By Brian M. Hildreth, Executive Director – Southern Tier Library System
Friday, April 10, 2015
“To Rachel’s surprise, one child was dressed as the coolest superhero of all… a librarian. More understandably, she dressed like her librarian, Rachel Knapton.”
I find it refreshing to speak with anyone who works with children or young adults. It is even more enjoyable to speak with individuals who work with youth in libraries, either school or public. Perhaps it is the inflection in their voice as they describe their trade that inspires me. Or maybe, it is their genuine love for humans who have yet to truly experience a world that is sometimes unjust. Regardless, of my gratitude for youth educators, their craft is one that sets the tone for a life worth experiencing.
The highlight of my week was observing Youth Services Consultant Lorie Brown lead forty plus member librarians in discussion on effective ways for connecting with Southern Tier youth. I honestly believe youth services are still the core competency of public libraries. Despite the rapid growth of technology-based services, youth services are the one thing public libraries do consistently well.
In any given year, you can review the statistical report of Southern Tier member libraries. Time and time again, youth services will surface as the strongest provider of programming. 44 of 48 member libraries offered children and YA programs in 2013. Only 17 of 48 provided some form of digital literacy classes. Moreover, 1,199 children and YA programs were implemented in the same year. 582 was the figure for digital literacy classes. One library accounted for 36% of the digital class offerings. Lastly, 28,459 children and young adults participated in 2013 library programs, and 4,758 community members attended digital literacy classes.
It is frustrating to interpret these figures. I guess the two things I notice most are (1) only 17 of 48 libraries offered digital literacy classes, and (2) 28,459 children and young adults participated in programs.
It is evident member libraries and STLS (the organization) need to address the lack of computing classes. There is way too much of a digital divide in our region to not take a leading role in technology education. We build ourselves up as the community institution for free Wi-Fi and public computers, but yet we fail to educate people on how to use these technologies effectively. In my opinion, we don’t get to wear the badge of unabridged access if we don’t teach people how to purposefully cross the bridge. But, I digress.
In 2013, 28,459 children and young adults participated in library programs. This figure represents 10% of our region’s population. However, the 28,459 number is much more significant. There are roughly 60,726 residents under the age of 18 in our five-county area (2010 US Census). This means 46.9% of residents under 18 attend library programs. I understand the 28,459 number does not represent unique users, but it certainly indicates the impact youth service programs have on our communities.
The best anecdote from Thursday’s meeting was when Sarah Crevelling, youth services librarian at Penn Yan Public Library, put Rachel Knapton, director of youth services at Dundee Public Library, on the spot. Sarah referred to a time when Rachel organized Dundee Library’s 3rd Annual Fairy Festival. The children were encouraged to dress as their favorite superhero. To Rachel’s surprise, one child dressed as the coolest superhero of all… a librarian. More understandably, she dressed like her librarian, Rachel Knapton.
I want to thank Lori Brown for organizing such a great event! As one of many STLS staff members who organize continuing education, I know these things require a lot of work and sleepless nights. In fact, I know she is still working on the post-event stuff all day today.
I also want to thank our member librarians who work with children and young adults. Your strength is in numbers, and your impacts are immeasurable. Thank you for being such great superheroes, and may the strength be with you this summer as thousands of youth storm your program rooms.
Have a great weekend, STLS. It is an honor to be part of such a great institution.
Kindest Regards,
Brian M. Hildreth, Executive Director
Southern Tier Library System
Follow me on Twitter: @comlibpartner
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| Photo courtesy of Filomena Jack. |
