FOLEY, Ala. — After watching children outgrow story time at The Foley Public Library, employee Anna Hallex noticed that there wasn’t a youth program to keep the kids interested in reading.

So the No Name Book Club — so named for a lack of a better title — and Young Adults Love the Library (YALL) were born.

The No Name Book Club meets once a month after school, and allows the kids time to talk about the book they’ve been assigned to read.

Hallex said she reads every book to insure that they are age appropriate, and she picks books for a specific reason.

“Ones that have issues that will get the kids talking,” she said. “It’s stuff they might not have talked about.”

The books offer a variety of stories from a 12-year-old-evil genius to a boy who lives in a gypsy caravan.

In a recent meeting of the book club, a member began to talk about her experience of once being homeless after reading about a character that was in the same situation.

“It brings kids together who wouldn’t normally know each other,” said Hallex.

Some meetings turn into parties, but Hallex said that they are always educational. For Valentine’s Day, the group wanted to have a toga party. To do this, they had to pick a god or goddess in Greek mythology, learn the story behind them, and come to the party as the character.

“We try to do something that interests them that they learn from too,” said Hallex.

This past week YALL met and the kids took part in Double Dare, inspired by the Nickelodeon game show. They were split into two teams, boys versus girls, and were quizzed on books they’ve read, pop culture, and other topics suitable for teen Jeopardy.

The enthusiasm that the kids have is warming, and Hallex said that is an amazing sight.

“It’s neat to see teenagers put effort into something,” she said.

To honor that effort, the library publishes a quarterly newsletter that features artwork, poetry, and anything else that showcases the youth’s talents.

About 11 kids take part in the programs, ranging from age 12 to age 17, and most of them are home schooled. The range of personalities, Hallex said, is the most beneficial part of the club. She said that the group is very connected, and each one of them has a unique background and life.

Kelley Wansley, children’s librarian, said that the programs are a positive experience for the members and it has even opened her eyes about topics the kid discuss.

“Just as you can’t judge a book by its cover, you can’t judge a kid by their appearance,” she said, speaking of the diverse group.

Wansley also praises Hallex, who was recently promoted to assistant children’s librarian, for her work with the kids.

“Anna is wonderful with them.”

The two hope to see the program grow, and are hoping that more public school kids take part.

Upcoming plans for the group include a battle of the bands concert and a mini film festival.

Volunteer help and donations are always welcome and Hallex said they really need prizes to award to the kids.

To find out more information, or to join the club, call 251-970-5111.