El Paso Public Library’s recently reopened Main Library is now home to a groundbreaking initiative: Centre Future, a unique program designed for young adults ages 16 to 26. As the first of its kind in the nation, Centre Future brings teens and twenty-somethings together for workforce development, digital literacy, life skills training, and so much more—all within a supportive and resource-rich library setting.

“We want young people to feel confident and secure about the next steps in their future,” said Alexa Harrison, one of the program’s founding fellows. “We’re not mind-readers and we’re not trying to predict their future for them—we’re helping them pursue the future they want.”

Alexas Harrison, Kalina Gallardo, and Alexa Harrison sit at an event for Centre Future
(From Left to Right) Alexa Harrison, Kalina Gallardo, and Indy Gonzalez work an event for El Paso Public Library’s Centre Future

Run in partnership between the Aspen Institute and the City of El Paso and funded by both, Centre Future was designed from the ground up by a trio of dedicated young professionals: Alexa (a psychology major from UT-Austin), Kalina Gallardo (a creative writing graduate from UT-El Paso), and Indy Gonzalez (a marketing student at UT-El Paso). The trio had a knack for marketing and event planning, and what began as sticky note brainstorming sessions has evolved into a one-of-a-kind space that’s already making a difference.

Sticky notes with writing on them are stuck to a pane of glass.

A National First: Supporting Ages 16–26 Under One Roof

While most youth programs focus narrowly on either teens or young adults, Centre Future brings both age groups together in a shared environment, something Alexa says was inspired by data from the Aspen Institute on “opportunity youth,” or individuals ages 16-24 not currently in school or working. Looking at community demographics, Centre Future expanded the age range from 16-26 in 2025.

The El Paso Public Library was a natural home for the project. The city’s library, Literacy Center, already offered programs like digital literacy classes and Career Online High School. Centre Future builds on that foundation by providing tailored services to younger patrons who are re-skilling, upskilling, or simply finding their footing.

“Our reference desk staff are our biggest champions,” Alexa shared. “They help patrons access resources or research topics they’re curious about. That kind of support really makes the space come alive.”

Peer Mentorship, Practical Skills, and a Place to Belong

Located in the basement of the newly reopened Main Library, Centre Future is something of a hidden gem, or, as Alexa puts it, “kind of like a speakeasy. If you know, you know.” But once inside, young people find a welcoming space full of opportunities:

  • Job Lab: Resume help, mock interviews, career exploration, and salary/financial planning
  • Skills Studio: Soft and hard skills development, including access to online library resources like Hoopla
  • Care Corner: Weekly community-led sessions on housing, food insecurity, and other essential services
  • Media Lab: A fully equipped podcast studio where patrons can explore voice acting, music, and storytelling
Alexa Harrison, Kalina Gallindo, and Indy Gonzalez of El Paso Public Library's Centre Future pose at an event

“We’ve had people come in not knowing what they want, and that’s okay,” Alexa said. “Whether it’s short-term planning or big-picture goals, we’re here to help them work it out.”

One recent success story involved a young man who had doubts about applying to graduate school. With encouragement from the Centre Future team, he submitted his application, and was accepted into UT-Austin public affairs program.

A Library-Backed Launchpad for El Paso’s Next Generation

Though still in its pilot phase, Centre Future is already showing signs of lasting impact. The program blends mentorship, technology, and community in ways that traditional classrooms and job centers often can’t. Alexa and her team are constantly refining the model, tracking feedback, building relationships with library staff, and hoping the City of El Paso will officially absorb the program when the initial grant phase ends.

A group photo of the Centre Future team and young adults at an event for Centre Future

“I’d love to see Centre Future replicated in libraries across the city,” Alexa said. “Bring in some good chairs, reserve a room, and dedicate a space for young adults to figure things out. Give them access and support and see what happens!”

By grounding Centre Future in a public library, one of the most trusted, accessible institutions in any city, El Paso is offering a new blueprint for how to empower youth.

To learn more about Centre Future, you can follow them on Instagram or visit their website.



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