Friday Follow Up to Monday’s Post

I’ve been thinking about my most recent post, and I think I’m missed the fact that wanting to feel confident, seen and heard is not the same as being politically engaged. Sometimes, self-care needs to simply be self-care. Even without the turbulence of today’s political environment young people have a need to be seen for who they are becoming. It’s the becoming part, the uncertainly of personal choices, that requires us to provide a bit of stability in a chaotic world. I think after we have a little more confidence it ourselves, it’s easier to engage in the world around us.

Libraries use programming and community engagement to meet our needs. Good libraries know the teens in their communities, what their needs are and what resources are available to them. Libraries are important hubs in communities that connect people to local organizations and businesses with resources.

Try the following for teens who need to feel secure about their future.

• Invite local bankers to discuss savings and investments.
• Plan a career day with local business owners from funeral home directors to air traffic controllers or medical equipment repairment.
• Create a program with astrologers or tarot card readers.
• Work with a local clinic or university to plan a series of health care events.
• Develop and implement a service project.

Letting teens decide on their own program lets them be seen and it reminds them of the importance of the democratic process. It also reminds us of the value that our young bring to our libraries and communities.

• Which is the best cold pizza?
• Which books should the library purchase?
• Which books should be read to the littles during story time?
• Compare and contrast local news broadcasts to decide which seems the most thorough and accurate.
• Create a teen bliss corner with plants, rugs, lighting and such.

Competition can lessen of a host of emotions that erode our beings.

• Continually provide lists of art and writing competitions
• Scavenger hunts, reading competitions, and cupcakes (baking, eating, decorating) are always winners.

Art is soothing.

• Kombucha and paint, anyone?
• Bring in local cosmologists for hair care tips and pointers
• Table readings of scripts from popular movies or streaming shows
• Card making
• Build a storywalk in local businesses.

Books clubs are always a winner in a library!

• Prior to reading:
  • Build a snack menu
  • Research the author
  • Design a bookmark
• Plan to read and discuss only the first 3-4 chapters in a book.
• Invite guests or outside experts to lead the discussion.
• Bring in therapy dogs during the discussion.

One great resource I found in developing ideas for teens in the library is Programming Librarian Blog https://programminglibrarian.org/.

People who work with young people often find themselves working beyond the scope of their professional training, substituting for nurses, therapists, tutors, advocates, as well as suppliers of food and clothing. Always connect with local agencies to have phone numbers and pamphlets on hand. Strategically place QR codes can take library users to helpful sites and well positioned posters, smiles, and hugs can be priceless. I intentionally did not suggest tech based activities.

I really do think we’re all in need of a little more TLC these days and in giving, we get so much in return. I’m so thankful to be a librarian. Now, I’m going find a new poster to hang by my door!

Filed under: Communities & Outreach, Libraries & Schools, self care