Making the Most of Teen Library Volunteers

This guide helps librarians create effective teen volunteer programs, highlighting benefits for both teens and libraries. It covers various volunteer roles, partnership development, and evaluation methods for successful implementation.

Making the Most of Teen Library Volunteers is a practical guide designed for librarians looking to create or enhance teen volunteer programs within their libraries. The book emphasizes the mutual benefits of such initiatives, where teenagers not only acquire valuable skills and build their resumes but also become advocates for libraries, fostering a new generation of support for these vital community resources.

The author advocates for a flexible approach that can be tailored to various library types, whether they are small public libraries with limited budgets or larger institutions with more resources. The text begins by outlining the overall advantages for teens, libraries, and their communities, providing a solid foundation for understanding the importance of youth involvement. It then explores a range of volunteer opportunities, from traditional roles like shelving books to more innovative, passion-driven projects that align with the interests of young volunteers.

In addition to detailing specific volunteer roles and offering practical guidance, the book includes real-life examples from diverse library settings, illustrating the principles discussed. It also addresses how to establish partnerships for volunteering both within and outside the library. The concluding sections focus on evaluation and assessment methods, ensuring that librarians can measure the success of their programs and continually improve them. Overall, this guide serves as a comprehensive resource for librarians eager to engage teens and enhance their library’s community impact.