Zumbrota Public Library
Teen Space Ideas
Introduction
On April 9, 2009 SELCO Special Consultant Ben Trapskin met with James Hill, Library Director and Flora
Burfeind, Assistant Director / Children’s Librarian to identify potential spaces for a new teen area in the
Zumbrota Library. Potential sites were discussed and recommndations were made on how to create a
welcoming atmposphere for teens with a limited budget.
Current Situation
Currently the teen area is located in the center of the library adjacent to the children’s area as seen in
photos 1 and 2. Although this space is meant to attract teens, staff have noticed that teens are
reluctant to use the area as a gathering place. Teens that are aware of the collection will check out
materials and leave or use other parts of the library to congregate. There are no internet computers in
the teen area so teens use the adult computers which can create problems such as noise and clustering
around computers.
photo 1
Photo 2
Observations
The current location of the teen area is not ideal primarily because it is not a well defined space that is
attractive to teens. The shelving and arrangement of books is similar to the rest of the collection which
makes it hard to find via visual cues. Although there are a great variety of books, they are not faced out
or marketed to encourage circulation. Teen magazines are on the top of the shelving unit but cannot be
seen from a distance. Because this space is in the middle of the library it lacks privacy which teens often
seek out. Its close proximity to the children’s area blurs the line between “teen” and “children” spaces.
This space includes a table and chairs for teens but the wooden furniture is not ideal for teens to enjoy
the space.
James, Flora and Ben toured the library to find a new teen space that would address these observations.
Pictures 3 and 4 are of the potential new teen space. This location was chosen for the following
reasons:
• It is in a corner of the library which provides privacy and can reduce noise
• It would have a minimal impact on existing shelving compared to other sites that were identified
• Walls could be used to promote the space to teens
• Although it is in a more “private” part of the library, the sight lines from the staff desk make it
possible to still monitor behavior.
• Electrical outlets are in this space and there may be additional ethernet receptacles on the floor
for the option of adding computers
• The windows in this area provide natural light which is more inviting
• The space is large enough to accommodate the anticipated number of teens who will use the
space
Recommendations
Because the Zumbrota Library has a relatively limited amount of space for a new teen area, it is
important that the teen area is distinct enough from the rest of the library to attract teens and dissuade
others from using the space. It is recommended that teens be sought for input on the design and
decoration of the space. This can be accomplished through focus groups, establishing a teen advisory
group , surveys or a suggestion box. Ideally multiple methods would be used to get a sense of what to
include in the space. By seeking input from teens outside of the library, staff will have an opportunity to
market what the library offers to potential new patrons. Giving teens the opportunity to contribute to
the development of the space will lead to more “buy in” and ownership of the space. The following are
preliminary recommendations based on other successful teen spaces in other library systems:
• Move shelving currently used for teen materials to the open space at the front of this area to
create a more intimate setting but still provide enough visibility for staff to monitor behavior.
• Move the desk and chairs from the middle of the area will allow for new furniture such as bean
bag chairs, video rockers or other teen friendly fixtures. Furniture should be portable enough so
that it can be moved as space needs change.
• Adding notebook computers that can be checked out at the desk would free up demand in the
adult area and allow for more collaboration in the teen area.
• If notebook computers are purchased, install the free program, “Scratch” which teaches video
game design and is tailored to youth.
• Add a rug, possibly from IKEA, that is chosen by teens will help define the space and add variety.
Lamps could be used to provide more warmth to the area which would encourage teens to
linger.
• Reduce collection enough to allow for the face out of materials on each shelf so that teens can
visually navigate the collection. Use stands to display materials on the tops of the shelves
including DVDs and music.
• Get ideas from teens on posters to display on the walls. Read posters are available through ALA
Graphics that have teen appeal.
• Purchase an LCD TV for the space that can be used for gaming, movies or promoting library
events. The Nintendo Wii currently owned by the library can display pictures and has a wireless
adapter to receive and display information such as headline news or weather. This information
could be displayed during the day while the TV is not in use by teens.
• Make a pitch to local media that the library is seeking input from teens on a new space for them.
Once space is completed make another pitch to the media to advertise the space.
• Make sure the space remains current. Youth trends change quickly and it is important that the
space does not become dated.
Although the Zumbrota library has a relatively small budget for completing this project, many of these
recommendations can be accomplished solely with staff time and those that require money can be
phased in as money becomes available.
Summary
The Zumbrota Library has potential to create an innovative and inviting teen space that will attract new
users and provide new services. Teens will benefit from a space that is more tailored to their needs and
lifestyle. Adults will also benefit from the space by having less teens at the adult computers which will
free up demand. The potential space is separate enough from the rest of the library to reduce noise
complaints. There will be an increase in usage of the library and circulation of materials will increase
with more merchandising. James and Flora were encouraged to tour other teen spaces in the Hennepin
County Library system in the near future with Ben Trapskin in order to generate ideas. The new teen
space will demonstrate that the Zumbrota Library is committed to serving all residents of the area and
responsive to the needs of the community.