Grace P.
This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi
“This Woven Kingdom has an extended amount of world building that couldn’t always keep me interested. But once you get past it, the storyline keeps you hooked. This book is a great but slow start into the world of Persian Mythology. However, I found the other two books in the series much more interesting and fun.“
~ Jadyn N.
If Only I Had Told Her by Laura Nowlin
“I enjoyed this book more than the first one. The story is extremely well written and emotional. It navigates the feelings of love, grief, and regrets. I love how the author goes into the “what ifs” and the impact that unsaid words can have. Overall, the story shares a messages of how meaningful, important and fragile connections are.“
~ Abigail G.
Chainsaw Man Vol 1 by Tatsuki Fujimoto
“I enjoyed Chainsaw Man Vol.1! The story is fast paced and filled with action. I like how the story is intense, dark and mysterious while still having emotional and funny moments. Denji’s bond with Pochita made the story a little touching along with his simple dreams. I am looking forward to how the story develops.“
~ Abigail G.
The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
“The Lightning Thief and Percy Jackson is one of my favorite books series I’ve read. The character development of Percy can be seen throughout the entire collection. Percy’s humor also makes these books such a funny and unique aspect.“
~ Jadyn N.
The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
“I tried to read the books in fifth grade, but gave up. I picked them back up in 10th grade even though they are written for younger kids, and even still I go back and read a lot of the series because I love them so much. Super fun and interesting!“
~ Grace P.
Circe by Madeline Miller
“The book was great, it was written in a very interesting manner in terms of sentence structure and word usage. After learning how to read it properly I really liked the story and I think that everyone should read it if they’re interested in Greek Mythology, it might help your understanding of how to read the names and be interested in it.“
~ Grace P.
It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
“I really liked It Ends With Us! The story was super emotional and made me feel all the feels. It showed how strong people can be even when things get really hard, and I couldn’t stop thinking about it after I finished.“
~ Addison C.
The Violent Season by Sara Walters
“I really liked The Violent Season! It was super intense and kept me guessing the whole time. The story about family and secrets was really emotional, and I couldn’t put it down. Definitely a book I’d read again!“
~ Addison C.
The Naturals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
“This book was an absolute 5 star read. It had me on the edge of my seat trying to piece together all of the clues!! I loved the found family in this book and how all the Naturals are such fun characters to root for and great friends (mostly..). Plus the plot twist was INSANE. I finished this book in only two sittings and can’t wait to read the next one! Would highly recommend, especially for teens and lovers of The Inheritance Games!“
~ Emmaline L.
Love, Lies and Spies by Cindy Anstey
“It’s so good. After you figure out all of the old English and stuff, it’s easy to read and it’s so enticing.“
~ Amelia H.
Home Body by Rupi Kaur
“Home body is a book that helped me think about myself and my emotions in a more intimate way. I was taught that it’s about being okay with who you are. I think this is a nice book to read when you want to feel peaceful and understand your own heart better.“
~ Sakina N.
Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur
“Milk and honey carried a hope and healing mentality as I read on and on. The author writes in a way that feels personal, like she’s talking right to you. It’s a book that just makes you feel things and helps you think about your own life and emotions.“
~ Sakina N.
Every Day by David Levithan
“I liked this book a lot, it’s different from any other book I have read. It was interesting and I never felt bored in the plot. I would highly recommend this book.“
~ Mia G.
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
“I enjoyed this book because of its quick format and phrasing making it not tedious to read, as well as the subtle foreshadowing throughout the chapters. Some occasional concrete poetry also add an interesting feel to this story. Although the story refers to violent which is a touchy subject, there are still very heartwarming moments.“
~ Sophia S.
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
“I found this book to be just okay. While I enjoyed the idea of him seeking revenge in the elevator, the narrative seemed a little confusing to me.“
~ Mia G.
Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
“I really enjoyed this comic book as it has amazingly symbolic illustrations. The book makes it clear to everyone how people, especially young girls, lived through that time in history.“
~ Mia G.
Chronicle of a Death Foretold by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
“I loved how this novella was told in fragments rather than any other story told straight through. It is a haunting and brilliantly constructed story that blurs the line between fate vs free will. Márquez masterfully weaves suspense and irony into a story where the ending was known from the start, yet is still deeply compelling!“
~ Jazlene G.
Love at Full Tilt by Jenny L. Howe
“This story is very catchy and interesting for teenagers to read. The setting makes it feel like you are also in the book experiencing what is going on. This book is lighthearted and is perfect for anyone who loves friendship, romance, and competition.“
~ Ewurabena B.
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson
“I liked this book very much. This book had me hooked and intrigued the entire time I was reading. This murder mystery is exciting and had me sitting at the edge of my seat.“
~ Mia G.
Night by Elie Wiesel
“I think this book is very powerful. It shows us the pain and the fear that Jewish people go through, and it makes me deeply understand how terrible the holocaust really was. And the father and son’s relationship between Elie and his father was very moving. While others abandoned their families in the fear of trying to escape, Elie and his father never gave up on each other, which was very touching.“
~ Haozhen W.
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black
“The Cruel Prince is one of my favorite books because of its fast pacing and its true slow burn enemies to lovers. The majority of the book is focused on political intrigue which keeps the book from being too surface leveled.“
~ Jadyn N.
The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang
“The Poppy War gives an extremely detailed understanding of what war looks like. From the beginning to end, R.F. Kuang delivered a realistic and impactful storyline. All the characters, especially Rin, were complex enough to make you love them, even if they were the antagonist.“
~ Jadyn N.
If He Had Been with Me by Laura Nowlin
“If He Had Been With Me is an emotional and well written story. I love the way the author wrote about the complex and difficult situations of growing up, love and friendship. The ending left my heart broken but moved. I feel that this book is one that stays with you long after reading it.“
~ Abigail G.
Prince of Thorns by Mark Lawrence
“This book is brutal, bloody, and exactly my kind of story. Jorg is ruthless and messed up, but that’s what makes him so fun to follow. No sugarcoating, no hand-holding—just pure grimdark chaos. If you like violence and morally grey characters, this one absolutely delivers.“
~ Monica W.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
“I think Jane Eyre is a very powerful book. Even though Jane was poor and suffered a lot, she never gave up. She insisted on loving equally and keeping her independence and dignity. I think she was very brave, and it made me understand that true love should be based on respect.“
~ Haozhen W.
Time Bomb by Joelle Charbonneau
“You never really knew when the turning point was going to happen. I think that as someone who imagines the story while reading, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the descriptions and detailing of every sentence following another. The introductions and perspectives of each character is what really put this book in my top five. The characters aren’t generic and basic; they have personality and high relatability. Everyone was a suspect and had some type of motive, so it wasn’t immediately obvious of who was the perpetrator, which I also loved. The story never strayed too far from the main idea, and always kept you hooked. Great book, would definitely recommend.“
~ Chaniya S.
Lightlark by Alex Aster
“I really loved this book. The book was fast paced, each chapter ending on a cliff hanger that leaves you itching to find out what happens next. It was the type of book that was hard to put down. Each character stands out to you with their distinct personalities, and I was intrigued in the romances and friendships throughout the book. Alex Aster writes this story with great detail and imagery; I imagined the world of Lightlark and it felt like I was lost in that world too.“
~ Christia N.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
“I really liked The Hunger Games! It was super exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved how strong and smart Katniss was, and the story made me think about standing up for what’s right. Definitely a book I’d recommend!“
~ Addison C.
The Teens’ Top Ten, 2025
The Teens’ Top Ten is a “teen choice” list, where teens nominate and choose their favorite books of the previous year! Nominators are members of teen book groups in fifteen school and public libraries around the country. Nominations are posted on the Thursday of National Library Week, and teens across the country vote on their favorite titles each year.
The Michael L. Printz Award, 2025
The Michael L. Printz Award is an award for a book that exemplifies literary excellence in young adult literature. It is named for a Topeka, Kansas school librarian who was a long-time active member of the Young Adult Library Services Association. The award is sponsored by Booklist, a publication of the American Library Association
2025 Winner
Brownstone
written by Samuel Teer and illustrated by Mar Julia
In 1995, fourteen-year-old Almudena’s mother wants to fulfill a lifelong dancing dream in Europe, which means Almudena must spend the summer with her father whom she has never met as he restores a historic brownstone. Almudena learns more about her Guatemalan identity, herself, and the importance of community. Evocative graphic novel illustrations elevate this layered, character-driven, fish-out-of-water story of found family.
2025 Honor Books
Bright Red Fruit
by Safia Elhillo
Compound Fracture
by Andrew Joseph White
The Deep Dark
by Molly Knox Ostertag
Road Home
by Rex Ogle
Cool Links
Yalsa/the Hub
ReadingRants
TeenCentral
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Interesting Places
Video Game News: IGN.com
Go Ask Alice
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Need Community Service?
Volunteering at the Library
You must make an appointment to volunteer at the library. Please fill out the Teen Volunteer Application Form and a staff member will get back to you. Please note that completing the form does not guarantee you an appointment to volunteer as there are a limited number of volunteer opportunities per day. All volunteers must live within the North Rockland Central School District. Please do not use your school email when filling out the form, we may not be able to respond to you if you do.
If you have any questions, please email: volunteens464@gmail.com.
Submit a Book Review
Earn two (2) hours of community service for each review submitted (a maximum of 4 per month). Once approved, certificates are provided within seven (7) business days of receipt. Please do not use your school email when submitting your review, we may not be able to email your letter if you do.