Tweens and Libraries

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Tweens and Libraries

• What can we do to serve our tween patrons?

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Until very recently, we made little distinction
between the early elementary years and the later
elementary years, from about age eight to
twelve. The new awareness of the special needs
of this group is best shown in the emergence of
the term tweenagers, signifying that these
children are not kids in the sense that they were
a few years ago, nor are they to be treated as
teenagers. -- Michael Sullivan
Fundamentals of Childrens Services
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RESPECT
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Diverse
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The 5 Cs

• Competence
• Confidence
• Connection
• Character
• Caring
• Richard Lerner, Tufts University
• 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development

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Providing Good Service

• Be aware of your body language
• Smile
• Dont point
• Dont hide behind the desk
• Respect their questions
• Dont ask if its homework

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Roving is not a dirty word.
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They Are Driving Me Crazy!

• Redirect negative behavior
• Divert tween energy
• Consistency in rules and enforcement of these
  rules

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REMEMBERits probably not intentional and
its probably not about you
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Programming

• Tweens need to feel that libraries care enough to
  offer them specialized programming just for them.

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Remember the 5 Cs in Programming

• Competence
• Confidence
• Connection
• Character
• Caring

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Where to Find Ideas for Programs

• Research your tweens
• Keep up on popular culture
• Program around Dewey
• And the best way . . .

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Ask your tweens!
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Program Ideas Events

• Book Clubs
• Anime/Manga Clubs
• Crafts
• Poetry Nights
• Karaoke
• Gaming
• Writing

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Program Ideas Open

• Writing Contests
• Art Contests
• Literary Magazine/Newsletter
• Guessing Games
• Puzzles
• Reading Programs
• Teen Advisory Boards

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Teen Volunteer Programs

• Use an Application
• Keep a Schedule
• Keep Them Busy
• Provide Clear Directions
• Give Them Space
• Hold Them Accountable
• Show Your Appreciation

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Promotion

• In the library
• In the schools
• At teen hang outs
• In the media
• Reach parents
• Tween word of mouth

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Reaching Out

• Take your programs out of the library if
  possible. Patrick Jones says its easier for one
  librarian to travel than to expect it of 10-20
  tweens.