Second Life

PLCMC in Teen Second Life

What is Teen Second Life?®

Teen Second Life® is a subset of the popular 3D online virtual world, Second Life®. The teen world of second life is separate from the adult world and is only accessible to those ages 13- 17 (and approved adults). While there is no charge to have an account in SL, the program must be downloaded and installed on a computer. Over 40,000 avatars are currently created in Teen Second Life®. While many people might compare Second Life® to a video game since it shares many attributes in its look and feel, there are no goals, strategies or objectives like video games; rather this online environment offers a creative playground to build, interact and learn from other users/residents. Within Second Life®, users or “residents” are represented by avatars, a computer generated representation of a person.

Why is PLCMC participating in a virtual world?

Because PLCMC contributes to a literate community, giving teens tools for self-expression and communication is a step in that direction. When teens can share and produce things in a 3D environment, and with teens from all over the world, it helps to develop a stronger community that can be far reaching. Visual literacy is an important skill to be able to have for school and beyond. By the library being involved, we act as mentors and to help build assets that are valuable to have and help build networks that have more distributed knowledge between teens and adults.

For FAQs check out ImaginOn’s Teen Library in Second Life. For the latest events online, check out the Teen Second Life page at PLCMC’s Library Loft. Library Loft lists all teen happenings through out the library system.

For more information contact Kelly Czarnecki, Technology Education Librarian at ImaginOn at (704) 973-2742 or the Tech Central Department, at (704) 973-2727.