YAs who use the library do so for many of the same reasons adults do. They either have a research need, an assignment due, need computer access, or are just looking for recreational /entertainment materials. Unlike most adult users, YAs also see the library as a place to meet friends, “scope” the opposite sex or simply as a “safe zone” from the streets or home life.
There are YAs who use the library regularly and in a well-rounded manner to read, study, use the computers, check out current magazines and media, or simply to chat with staff with which they have developed a relationship. They know the collection well and feel quite comfortable finding what they need when they need it, and asking for assistance when they do not find just the right thing.
There are YAs who use the library regularly and comfortably but for only one thing – computers. You know them by name and they know you, but the relationship is passive. They sign in, sit down, do their thing and leave. To them, this was a good library experience. In your opinion, it could have been better.
Then there are those who visit the library for the first time because an assignment is due. In this case, you may often perceive in them a sense of unease and panic, generally due to procrastination, confusion with the project, or lack of library skills. Questions or statements like the following are very common:
It is important to think of this interaction as “the moment of truth”. Whether they return and become those “regular and comfortable” users may depend on how you treat and serve them during this anxious time.
How do YAs find the books they read? One survey resulted in the following:
These results lead us to believe that merchandising is extremely important in the YA area or high school library. Many YAs simply browse their way through a library.
Once you learn more about this unique demographic and have determined their needs, it is important to develop a service plan specifically for YAs. It should fall under the library’s main mission and long range planning goals and objectives. Then the next step is an action plan. An action plan lists general goals and objectives then goes one-step further in listing a measurable step or steps you will take to reach those goals.
For example: under “Collection”
Goal: To reach reluctant readers
Action Steps: Develop a graphic novel section by July 1
Develop a section of visual non-fiction books by October 31
This course should continue to provide you with more information in order to develop such a plan.
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