Hopefully, this doesn’t come too late for some of you. It’s important to make sure your programming is fun, free and innovative at a time when your teens are super stressed. Think of the MUST HAVEs as the cute accessories to your program planning. Here are some helpful hints for you to consider as you plan out your Spring programs.
Creative Communication: Paper flyers are an awesome way to get the word out about your programs but you should consider using all of your social media options, because you never know which one your community of teens and parents might prefer to use communicate with you. MUST HAVE – A direct email for teens and their parents to communicate with you.
Active Passive Programs: Yes you can still program for your teens safely. DIY programs can be packaged creatively and provided by any library that has curbside service. You can organize scavenger hunts within your library or with community partners to get your teens out and about. Interactive displays (which can be virtual) that allow your teens to not only find great books but leave you their thoughts on the titles are also fun. MUST HAVE – Fun. Research this concept till you smile and you will find the right program for your teens.
Get Out(side): Partner with your parks and rec department and start using the outdoor spaces provided to your teens. Don’t be afraid of the cold- your teens aren’t afraid of wearing coats to hang out with their friends. If it’s at least 50 degrees and you can use open air shelters, consider doing programs in your local parks. You might consider sending out a survey to assess the social media platform that your targeted demographic might want to use. MUST HAVE – Get outside and walk your local area, this will let you see your community from your teen’s perspective. Change your paradigm and see your community from your feet.
Alicia Woodland - McMillan Memorial Library- Wisconsin Rapids, WI
This post was made by a member of our Wisconsin Teen Librarian Services Group.
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