Young Adult Literature

I can’t even begin to express how much I learned as a result of this class. We learned how to write book records, book talks, book reviews, and annotations for Young Adult literature. We put these into practice by giving book talks in schools or at the library as well as creating book lists to make available to patrons in the library. This was my first experience writing a book review as well and I really enjoyed it. After graduation I am hoping to volunteer to write reviews for School Library Journal or the like.

Knew, but refined: programming, collection development, teen involvement, teen spaces, teen technology. These are things I have already been doing in my current position, but Diane and my classmates shared many great ideas for programming and new ways to involve teens in the library. Everything they shared has been very helpful.

Diane gave us an incredible wealth of information which will be invaluable in my career as a children’s or teen librarian. She shared her personal experiences as well as professional literature in order to give us a well-rounded view of the field.

Since this course covered topics in my career of interest, it is probably the most important course I will take during the program. My eyes were opened to issues existing with Young Adults and their literature, but I was also given solutions and methods to deal with these issues in the library setting. The importance of working with middle schools and high schools to get teens involved in the library was emphasized and we were given strategies to deal with schools.

We had an opportunity to evaluate some teen spaces as well as develop our own. My evaluation and space plan is attached. This project gave me some great ideas for the teen space in my current library as well as ideas for future spaces. Teens deserve and want a space of their own.

We also learned about effective programs for young adults and where to go to find ideas for programming. Additionally, it was emphasized that above all, involving teens in decisions about their programs and collection is extremely important. We learned there is a difference between a children’s librarian and a teen librarian. Teens should not be treated as children and do not appreciate being lumped into the “children” category.

 I feel that, as a result of this class, I will be a successful teen librarian. Every bit of the information Diane shared with us will stay with me forever. I truly appreciate this course, and I appreciate Diane for taking so much time to teach us about something many libraries simply push aside or overlook.