Fort Bend County Libraries (FBCL) offers programs specifically designed for high school-aged teens in grades 9 through 12. This spring, FBCL will host a free series of Financial Literacy workshops designed to give teens a better understanding of personal finances, credit cards, and money-management skills that will help them succeed in the adult world after high-school graduation.
The series of classes will be presented by Fort Bend County Extension Agent Janelle Johnson. Each month, the topic will be repeated at three different FBCL locations. Registration is required.
The series will begin in January with a program on “Budgeting 101.” In this class, teens will learn how to create and stick to a budget by tracking income and expenses, prioritizing needs over wants, and saving for future goals.
The schedule of programs on “Budgeting 101” is as follows:
· Monday, January 13, 5:00-6:00 pm – Mission Bend Branch Library (8421 Addicks Clodine Road, Houston)
· Wednesday, January 15, 4:00-5:00 pm – George Memorial Library (1001 Golfview, Richmond)
· Thursday, January 16, 4:00-5:00 pm – Missouri City Branch Library (1530 Texas Parkway)
In February, teens will learn about “Credit Management.” Students will learn how credit cards, loans, and credit scores work. They will also hear about strategies for using credit wisely while avoiding excessive debt.
The schedule of “Credit Management” programs is as follows:
· Monday, February 3, 5:00-6:00 pm – Mission Bend Branch Library
· Wednesday, February 19, 4:00-5:00 pm – George Memorial Library (Richmond)
· Thursday, February 20, 4:00-5:00 pm – Missouri City Branch Library
In March, the series will continue with an “Introduction to Credit Cards.” This class will delve more deeply into the use of credit cards. Students will learn how they work and how to avoid debt. They will also receive tips for using credit cards smartly and responsibly.
The schedule of programs on “Credit Cards” is as follows:
· Monday, March 3, 5:00-6:00 pm – Mission Bend Branch Library
· Wednesday, March 19, 4:00-5:00 pm – George Memorial Library (Richmond)
· Thursday, March 20, 4:00-5:00 pm – Missouri City Branch Library
The series will conclude in April with a program on “Insurance Basics.” Students will get an overview of insurance types — including health, auto, and renters’ – and why they are an important part of financial planning.
The schedule of programs on “Insurance Basis” is as follows:
· Monday, April 7, 5:00-6:00 pm – Mission Bend Branch Library
· Wednesday, April 16, 4:00-5:00 pm – George Memorial Library (Richmond)
· Thursday, April 24, 4:00-5:00 pm – Missouri City Branch Library
The series is free and open to the public. To register online at the library’s website (www.fortbend.lib.tx.us), click on “Classes & Events,” select the library, and find the program on the date indicated. For more information, call FBCL’s Communications Office (281-633-4734).