Starting from Scratch: Building a Teen Library Program

Create a successful, vibrant, and youth-centered teen services program with this practical, comprehensive guide―even when resources are limited.

In order to develop a young adult department from the ground up, librarians need to be informed about a myriad of interrelated tasks and responsibilities: creating policies, purchasing materials, program scheduling, outreach, and budgeting. Even for libraries that already have teen-oriented materials within their facilities, keeping them current and fresh is a challenge, especially when budget or physical space is an issue.

Starting from Scratch: Building a Teen Library Program is an instrumental resource for librarians who are either entering an established teen program with no previous experience, or establishing a new teen program in a library. It covers all steps in the process of becoming a successful teen librarian, from getting the job and advocating for a teen department to adding qualified staff and ongoing professional development.