Sources: The Whole Library Handbook: Teen Services

The Whole Library Handbook: Teen Services. Ed. by Heather Booth and Karen Jensen. Chicago: ALA, 2014. 216 p. Paper $60 (ISBN 978-0-8389-1224-9).

Edited by two teen librarians, this book focuses on practices of teen services for young adult librarians in today’s public libraries, covering topics such as programming, networking, “defining our teens,” teen involvement, collection development, and marketing. Both current and future librarians will find that this volume offers helpful direction in running a successful teen services department as well as motivation to involve teens in libraries. The information presented here can be molded and incorporated within a teen services department in a public library or a school media center for middle school or high school students. In addition, the appendixes provide sample materials, such as a teen services plan, teen volunteer plan, a programming and marketing plan, and further resources. Librarians can easily incorporate these sample materials into their own plans, taking into account their own teen users and their department needs. The book is especially strong in its many wonderful examples of program ideas, marketing tips, and ways to lure teens into the library. Although many of the ideas already may be used in other libraries, this gives guidance to those just starting out in a teen’s department.

Moreover, this book serves current librarians and librarians-to-be equally well. Students working toward the MLS degree will be able to use this information throughout their education and apply it in their first jobs. In addition, the information provided in this book is highly relevant for those who already work with teens and would like to revamp or reevaluate what they are already doing.—Dana M. Amarosa, Tween Librarian, Westhampton Free Library, Westhampton Beach, New York