Ontario public libraries providing exceptional support to children and teens
OPLA announces new Teen Services Survey and Award Recipients

 

http://accessola.org/web/Documents/OLA/Divisions/OPLA/Child_and_youth/Teen%20Services%20Report%20-%20Web%20Version%20-%20Oct%2022.pdf

NEWS RELEASE

TORONTO, ON (November 6, 2018): Across the province, public libraries remain an essential
community partner in the provision of services for teens, according to results of the Ontario
Public Library Association (OPLA) Teen Services Survey, released today.

As the report reveals, teens are recognized as a significant demographic with unique needs and
it has become evident that libraries are responding.

Some key findings from the report include:

• Teen engagement at public libraries is on the rise, with opportunities for teens in
communities big and small to be involved in the library by participating in teen advisory
groups, strategic planning, and advising on physical teen space.

• Public libraries remain a significant source for teen volunteer opportunities, with 93%
of public libraries offering opportunities for teens to volunteer towards their OSSD
volunteer hour requirements.

• 51.3% of Ontario libraries reported having a makerspace at their library – including
50% of libraries serving fewer than 5,000 people. With more libraries incorporating
makerspace programming, OPLA has reason to believe this number has increased
further since original data was collected.

• Teen programming is evolving, with more libraries offering teen programming that
focuses on LGBTQ+ specific programming, homework help, and leadership programs.
More than half of Ontario’s libraries are offering some kind of maker programing for
teens, with just under half offering digital technology/media, STEM and robotics
programming.

• Public libraries are an important community partner, with libraries reporting more
partnerships with diverse community agencies in support of effective teen services. Now,
82% of libraries are partnering with local schools and 50% are partnering with social
services agencies.

 

The OPLA’s Child and Youth Services Committee believes with this new data on teen services,
library staff can further advocate for teens as worthy of — and entitled to — equitable services,
collections and programs that meet their unique developmental needs.

The OPLA is also pleased to recognize library staff for passion and commitment to serving their
communities. Award winners go above and beyond to promote library services, to develop
innovative programming and events, to provide exemplary readers’ advisory services, and to
improve the overall work experience of their fellow colleagues.

Congratulations to our award recipients:
• OPLA Children’s or Youth Services Librarian of the Year Award: Kelley England of King
Township Public Library
• Excellence in Children’s or Teen Services Award: Christy Giesler of Kitchener Public
Library for their Story Sheroes Program

The report and the award recipients will be announced on Tuesday, November 6, 2018 at
OPLA’s Child & Youth Services EXPO at Centennial College, Progress Campus. The annual
event celebrates the best in children, tween and teen services in Ontario public libraries. Media
are welcome.
To read the full report and to read more on our award recipients, please visit our Children and
Youth Services Committee page.

About the Ontario Public Library Association: The Ontario Public Library Association
(OPLA) is a division of the Ontario Library Association (OLA) that represents librarians and
library staff who work in public libraries in Ontario on issues of common concern.

About the Ontario Library Association: The Ontario Library Association (OLA) is a centre of
excellence for the library and information sector, with more than 5,000 members who work in
public, school, academic and special libraries. OLA members advocate for the right of
individuals to have free and equitable access to information. Our members research, develop
and participate in educational programs designed to provide exemplary library services.
Signature OLA events include the annual Super Conference and the Forest of Reading®program.
Media Contact:

Lauren Hummel
Marketing and Communications Specialist
Ontario Library Association
416.363.3388 x227
communications@accessola.com