Teen Services

For Adult Services Librarians

Game Plan

Why teens?

Teens needs

Good customer service practices

Getting teens out of the closet and into the library: teen space issues and solutions

The Importance of Teens

Simply stated libraries needs teens

About one fourth of library patrons

“Libraries are not really in the information business or the book business, but the people business.” – (Jones, 2002)

Why Teen Services Is Important

to Our Library10 arguments to why providing quality

services to teens is indispensable!

1.Meet Libraries Mission Statement 6. Definition: Library User

2.Teen Demographics 7. Investment = Payoff

3. Proactive rather than reactive 8.Last chance to teach literacy skills

4. Libraries are part of the solution 9. Teens success in school

5. Follow the money trail 10. Services to young adults work

Developmental Assets

Eight Large Groups in which the

40 Teen Assets are Divided Into.

Support Commitment to Learning

Empowerment Positive Values

Boundaries and Expectations Social Competencies

Constructive Use of Time Positive Identity

Quality Customer Service

The Basics to Good Customer Service

Be approachable

Be an active listener

Develop strong question answering skills

Brush up on reference interview techniques

Always end an interaction with, “Is there anything else I can help you with?”

The Golden Rule

Treat others the way you want to be treated!

This applies to teens too not just adults.

Teen Specific Customer Service Points

Keep it simple

Respect

Pack mentality

Teen Space

In the closet, around the corner, and over the bend!

A scattered collection due to space constraints

Group study areas

Final Reminders

Just Remember:

The Golden Rule

Unbiased Service to all

Respect

Keep It Simple!