Providing a separate section in the public library for tweens and teens shows both acknowledgement and respect.  If that means a shelf or two reserved specifically for YA materials that is fine, but it is better if you can provide space for a comfortable seating area, computers and/or a listening station as well as a specialized collection. There are a great many criteria, many as conflicting as YA behavior itself. Here are some of the criteria you can consider for a potential YA space:

  • An area in the building where they can be themselves without feeling as if they are bothering others. 
  • An area or study carrels that offer a quiet place to study.  
  • An area not within nor located next to the children’s department.  This is an issue of identity; tweens and teens do not wish to be perceived as children.
  • A cozy, comfortable, and private space that retains a clear line of staff vision.

In public libraries creating the right environment or “feel” is very important.  YAs are classic “browsers” and they are trendy.  Ideally, the YA space should have a bookstore atmosphere.  Have as many materials face-out (cover of the item showing, rather than the spine) as possible.  If there is any area in the library that should be organized purely by genre or general subject heading, this is it.  YAs will be drawn to an area that has a computer or two, a listening station, chess and other games available for use, and any other furnishings or accessories that allow for creative or social interaction. 

The YA area should have energy. Lively, trendy READ posters, attractive topical posters, or bulletin/wipe boards should adorn wall space, and you can ask teens directly for input on what decorations to use. Displays and featured collections should be changed regularly and should not follow the same patterns as children’s displays. Books and other materials should scream from the shelves, tabletops, or floor to be checked-out (in either sense of the word). This is one area of the library where you can play “designer.”  Be creative, innovative, and even a bit odd.  If one thing does not work, try, try again. Build upon your successes!



Last modified: Thursday, October 19, 2023, 10:41 PM