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March 2, 2010

For the iGeneration, a more modern space

Times of Trenton
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Nicole Gough
SPECIAL TO THE TIMES
To the iGeneration, whose access to information is faster than ever, libraries may seem like archaic institutions that have fallen behind in the times. Images of weathered tomes and the labyrinthine Dewey Decimal System seem to have teens running in the opposite direction -- and toward a computer.

But the Hamilton Township Free Public Library is one of many facing the challenge and adapting, merging books and the Internet and creating a more modern space for today's teens. Librarian Kathleen Breitenbach is piloting that change at Hamilton.

"Prior to the library adding a specific teen librarian, service to teens and collection development in the teen department was handled by one of the reference librarians who had other responsibilities," said Breitenbach, recently hired and appointed head of Teen Services. "By having someone whose sole collection development duty is for the teen section, we can provide better service."

One of the more difficult tasks the library faces is attracting teenagers and maintaining their interest in the library. In addition to updating the library's collections, Breitenbach plans to organize programs and committees that will cater to teenagers' needs and reignite their interest in the library.

"We plan to offer a wide variety of programs, make our collections more current, do more outreach by visiting the schools and talking to teens where they are, and develop a teen advisory board," said Breitenbach. "Additionally, we are designing a space just for teens to hang out and study in the library."

The library's new initiative and outreach plan will provide teenagers with more programs and utilities that are relevant to their interests and needs. Teens visiting the library's home page are presented with a link to the Teen Review Blog, a place where they can read book reviews and explore titles that may be interesting to them.

Part of the outreach program extends to parents, introducing them to new technology as well.

"We can help others learn the emerging technologies and facilitate their use," said Breitenbach.

"We can also help guide parents through what kinds of online services their teens are using by providing information like MySpace for Parents. The library also is instrumental in helping students achieve technological literacy," she said.

Teenagers can have a say in the new program. Interested teens can join the Teen Board by contacting Breitenbach through a link on the website. As for new technological additions to the library, Breitenbach has a few ideas.

"We are experimenting with new formats for audiobooks (on MP3 CDs and Playaways), and we are purchasing new technology for the teen space," said Breitenbach.

Although the initiative is still in its early stages, Breitenbach is hopeful for the future and emphasizes the importance of an interest in public libraries.

"The library provides a community space, a place to study, to learn, and to have fun, and the best part is that it's all free," she said. "I really hope that we start seeing more teens in the library, utilizing our services and being involved in our community."

Posted by tumulty at March 2, 2010 10:52 AM

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