Trends

Technology

∑ Teens are active technology users (mentioning items like an online forum and AIM); they use the catalog to renew/reserve materials. This trend is in keeping with items noted in the OCLC Environmental Scan. Teen users are comfortable with the Internet and ≥are spending more time online doing things for themselves≤ (p. 5)

Culture

∑ Convenient access to the library is important to teens. They would like collections and services in the places they frequent in the course of their daily lives and on their schedules. The OCLC Environmental Scan asks, ≥How can libraries and information service providers enter usersπ spaces instead of making them come to our spaces?≤ (p. 10)

∑ Teensπ ability to visit the library is limited by their transportation options

Community

∑ Teens say they are interested in participating in activities at the library. The OCLC Environmental Scan found that ≥People hunger for context and environments that encourage dialogue, conversation, and the ability to share.≤ (p. 101)

∑ Teens also warn that spaces designed for them specifically have not always been successful.

Items to pursue

Technology

∑ Forum on library website

∑ Express check out (self-check?)

Culture

∑ Keeping in touch with teen interests

∑ Book displays that are more appealing to teens

∑ Expanding manga collection

∑ More publicity about the bookmobile, remote book drops

∑ Library web pages that are free of jargon

Community

∑ Activities for teens (bands; arts and crafts; poetry/writing/book groups)

∑ Offering help on the floor rather than from behind a desk

Challenges

The Williamsburg Library can be unappealing because itπs crowded, noisy, and lacks comfortable seating.
The James City County library can be unappealing because it is not close to other spots of interest.
WRLπs collections budget does not keep pace with teensπ appetites for new music and movies.

Genevieve S. Owens

April 7, 2005