Teen Services 101: A Practical Guide for Busy Library Staff

This primer on teen services succinctly articulates how the teen population is one of the most important groups of patrons. It presents the case that young adults are the future of library support. If teens have positive experiences, then they are more likely to be supporters of the library when they are older. The author discusses how interaction with the library helps teens develop social skills and literacy and provides access to volunteer opportunities, lifelong learning, and career development. The book also handles themes such as dealing with the developing minds of teens, creating safe spaces for them, and handling teen behavior in a manner that will be both constructive and productive. Importantly, Fink points out that feedback from teens is critical. Their confidence in the services offered by the library will put them on the road to becoming lifelong users.