Creating new places for teenagers to learn and socialize presented a challenge for the Wells Public Library. Teen Scene, a new section for kids ages 11-16, is the response.

Books aimed at teen readers, a study carrel and a bistro set are all part of the new project.

“It is tough to get kids to stay here without their own space,” said Assistant Library Director Sue Rath.

Teen Scene was part of a plan to better utilize the library’s public areas. This week has been National Teen Read Week, and library staff had hoped to have all the planned furnishings ready to go by now, but there have been some delays. The bistro table and a dry eraser board have yet to arrive.

A contest to pick a name for the new reading and study area attracted eight entries. Teen Scene was selected by the library staff. Teen Scene will also feature a favorite books list, where teens can comment on and recommend books that they have enjoyed.

“We have limited space, but we have seen an increase in library usage in the last couple of years,” Rath said.

The growing use of the library caused the staff to think of creative ways to cater to the needs of the community. Another new library attraction is books on MP3 audio players, which can be checked out by cardholders. Batteries and headphones for the MP3 players must be supplied by patrons.

Two of the library’s six public computers are set up for gaming, which has proved popular with teens.

“Our technician set up those two computers for gaming,” said Rath. “If other patrons are using those computers for other purposes, we tell the kids they will have to wait.”

Five of the six computers have full Internet access, while one is used strictly as a card catalog.

The children’s library features a weekly book-giveaway program sponsored by the People’s State Bank of Wells. Children younger than 12 can enter their name in the giveaway program once a week during the school year. Books are selected by the library staff and one book is awarded on a weekly basis, based on a name drawing. The bank pays for the books.

Beth Heggen of Wells was visiting the children’s library on Friday with her children Andrew, 7, and Emma, 2.

“We love to come here,” Beth Heggen said. “It is a wonderful place to bring the kids.”