YA Library Advisory Board: Virtual Engagement
Miami-Dade Public Library System, Fla.
Innovation Synopsis
The Kendale Lakes Branch of the Miami-Dade Public Library System successfully transitioned the Young Adult Library Advisory Board from in-person to a virtual format to keep addressing members’ needs during the pandemic. Identified needs include ongoing library engagement for volunteer hours, library advisory functions and to provide a social outlet.
Challenge/Opportunity
Kendale Lakes Branch Library established a new Young Adult Library Advisory Board in January 2020. In exchange for input on improving library services for the needs of Young Adults, participants received volunteer hours. COVID-19 shutdowns challenged retention of a new engagement with an underserved audience. KL staff kept regular contact with volunteers, fostering relationships. “Safer at home” orders required content changes to suit the participants in adjusting to new, unusual and stressful circumstances.
Key Elements of Innovation
Structure: Minimum two staff facilitate all asynchronous contact via WhatsApp and meetings in Zoom, about one hour per week.
Program Uniqueness: Paradigmatic shift as KL found means for continuing YALAB teen engagement by maintaining contact during shutdown, rapport-building, easing isolation “blues” in virtual social space providing outlet for expression and to destress by discussing books, movies, shows and media, and testing free, online games and content. YALAB input results in new events, e.g., weekly games and YALAB members attend other systemwide library programs.
Achieved Outcomes
Target issue: Retain teen connection during COVID-19 closures ensuring YALAB continuity.
Success metrics are participation and positive feedback.
Achievements: Charter group are ambassadors. Attendance grew during closures. The group attends other library events together and tests new virtual program content. Members' changing needs have been met, e.g., ongoing progress to service requirement, parent-approved extracurricular activity, stress relief in an nonjudgmental, safe space. The program model presentation was well-received by the system’s staff.
