Aimed at an audience of kids ages 6–12, Portal contains stories and features, fun facts, comics, activities, and much more specially created by the Teen Reading Ambassadors for each of our issues.
The cohort of spring 2021 chose the magazine's name, which means a "doorway or an entrance to something new," to reflect the role books and libraries play as portals to exciting new worlds.
Our first issue celebrated New York City and its diverse communities, our second issue was all about magic, our third issue is about dreams, and our most recent issue took inspiration from the theme "Around the World." Check them out below and get inspired to become a Teen Reading Ambassador yourself!
New! Read Portal: Issue 4
We are excited to share the fourth issue of Portal with you! The theme for this issue is "Around the World." Inside you will discover new places, recipes, activities, stories, and much more.
Print copies of Portal Issue 4 are available in branches starting Friday, July 5, 2024—while supplies last!
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Read Portal: Issue 3
DownloadThe theme for the third issue of Portal is dreams. Inside you will find adventures, recipes, activities, stories, and so much more. We hope this magazine helps you discover new dreams! Plus, go behind the scenes with our Teen Reading Ambassadors to hear more about Issue 3 and their work at the Library.
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Read Portal: Issue 2
DownloadThe second issue of Portal is all about magic! Inside, you will find fantasy stories, card tricks, recipes, and craft ideas—as well as discovering some amazing places right here in New York City. We hope you enjoy your magical adventure!
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Read Portal: Issue 1
DownloadIn the inaugural issue of Portal, we celebrate everything that has to do with New York City and the vibrant and diverse communities that make our city so special. We explore this theme through comics, activity pages, fictional stories, fun facts, and so much more.
Book Recommendations and Downloadables for Kids, by Teens!
Read book recommendations for kids and download posters to hang on your wall—all written and designed by the Teen Reading Ambassadors!
Learn More About NYPL's Teen Reading Ambassadors
The Library's Teen Reading Ambassadors program offers internships to teens to help develop job readiness and leadership skills. Participating teens will act as leaders and role models to younger kids, ambassadors for NYPL's mission to inspire a lifelong love of reading and learning, and writers and editors of a special magazine for kids created by teens.
Explore the work of NYPL's Teen Reading Ambassadors and find out how you can get involved!
