‘Talk to them like they’re people’: A cross-cultural comparison of teen-centred approaches in public library services

The aim of this research is to observe and analyse cross-cultural examples public libraries with strong teen services, identify key elements practice approach that enable these libraries’ successful impactful interactions teenagers. A particular focus placed on factors are a matter mind-set rather than specific facilities, offer as transferable lessons can be applied widely, including by smaller those fewer resources. comparative case study was conducted at two locations selected services in their respective regions: Lava TioTretton Sweden Tompkins County Public Library the United States. Data were collected via interviews, observation document analysis. Key identified contributing successful, teen-centred include providing space, no how small, solely for teens, where they experience sense ownership belonging; according teens same respect any other library visitor; creating space comfortable actively signals everyone welcome; letting take lead, staff following interests serving facilitators projects; flexibility spaces programming; employing who have varied expertise genuinely enjoy working young people; mingling interacting visitors; continually re-evaluating improving practices.