Goal 2:  The library supports family literacy by preparing children to succeed in school and by helping teens develop the skills they need to become productive and well-informed citizens.

2.4:  By 6/30/09, use of the library by teens (12-19) will increase by 50%--based on data for fiscal year 2007.

What are some strategies we have for this?

A.      Become teen-friendly; among other things, expect a certain amount of noise after school, etc.  Reward teens for good behavior.

B.       Develop intergenerational programs and other teen-specific programs.

C.       Create dedicated teen spaces with a teen (YA) librarian in each regional library and Main.  Enlarge and redesign teen spaces to make them attractive and welcoming to teens.

a.        Provide study space for homeschoolers and others.

b.       Get more casual furniture which appeals to teens.

c.        Maintain up-to-date tech collections, including teen and languages.

d.       Create teen advisory boards.

e.        Consider production and performance spaces as part of Main Library renovation.

D.      Use teens to assist staff in the teen spaces.

E.       Provide more outreach programs at centers of influence (e.g. churches, youth groups).

F.       Develop a website geared to teens.  Create teen webpage and newsletters, lists for specific groups.  Use teens to help produce web page, newsletters, and booklists.

G.       Partner with educational and recreational groups and institutions.

H.      Capitalize on Library Youth Partnership programs —teens are trained to present science- and arts-based storytimes for elementary-aged children

I.         Provide volunteer service opportunities at the library

a.        Partners with volunteer center

b.       Continue providing employment references for volunteers.

J.        Enhance teen collection (e.g. Chicken Soup for the Teen’s Soul).

Develop a program of advancing knowledge and recognition for different age groups.  Model it after the system in  Boy Scounts, similar to their ranks from Tenderfoot to Eagle Scout.  Develop training programs meant to trigger interest.  Skill badges - similar to Boy Scouts Merit Badges.  The program would help to focus young people on contributing to society and personal growth.  Engage young minds in thoughts about their future, help them explore areas of interest by building programs that are staffed by community volunteers who are both skilled and interested in the future of Durham youth.  Encourage the children by providing small rewards, recognition, and encouragement.  Scholarships and other types of rewards could await those who advance through the program.

What are we working on?

What has been working great for us?

Questions?  Comments?  Please contact one of the Goal Champions for Goal 2:  Karlene Fyffe and Bert White.

 Create your own free wiki!HelpPublic, Gold wiki Privacy Policy RSS