This is a ticketed event. Only registered Teen Services Development Day attendees will be able to attend.
In recent years, Buffalo & Erie County Public Library's Central Library experienced disruptive behavior and occasional conflicts among teen patrons--symptoms not of 'problem teens' but of unmet needs. This session shares the practical evolution of Central Library's new Teen Space--from concept to furniture to culture. Attendees will learn how involving teens in design decisions, prioritizing comfort and identity, and creating interest-driven programming transformed our environment. We will explore how ownership over the space reduced behavior issues, and how ongoing feedback continues to shape programming. Whether your library is planning a new teen area or working to reimagine an existing one, this session will provide realistic, youth-centered tools and help teens feel seen, valued, and welcome in the library.
Registrants will be added to this event in SCHED based on ALA registration data and will be sent details accordingly. If you are not registered for this event but would like to be, please email Sarah Polen at spolen [at] ala.org.
