Library Website for Teens - Richmond Public Library

"Teens - Our Famous Teens"
http://www.yourlibrary.ca/community_sub.cfm?lev1=3 - Richmond Public Library, BC

Richmond Public Library's teen site is very bare bones. It's not exactly a "Teen Site" since it's not disconnected from the main site. There's about 5 or 6 major links. 3 of them are programs, one link is to a list of programs, one link is for a list of "Teen Links", and the last link features book reviews. However, these pages are not likely to catch the eye of any teen. There is a minimal amount of pictures and design layout for the various programs and the copy for the programs (volunteer programs reading to kids or helping them learn French, teen poetry contest) seem more like job ads than avenues through which the teens to improve themselves and help out the community. One suggestion I might make is capturing the personal stories of both the teens and the kids to put a more personal spin on volunteering. As well, the "Teen Links" did feature a lot of great links for teens interested in health, sexuality, activism, etc. but is organized quite simply. However, the layout again, was not very exciting and teen-friendly. Lastly, although the teen book reviews are a great idea and there are around 25 reviews now on the website, a couple of the books were not necessarily for teens. There was one review for The Trumpeter Swan which may be more suitable for kids. Perhaps it would be good if the reviews also included information on the age of each reviewer.
This website, while containing useful information, is just not that attractive. It contains too many words and not enough graphics and eye-catching visuals. A teen site that is separated both visually and structurally from the main library website may be better and attract more teens.