Fostering public library teen engagement through connected learning
New reports for library leaders and staff
Learning and literacy that is grounded in personal relevance, meaningful relationships, civic engagement, and a sense of purpose, is what the Connected Learning Alliance describes as “connected learning.” For public libraries, building connected learning-based teen services means reimagining offerings to reflect the culture and needs of diverse teens and their communities. Two new reports offer valuable insights and recommendations for public libraries working to foster teen engagement:
- Transformative outcomes through community engagement: How public library leaders foster connected learning teen services
A strategic framework for library leaders to enhance teen services through equity, community engagement, and connected learning principles.
- Transformative outcomes through community engagement: How public library staff foster connected learning teen services
Aimed at public library staff who are directly involved in the implementation of teen services, this report offers practical, hands-on recommendations to engage teens effectively and create supportive connected learning environments.
These reports were produced by the Transforming and Scaling Teen Services for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (TS4EDI) project, led by UC Irvine. Through an extensive literature review, exploration of library partnerships, and interviews with library staff, the reports examine the systemic and cultural barriers and challenges public library staff and leaders face when working to implement connected learning through their institution. The reports highlight four main findings:
- Holistic relationships with staff and community partners are the foundation for teen engagement.
- Community partnerships expand capacity to serve youth in all areas of connected learning.
- Storytelling about youth outcomes is a compelling way to demonstrate impact.
- Staff who are lifelong learners and innovators are effective champions.
The Connected Learning Through Libraries resource site also offers checklists for leaders and staff to help put recommendations into practice and a series of blog posts that provide inspiration from libraries that are implementing connected learning in their teen services.