Real-World Teen Services

January 1, 2016

Even the most experienced teen services librarian in the public library will find the perspectives here extremely useful. Issues considered and strategies proposed are ones not often addressed in professional library literature. The author considers teen services a core value for libraries, as much a priority as children's services. Unlike children's services, however, programs and services for teens are seen as evolving, teen-centered, and planned from the bottom up, often spontaneously from needs expressed by this specific population. The librarian is seen as facilitator and activator rather than curator of activities and materials favored by the librarian and thought to be good for teens. In addition, the author promotes nontraditional outreach in the community, such as visiting shopping malls. Barriers to providing services (including adult attitudes and space restraints) are explored and concrete innovative strategies considered. Familiar issues of truancy, privacy, and behavior are presented with fresh solutions by Velasquez. A section called "Lightning Round" presents views of other librarians dealing with universal concerns. "Soap Box Moments," opinions highlighted in gray, add spice and passion to the text. Some of the out-of-the-box approaches presented here will not be practical for some institutions, but teen librarians and library managers will find much to ponder, and the author's appreciation for and understanding of teens are laudable. An extensive bibliography appears at the end of each chapter, and an index and table of contents are included. VERDICT An excellent resource for current and future YA librarians and library managers.-Jackie Gropman, formerly at Chantilly Regional Library, VA

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