Meeting the Information Needs of Adolescent Patrons
One important aspect of any library is providing services to all patrons, regardless of any demographic factors. While researching library services across the country and observing a number of local libraries and the services they offer, I realized that many, though not all, libraries are not doing enough to meet the information needs of adolescents. Services and resources provided are adequate but do not usually go above and beyond the minimal call of duty. Because preteens and teens are still forming opinions and perspectives, librarians can influence them in their decision-making and in their perceptions of libraries. By combining research into what libraries currently do to serve teens and research on the needs and wants of this group, I was able to think through the issue of library services to adolescents. This paper explores the ways in which libraries currently serve adolescent patrons and outlines ways in which libraries can better meet the needs of this patron group.