According to the American Community Survey 2022 Population Estimate, the new adult demographic (those aged 18 to 35 years) is a growing population quantitatively rivaling other demographics in Ohio: 19.6% of Ohio's population are new adults as compared to children (17.8%), teens (6.4%), and retirees (18.5%). Though largely overlooked by society (once you're over 18, you're considered in the broad category of "adult"), one's 20s and 30s is an integral stage in human lifespan development and self-discovery, marked by immense change--starting college, a career, a family (American Psychology Association). That is why it is important, through collaborative efforts between Adult and Teen departments, public libraries support new adult patrons throughout this particular period of change.
In this updated presentation, (first presented at Ohio Library Council’s 2023 Convention and Expo), Kelly Chaplin (Teen Librarian, Akron-Summit County Public Library), Ris Labib (Business Government and Science Librarian, Akron-Summit County Public Library), and Emily Hoffman (Culture & AV Librarian, Akron-Summit County Public Library) will discuss how they are helping to connect with and serve new adult patrons through programming, collection development, and outreach.
Kelly Chaplin is a Teen Services Librarian from Akron-Summit County Public Library in Akron, Ohio. Kelly has helped organize large scale programs such as the Library's mini-comicon Geekfest and implemented youth-requested programs such as After Hours events and Teen Dungeons and Dragons. She has led programming, from Murder Mystery Dinners to STEM Space Challenges, that help deliver educational and social lessons that are of interest to teens. She enjoys when teens teach her new things or when they gush about a favorite book, and she encourages youth to participate at their library and in the community. Above all, she is committed to helping teens succeed.
Emily Hoffman is an Adult Services Librarian from Akron-Summit County Public Library in Akron, Ohio. Emily has worked at various locations at the library and has had many distinct roles throughout the system. She has lead programs for both the teen and young adult demographic. She loves it when she can go out into the community and teach others what the library is like in the 21st century. Focusing on the demographic that she understands, and is a part of, is something that she strives to accomplish in her library work. She wants to grab the attention of the audience who may not see what the library can do for them. She loves it when she can be with others, such as her husband, who loves nerdy movies and all things video games.
Ris Labib is an Adult Services Librarian at the Akron-Summit County Public Library in Akron, Ohio. She believes in the power of a good book and a good program to positively impact the lives of patrons. She has been talking with others about books—in a professional and personal capacity—since middle school and was even on NPR! Her programs range from the yearly large-scale events (Akron Eats, Many Voices) to the more intimate monthly ones (Akron Mirror, Think & Drink Book Club). Ris is passionate about bridging the gap in services between adolescence and adulthood—a gap that was, sadly, experienced and felt in her own life.
Cost:
- FREE for Supporting Members
- $10 for Geographic Members
- $20 for Individual Members
Continuing Education:
- You will receive a certificate for 1 CEU Credit
This webinar will be recorded and the archive, slides, and any other materials will be sent to registrants afterwards to view at any time.
