Norfolk Library seeks Teen Advisory Council members

By Kelly Kandra Hughes

From its terra-cotta tile roof and arched wooden ceilings to its leather chairs and oak tables, the Norfolk Library has served as a community center for 133 years. But there is one group that has been noticeably absent from the library—Norfolk teens. After informal talks with this age group, says Library Director Ann Havemeyer, it appears that some of the very design features that draw people to the library in the first place are keeping teens from feeling at home there. “We’ve heard our decor is very mature and that some teens feel like they don’t belong here because of it.”

To remedy this, the library is embarking on a new initiative this fall with teens at the forefront. “We want teens to feel like they belong here as much as anyone else,” says Havemeyer. “So we have made plans to redesign a space in the library just for them with comfortable furniture, a large monitor, a counter with lots of outlets for devices, a printer and wall space to display teen projects or artwork. The designated space is in the alcoves at the rear of the building. Our hope is that teens will come to view the library as more welcoming and these alcoves as their own.” 

In addition to designing a teen-friendly space, the library is forming a Teen Advisory Council (TAC) to help connect with teens about programs they would like to have at the library. The TAC will consist of five Norfolk teens in grades 9 through 12 who will be expected to engage with their peers on behalf of the library. TAC members will be paid a monthly stipend, and responsibilities will include attendance at twice-monthly meetings at the library and at least two teen library events. Ideal applicants should feel comfortable asking their peers for suggestions for library materials and programs and inviting them to library programs. “We have a wonderful space in the Great Hall with audio-visual equipment and would be more than happy to schedule teen nights,” says Havemeyer, “but first we need to know what programs the teens would like: movies, game nights, pizza parties, ice cream Sundays? It will be up to the teens to make suggestions.”

Selection for the TAC is through an application process; applications are available online at norfolklibrary.org/teen-advisory-council/. Any Norfolk teen entering 9th through 12th grade this school year is welcome to apply by the deadline of Saturday, July 30. TAC members will be expected to make a one-year commitment, with the possibility of renewal.