Libraries do a great job with Story Times for toddlers — thus introducing young children to the enriching world of books and reading. But when it comes to teen patrons, the record is less impressive. If we want to encourage the next generation of life-long readers who are engaged in the process of gathering information and reflecting on its meaning in thoughtful ways, we need to make teens feel welcome in our libraries.

Libraries have, in the past decade, become much more than places to check out books. This is especially true for teens, who often view them as a clean, safe place to hang with friends, check email, surf the net, and yes, maybe even get some homework done.

Many librarians have wisely created library teen centers. But many others are at a loss as to how to ‘manage’ teens whose intense need to socialize can create conflicts with older patrons. As one librarian disdainfully noted, “Yes, we have teens who use the library. But we don't encourage them!”

Librarians, specifically YA specialists, are positioned to have a unique relationship with their teenage patrons. They are neither parent, teacher nor employer — enabling them to take on the positive and highly rewarding role of mentor. By making the effort to get to know the teens who stop by the branch every day after school, librarians can be positive role models. They can help with research, term paper topics, turn teens on to great books, get their input for teen programming, etc. In other words, a librarian can do a lot to show that he/she takes a sincere interest in the young person on the other side of the desk.

Annie has a long and affectionate history with libraries and librarians. Her first after school job was at a library where she continued to work all through high school. Also, Annie's professional writing career was launched when an encouraging children's librarian connected her with a New York publisher.

This specially designed in-service training for librarians helps participants:

• Deconstruct the stereotype most adults have of teens
• Examine their attitudes about libraries and the diverse needs of patrons
• Brainstorm ways to resolve the conflicting needs of teen vs. older patrons
• Create teen-advisory boards
• Take a look at ways to create more teen-friendly spaces