The Skaneateles Library and the Skaneateles School District invite the community to participate in a four-part virtual book study of Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation. This insightful series will explore the impact of technology and mental health on children today. The program is designed for parents, educators, teens, and community members seeking to better understand the challenges facing younger generations.

The first session is Thursday, October 24 at 6:30 PM and will include a presentation and discussion with Shannon Kelley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner of Child & Adolescent Psych at Upstate Medical Intensive Outpatient Clinic. Participants are encouraged to read The Anxious Generation, available in print or as a downloadable ebook or audiobook through the library. However, reading the book is not a requirement to join the discussion. All discussions will be over Zoom and registration is required to receive the link. For more information and to sign up, visit www.skanlibrary.org or contact the library directly.

“The school district is a great resource for us at the library, especially in terms of literacy and learning. Partnering with them to open the mental health conversation to the broader community is a great way to grapple with this topic and show a shared commitment to supporting mental health awareness and education in our community. “ – Mary Beth Schwartzwalder, Librarian for Kids and Teens at the Skaneateles Library.

“In a world where social media and smartphones have become central to kids’ lives, The Anxious Generation shines a crucial light on how these digital tools can affect their mental health. Understanding the impact of constant online interaction, comparison, and overstimulation is key to helping our children develop resilience, emotional balance, and the skills they need to navigate an increasingly digital world.” –  Kristin Moses, Coordinator of Student Support Services & Family Engagement with the Skaneateles School District

Upcoming Sessions: 

Part 1: A Tidal Wave: Kids and Mental Health | Thurs, October 24 @ 6:30 PM

Part 2: The Backstory: What Children Need to Grow | Thurs, January 16 @ 6:30 PM

Part 3: The Great Rewiring: Rise of the Phone-Based Childhood  |Thurs, March 20 @6:30 PM

Part 4: Collective Action: What Can We Do?| Thursday, May 8, 2025 @ 6:30 PM

For more information, contact Andrea Snyder at [email protected]