Cultivating Strong Girls: Library Programming That Builds Self-Esteem and Challenges Inequality

Those interested in implementing innovative programming for teen girls at school or public libraries will find this guide by public librarian and 2017 Library Journal Mover & Shaker Evans remarkably persuasive. The author lays out a research-backed case for why girls and women can, and must, challenge the status quo and why librarians are in a strong position to deliver the resources and space they need. Whether covering sexism in the media or suicide prevention, Evans equips each session's plans with useful discussion prompts, well-selected TED Talks and YouTube videos, and vetted links to free curricula and materials from groups such as A Mighty Girl, NARAL, and the Trevor Project. Helpful recaps review the topics, questions, and activities in each chapter. Suggestions for modifying or extending the program are paired with sensible advice on gaining supervisory approval and managing tricky aspects of facilitation (maintaining boundaries, knowing when to redirect digressions).