Are teenagers actively using a library?
According to the latest research conducted by the National Literacy Trust in the UK in 2021, around 54% of teenagers aged 13 to 18 reported using their local library within the past year. However, this number varies significantly depending on factors such as age, gender, and socio-economic background.
The research found that younger teenagers (aged 13-15) were more likely to use libraries than older teenagers (aged 16-18), with 58% of the former group reporting regular library use compared to 51% of the latter. Girls were also more likely to use libraries than boys, with 59% of girls reporting library use compared to 49% of boys.
Socio-economic factors were also found to be significant, with teenagers from disadvantaged backgrounds (defined as those eligible for free school meals) being less likely to use libraries than those from more affluent backgrounds. Only 39% of disadvantaged teenagers reported using a library within the past year, compared to 62% of their more fortunate peers.
Overall, the research suggests that while a significant proportion of teenagers in the UK do use libraries, there are still significant barriers to library use for certain groups of young people. This highlights the importance of making libraries accessible and welcoming to all, and ensuring that they provide resources and services that meet the diverse needs of teenagers in the community.
Why do teens visit their library?
Teenagers have a range of needs when it comes to the library. Here are some common reasons a teen may want to visit their library:
1. Books and other resources – Starting with the obvious! Teenagers may be looking for books, graphic novels, magazines, audiobooks, and other resources that reflect their interests and help them explore new topics.
2. Technology – Many teenagers may visit a library to use their computer services and Wi-Fi. For those less fortunate, who don’t have access at home, a library space is essential for allowing them to do any research or work they may need to do.
3. A welcoming and safe environment – Teenagers may be looking for a space where they can study, hang out with friends, or simply relax, so a comfortable and safe environment is essential.
4. Programmes and activities – Teenagers may be interested in attending workshops, clubs, or other events that allow them to explore their interests and meet other teens. For example, board game meet-ups, book club, and crafting sessions.
5. Opportunities to volunteer and give back to the community – Many teenagers are passionate about social justice and community service, so volunteering opportunities and service projects can be appealing.
Teenagers want a library that is welcoming, accessible, and responsive to their needs and interests. By providing a range of resources, programs, and services that cater to the needs of teenagers, libraries can help to support and empower this important segment of the community. Everna™ was created with all of this in mind, so you can provide your teens with their own supportive library space!
Here's what we recommend...
We recommend having a dedicated space for your teenagers so they can get the best out of your library. This can create a welcoming and safe environment for teens to explore their interests, study, and socialise. A dedicated space for teenagers can also provide them with a sense of autonomy and independence, allowing them to feel more comfortable in the library and potentially encouraging them to use the library more frequently. Additionally, it can help to minimize distractions for both teenagers and other library patrons.
Discover Everna™ Teen reading modules today…
Not sure where to start or overwhelmed by all the options available? We have a friendly, helpful team who would be happy to answer any questions you might have about accommodating book stock, space planning, budget and library design (or anything else!). Drop us a line, we’re happy to help!