Thank you to the Greenfield Recorder for highlighting the Greenfield Public Library’s Teen Back to School Resource Fair, held on Tuesday, Aug. 19. The Back to School event began last year as a teen-led event, meaning a teenage volunteer at the library suggested we hold an event before the start of school where kids could clean out their backpacks, get some new school supplies and meet with teachers to discuss strategies so they wouldn’t be so stressed about school.

We’re thrilled to report that this year’s fair quadrupled in size and was a resounding success! Dozens of local organizations joined us to share skills, resources, and support, helping teens feel more prepared, confident, and connected heading into the school year.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the following participants who made the event so impactful:

The Brick House, Community Conversations 413, The Academy at Charlemont, Looky Here, Western Massachusetts Training and Education Academy, Greenfield Police Department, MassHire Young Adult Career Counseling, Greenfield High School, Communities That Care and their Youth Ambassador Program, GCTV, Artspace, Baystate Franklin, Community Action Family Center, Community Health Care of Franklin County, GCC, Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line, and the Hampshire Franklin Tobacco-Free Community Partnership.

A special thank you goes to the Friends of the Greenfield Public Library for funding the event and providing school supplies. We’re also incredibly grateful to everyone in the community who donated additional supplies — your generosity helped ensure every teen left with what they needed.

Events like this remind us of the power of community collaboration. We’re proud to support local teens not only with materials but with the encouragement and resources they need to start the school year strong. We’re already looking ahead to next year’s fair and hope you’ll spread the word and encourage the teens and young adults in your life to join us!

Francesca Passiglia, Teen Librarian, Greenfield Public Library

Greenfield