So what is a tween, anyway

Intro to Tween Services

Amanda Crowley, Dana DeJong-Boots, and Michele Paladines, November 2009

http://www.hellolibrary.com/school/tweens/

So what is a tween, anyway?
Tweens range in age from 8-14, or roughly 4th-8th grade. They’re “in between” childhood and adolescence.
“Tween” is a new word that describes youths between the ages of 8 and 14, who are “between” childhood and the teenage years. The term “tween” is a blend of the words “between” and “teen.”
The use and acceptance of this word became prevalent when marketing professionals used the term to help brand items for this growing demographic of 30 million individuals. In some research, tweens are lumped in with teenagers or children, making articles and program ideas hard to find.
Libraries can serve this unique population by creating programming that is geared toward tween interests. Tween programming should be less childish than programming for preschoolers or elementary-age children. To make tweens feel welcome in the library, it’s important to address this group’s strong need for group interaction and validation by providing plenty of opportunities to socialize with friends and connect with library staff. Programming can range from having a book discussion focused on a specific kind of literature, to do-it-yourself programs where tweens can make creative and customizable crafts.
It’s also important to know your audience. Asking tweens what they want is a great way to initiate a relationship with them, and it gives you good ideas of what they want from the library. Remember that successful programming results from assessing the needs of the tweens and addressing those specific needs. Well-crafted programming can make the library an important and rewarding place for tweens to spend time, and give them an opportunity to connect with the community.
What if your library board or director wants evidence that tween programming is effective and worth the time and effort? In this packet, you will find information on recent studies that demonstrate the importance of providing tween programming.
Resources
Faris, C. (2009). Betwixt and Between: Tweens in the Library. Children & Libraries, 7(1), 43-5.
Goodstein, A. (2008). What Would Madison Avenue Do?. School Library Journal, 54(5), 40-3.

The Research
• Library programs benefit the development of young adults.

• Tweens need to feel involved and respected in order to thrive.

• Library staff should view teens as valued contributors to the library community.
A 2005 study from the Chaplin Hall Center for Children at the University of Chicago showed that libraries can strengthen the skills of teenagers by addressing the needs of their younger counterparts, tweens.¹ The Chaplin Hall study suggests that library-based youth programs can enhance young people’s personal and social development by helping them develop positive relationships with peers and adults. The four-year report noted that through involvement with the library, many youths reported that they felt more confident and had a sense of responsibility toward their community. Library staff also benefit from seeing young people as a source of ideas and solutions, rather than as problems and troublemakers.
Programming gives tweens a structure in which they can thrive. The Institute of Museum and Library Services released a year-long study that examined programming in museums and libraries. ² The study noted that libraries “fill in the gaps through complimentary leadership, rich resources and effective programming.” Libraries play a unique role in youth development by “giving them opportunities for hands-on learning, support for social growth, and learning.” According to the study, the most effective programming involves youth in program design and decision making, and promotes supportive relationships between adults and youth. The study also suggests that staff should regularly evaluate and improve their programs.
A 2007 National Endowment for the Arts study revealed that “less than one-third of 13-year-olds are daily readers, a 14% decline from 20 years earlier.” ³ Without regular practice reading, tweens are unable to obtain the reading comprehension skills they will need to succeed later in life. The report shows “striking statistical links between reading, advanced reading skills, and other individual and social benefits.” These benefits include personal, professional, and social advantages later in life. Deficient readers run a higher risk of failure in all three areas.

What not to do
Library staff should recognize that tweens are a part of the community who should be treated as valued patrons rather than as a nuisance. If libraries ignore this group, they may face dire consequences. When the Maplewood Public Library (NJ) was faced with unruly middle school students, the library closed its doors from 2:45-5:00 p.m. so that tweens would not have access to the library.⁴ A library board member said that this was the only way to address the problems of tweens making noise, socializing, and congregating in the library space. The article goes on to say that after-school monitors and consultants were hired to deal with this issue. Nowhere does the library say that they tried to use programming to alleviate this issue. The town mayor finally stepped in and allocated $220,000 to solve the problem. The money went to schools, churches, and local community organizations to offer programming for tweens. Nowhere was there a mention of a young adult librarian; all of the after-school programming was to take place outside of the library. As a result, the library lost a group of patrons who can, under better circumstances, provide valuable input and support to the library. This is a clear testament to what can happen when tweens are ignored by the community and library staff.
Resources
Bittner, M. IMLS issues groundbreaking study on youth programs in

museums and libraries. http://www.imls.gov/news/2007/121707a.shtm Retrieved October 30, 2009.

Christie, Kathy (2008). Can those tweens and teens read yet? Phi Delta Kappan 89 (9), 629-30, 703.
Debraski, Sarah (2009). From the president [YALSA awards]. Young Adult Library Services 7 (3), 3.
Hughes-Hassell, S., et. al. (2006). What do you want to tell us about reading? A survey of the habits and attitudes of urban middle school students toward leisure reading. Young Adult Library Services 4 (2), 39-45.
Laza, F. Youth library programs help more than just teens. http://www.wallacefoundation.org/NewsRoom/PressRelease/Pages/YouthLibraryProgramsHelp.aspx Retrieved November 1, 2009.
Peckham, S. (2008). NEA releases study of American reading patterns. The Education Digest, 73 (6), 74-5.

 

Program ideas & examples

It can be challenging to find tried and true examples of tween programming. As Faris found while writing an article on tweens in the library, “Clearly we have a void in library literature about tweens. More best practices may need to be shared, and additional study may need to take place, to foster a better understanding of library service to young people in that all-too-confusing age between their childhood and teen years.” (Faris, 2009, p. 44)
However, here’s a start.
Fantasy Book Club

Youth Services Consultant Rita Solton outlined a plan for a Fantasy Book Club for Children and Libraries. Solton sees fantasy as serving almost as a bridge between childhood and adolescence. “As children enter their tweens and early teen years, their imaginative consciousness is overcome by their need to socialize, strive for independence, and cope in a realistic world. However, fantasy in the traditional literature serves as a vehicle for young people’s growing awareness and a way to communicate some of life’s deepest truths” (Solton, 2007, p. 34).

Solton’s program guideline builds upon familiar fairy tales, moving towards fantasy novels based on traditional tales. “Spreading the discussion sessions for the fairy tales and the fantasy novel chosen over a series of two or three meetings will allow for a complete review, appraisal, and interpretive study of all the books chosen for each basic tale” (2007, p. 35). Solton suggests three different meetings, the first focused on (re-) familiarizing tweens with the original story by reading aloud and discussing illustrated picture books of the tale. In the second session, tweens will read an original version of the tale and compare it to the previous picture book. This meeting will also introduce the novel based on the tale. During the final meeting, participants will discuss the novel by itself and in comparison to the previous versions. In the article, Solton gives examples of titles for all three meetings, picture book, original tale, and novel, for a variety of tales, including Jack and the Beanstalk, Cinderella, Rumpelstiltskin and more. “With the continual reinterpretation of classic fairy tales, upper elementary or middle school readers can glean new insight into traditional literature and develop an appreciation for literature-based book discussion as they watch their old familiar characters come to life in new, innovative, and provocative portrayals” (Solton, 2007, p. 38).
Parent/Tween Breakfast Book Club

Kim Becnel, children’s librarian at the Mandeville Branch of the St. Tammany Parish (LA) library, hosts a breakfast book club once a month on a Saturday morning for kids ages eight to eleven, along with a parent or caregiver. When planning for the book club, Becnel looks for a variety of genres, length, and formats, and also asks group members for suggestions and recommendations (2006 p. 26). She suggests, “Choose a variety with a good sprinkling of award-winners and classics; they tend to provoke good discussion. Also, parents love these selections, and happy parents bring their children to these meetings” (p. 27).

“On book club mornings, we gather in our children’s section, eat breakfast, and chat about a book we’ve all read prior to the meeting. I ask questions designed to get the children talking about the book and connecting it to their own lives.” (2006, p. 26) It seems Becnel’s focus is as much on the child as the book itself, as these questions appear to be mostly evaluative rather than the interpretive questions traditionally used in book discussion groups. The second half of the book club is dedicated to a creative project related to the book. After the book discussion focusing on friendship for Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White, each participant made glitter-covered cards for their best friend. “These cards featured glitter spider webs with words describing our friends and messages inside thanking them for the joys they bring into our lives” (Becnel, 2006, p. 26). Becnel also gives examples from previous programs such as Kate DiCamillo’s Because of Winn-Dixie and Mr. Lincoln’s Way, by Patricia Polacco (2006 p 26-7).
Tech for Tweens

The winner of VOYA’s “Most Valuable Program for 2008” is a series of Web 2.0 programs for tweens from the Lake Community Branch of the Stark County (OH) District Library (D. Rondinella; C. Rondinella 2009). Programs cover a wide range of technologies and topics, including HTML programming; Web 2.0 programs such as Skype, Twitter, Facebook, and Meebo; and searching library databases such as Ancestry.com Library Edition and HeritageQuest (D. Rondinella; C. Rondinella 2009). This emphasis on both computer programs and the World Wide Web came about to meet a need of teens and tweens observed by the young adult librarian, Cassandra Rondinella. Together with her mother, the Technology Training Coordinator, “the mother/daughter team developed the blueprint for a series of classes to help a younger generation stay in-the-know about technology” (D. Rondinella; C. Rondinella 2009 p. 280-1). As the pair write, “The overwhelming reward for students attending each class is the knowledge they gain for school, social networking, and entertainment” (D. Rodindella; C. Rodinella 2009 p. 281).

Also, several examples of tech programs for the younger set are available on the ALSC Wiki “Great Technology Programs for Children.”⁵
One example is “Scratch for 8-11 year olds” credited to Jennifer Nelson, Partnership Coordinator at Hennepin (MN) County Library. ⁶ “Kids develop a rich media project” and “have fun exploring a new way to express themselves” (Nelson 2008), using Scratch, a free software program created at MIT “designed to help young people (ages 8 and up) develop 21st century learning skills” (About Scratch). ⁷
Another is “Animated Authors” by Sarah Kepple and Dave Bullock of the Cuyahoga County (OH) Public Library. ⁸ Students entering grades 6-8 were introduced to storytelling and storyboarding and then set about creating their own video, which was animated using illustrated cells they created. Participants also edited together their story on computers, adding transitions, music and sound effects. Participants learned “that there are many different ways to express themselves through storytelling” (Kepple & Bullock 2008).
Gaming on a Grand Scale

Earlier this year, ALA and Verizon teamed up to give ten libraries $5000 grants as part of the Literacy and Gaming initiative. Liz Danforth, author of the Games, Gamers, & Gaming blog on Library Journal, took a closer look at the ten winners and shared a bit about the programs.⁹ (Danforth 2009)

One of the highlights is the winning “Geocaching: YOU are the Search Engine” program at Brewster Ladies Library, in Brewster, MA. According to the geocaching website, “Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with GPS devices. The basic idea is to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, outdoors and then share your experiences online. Geocaching is enjoyed by people from all age groups, with a strong sense of community and support for the environment” (Geocaching 2009).
The library plans to use GPS units and “create themed gaming events by devising a search promoting an understanding and appreciation for Brewster’s historic places and regional history and utilizing a book featured on the summer reading list (such as The Graveyard Book) as source material for a hunt could require students to do genealogical research at the library and visit a local cemetery to locate a cache” (Danforth 2009).
Kids! @ Your Library

As part of their Kids! @ Your Library campaign, ALSC put together several resources for libraries to use. Some of these resources specifically targeted tweens, including a library treasure hunt.¹⁰ “Clues” such as “Introduce yourself to a library staff member,” and “Locate the Magazine Section and write down the title of one of the magazines,” and “What is the Dewey Decimal/Library of Congress number for books about Science Projects?” all lead to the puzzle pieces necessary to earn the prize (ALSC 2009).

In the Kids! @ Your Library toolkit,¹¹ there are also additional tween program ideas that include a variety of suggestions, from avatar workshops to duct tape roses, and even kitchen-less recipes for food-centered programs. (Tween programs 2009).
Resources
“About Scratch.” (2009) Scratch Wiki. http://info.scratch.mit.edu/About_Scratch Retrieved November 5, 2009.
ACPL Youth Services (n.d.) “Teens and tweens.” http://acplyouthsvcs.wikispaces.com/Teens+and+Tweens Retrieved November 5, 2009.
Becnel, K. (2006). Picture books and pancakes: Breakfast book club gets tweens into reading. Children and Libraries, 4(1) 26-27.
Danforth, L. (2009, April 30). A closer look at winning libraries. Message posted to http://www.libraryjournal.com/blog/1130000713/post/1940043994.html Retrieved November 5, 2009.
“Geocaching.” (2009). http://www.geocaching.com/ Retrieved November 5, 2009.
“Great technology programs for children.” ALSC ChildTech Wiki. http://wikis.ala.org/alsc/index.php/Great_Technology_Programs_for_Children Retrieved November 5, 2009.
“Kids @ your library toolkit.” American Library Association. http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/alsc/initiatives/kidscampaign/kidstoolkit.cfm Retrieved November 5, 2009.
Keppel, S., & Bullock, D. (2008) “Animated authors.” ALSC ChildTech Wiki.

http://wikis.ala.org/alsc/index.php/Animated_Authors Retrieved November 5, 2009.

Mid-Hudson Library System. (n.d.) “EZ programs for all ages.”

http://support.midhudson.org/ezprogram/ezprogram.htm Retrieved November 5, 2009.

Nelson, J. (2008) “Scratch for 8-11 year-olds.” ALSC ChildTech Wiki.

http://wikis.ala.org/alsc/index.php/Scratch_for_8-11_Year-Olds Retrieved November 5, 2009.

Rodinella, D. & Rodinella, C. This is cool stuff: teen tech series for tech savvy teens. Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA), 34(4) 279-281.
Solton, R. (2007) Fairy tale characters breathe new life: A fantasy book club approach for tweens. Children and Libraries, 5(2) 34-39.
“Teenprograms.” (n.d.) https://teenprograms.pbworks.com/ Retrieved November 5, 2009.
“Tween programs.” (n.d.) American Library Association.

http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/alsc/initiatives/kidscampaign/tweenprogs.pdf Retrieved November 5, 2009.

YALSA. (2009) “Calendar of teen programming ideas.” http://wikis.ala.org/yalsa/index.php/Calendar_of_Teen_Programming_Ideas Retrieved November 5, 2009.

Planning a program: the basics
Need the basics on how to plan and pull off a program?

Check out this tutorial from Infopeople!¹²
You’ve reviewed the research and you’re convinced. Tween programs would be a great thing for your library. But now what? As Robyn Lupa, the head of Children’s Information Services at Jefferson County (CO) Public Library, states, “Keeping in mind the developmental stages of adolescence, as well as a general public library mission to support the informational and recreational interests of young adolescents, lots of program ideas may be generated.” (Lupa 2007, p. 95) So just how do you put together and pull off a great program for your tweens?
Defining your Audience

First things first: figure out your tweens. Who are they? What do they need from the library? What do they want in a program? It’s all about knowing your audience. It’s about knowing Taylor Lautner from Taylor Momsen from Taylor Swift, and if Pokémon is “baby-ish” but Yugi-Oh is still “cool” (or whatever kids these days are saying). As Crystal Faris, Director of Teen Services at the Kansas City (MO) Public Library and chair of the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC) Research and Development Committee, points out, “To know what tweens want from libraries, we may too need to do our research. Asking questions of tweens, observing their use of the library, and participating in formal research studies all have importance in understanding the population and providing excellent library service” (Faris, 2009, p. 44).

So what does this entail? One of the easiest methods is to use your power of observation. Look at your community (and “community” can apply to schools, too.). Where are the tweens? What are they doing? What’s popular with them, and how can you connect it back to the library? What programs are already offered for tweens? What will your programs compete with? Can your programs fill an unmet need?
Going straight to the source is always a good thing, too. Talk to your regulars, both those that are there because they want to be, and those that are there because they have to be (at least until their ride picks them up). Maybe the right program can move a tween from the latter category to the former. These meetings can be one-on-one or in groups, as formal as getting together an advisory board to serve as a focus group, or as informal as striking up a conversation with the tweens hanging out in your library. Don’t discount other ways of reaching out to tweens, either. Give them their own space on the website, or use a blog (both which will come in handy when it comes time to promote your program) to post announcements or polls and elicit their comments. Figure out who they are as a whole, as well as individuals, and what makes them tick.
And when doing programming for tweens, keep it just for tweens. There’s a big difference between a 9-year-old and a 14-year-old, but that sometimes seems to pale in comparison to the difference between a 14-year-old and a 16-year-old. “You do not want to compromise the integrity of this ‘tween-only space by allowing other age groups in. The more you develop the reputation that your programs are just for them, the more young adolescents will encourage their friends to join in” (Lupa, 2007, p. 106). This doesn’t mean that you stop offering teen programs in favor of tween programs. Tween-specific programs just fill in a gap that often catches young people between children’s and teen library programs. In fact, good tween programs may ultimately benefit your teen-specific programs, keeping youth as library patrons at a time when it often seems that we, as librarians, lose them.
Program Ideas

Now that you’ve figured out who your tweens are, it’s time to move on to figuring out what they want and what they need. Library programs can cater to both the readers that are already in the library, as well as the skaters we’ve been chasing off the front steps and out of the parking lot. As Madeline Walton-Hadlock, youth services librarian at the San Jose (CA) public library and member of ALSC’s Children and Technology Committee, writes, “To figure out what types of programs would work best in your community, talk to the kids you see every day. They may have creative ideas far beyond the imagination of librarians! At the very least, they can probably help you translate terms like “Webkinz” or “PS2” and tell you about their interests. (2008, p 55).

Also, when you were figuring out who your tweens were, what did you notice they were they doing? Flipping though graphic novels? Maybe a manga drawing program would be popular. Updating their Facebook page? Perhaps an avatar workshop would be in order, or a parent/tween Internet safety seminar. Hanging out and eating? You’d be amazed what you can whip up without an oven or stovetop. Don’t forget to look at your collection as well. Lupa suggests, “Check the return carts to determine what is circulating. Learn about young adolescents in your service area by scrutinizing their borrowing habits. Witchcraft, astrology, true crime, vegetarianism, skateboarding, beauty, drawing and NASCAR may be a few. If the waiting list for top forty CDs are sky high, you will probably attract ample interest in a karaoke night” (2007 p. 91). If tweens show an interest in a topic where a guest speaker would be appropriate, collaborate with other agencies and bring in authors, artists, athletes, musicians or even the K-9 unit of the local law enforcement for a talk or demonstration (Lupa 2007 p. 94-95).
When considering program ideas, keep developmental changes in mind. Tweens are at a transitional stage: they are no longer children, but not yet teenagers (though many of them desperately want to be). The goal is to create a program specifically for this between-stage that tweens will actually attend. Through programming, you are, in part, marketing the library and the services it has for tweens. So try to think like a marketer. As Faris writes, “Libraries could learn from the demographic and marketing studies of tweens. Clearly what libraries offer this age group needs to be less childish than something availed to preschoolers or elementary school age children. At the same time, what libraries offer should not be so sophisticated as to make tweens feel uncomfortable and frustrated” (2009, p. 44). It is likely that your library has some programs that you could adapt and tailor specifically to tweens, such as book discussion groups and technology programs, which could serve as good starters.
A book group for tweens looks a lot like a book group for any other age, just with a specific age demographic and appropriate titles. As Lupa points out, “Some of the most rewarding programs are book discussion groups. Recruit some reliable people whom you know will show up from week to week to be your core group. Make flyers and advertise that you will have snacks during the first planning meeting. Let the kids decide on the list of books they would like to read and discuss. Let them also decide when to meet” (2007, p. 99). Kim Becnel, the children’s librarian in charge of a tween/parent breakfast book club for her library, has additional practical advice gleaned from her personal experience. She suggests everything from getting the phone numbers of participants to call them with a reminder prior to the program, to having copies of the book for the next program available for check out at the end of the program, to “warming up” by sharing favorite moments and characters, to generally staying out of the discussion and only guiding when necessary (2006 p. 27).
As for technology, to stay current, many libraries now have video game consoles, MySpace or Facebook pages, blogs, and Twitter accounts. They have increased the size of their computer labs and software offerings, yet there has been little emphasis on programming for any group other than teens, including tweens on the younger end of the spectrum. A survey administered in the spring of 2008 by the ALSC Children and Technology Committee shows less than one-fifth of librarians currently offer technology programming for children under age 12 (as cited in Walton-Hadlock 2008 p. 52). As Walton-Hadlock writes, “Most experts agree that a child’s exposure to technology should be meaningful, involve collaboration with other people, include time limits, and more over should not be a substitute for outside play, exposure to print, and personal interactions” (2008 p. 54). A tween game night at the library would certainly fit that criteria, as would many other potential technology-centered library programs.
Like using ideas for book groups or previous technology programs for tween programming inspiration, also consider using the children’s department as a resource. They will know many of the regular tweens from their days in storytime and puppet shows. Most children’s departments do lots of programming and, in addition to some programming pointers, they may have some material that can cross over to tweens. Lupa writes, “The favorite drawing guy hired year after year should not be limited to showing second graders how to make simple cartoons. He can easily adapt to instruct teens on drawing elaborate mythological creatures.” (2007, p 93-94.)
If you are still feeling stuck and need a creativity boost, it can help to get the tweens themselves involved. As Lupa states, “Youth are empowered when they help with program preparation.” (2007, p. 90) Get an advisory group together to help with the planning. They may have some great ideas you would have never thought of. Take advantage of their ideas. They are, after all, the experts. (Oh, and try not to tell too many “when I was your age” stories. We don’t want any injuries from too much eye rolling.) Treat them with respect and really listen. You value them and their opinions enough to want to create programming for them. Go ahead and show them that. As Faris points out, “One thing adults know for sure about tweens comes from what adults have always known for sure about teens—adults must work at knowing what is popular and interesting for them. Knowing what is cool or in right now is not a natural skill for adults” (2009, p. 44). It can be tough, but the more time you spend around tweens, talking to them and observing them, the easier it will become to create programming to meet their wants and needs.
Time and Place

Now that you’ve got an idea (or ten), consider the timing for the program. When are tweens at the library? When can they get rides to the library? When do they have other activities? When do they have more free time? Of course it would be impossible to have a time when there are no conflicts and everyone who is interested in your program could come, but holding a Twilight Saga trivia contest on the same night that "Vampire Diaries" airs on TV might not be a great idea.

Also consider where you will hold the program and when that space is available. If it is going to be in a generic space like a meeting room, create some atmosphere with music, posters and other art, display tables, and if possible, even lighting (Lupa 2007). Tweens don’t often have their own space; usually they have to share with spaces for children or young adults. Make a space “theirs,” if only for a short time.
Promotion

Once you’ve had an idea, created a plan, and set a date, the next step is getting the word out. Use posters, fliers, and library websites (and any tween specific sites, such as a blog, if you have one) to promote your program. See if you can put up fliers at the school or have a quick blurb read on the announcements. Scope out community bulletin boards where tweens hang out and post fliers. Consider writing up a press release for the paper, as well as the local community radio station and television channel. Maybe sidewalk chalk outside of the library entrance would catch someone’s attention. Remember, the most effective marketing is word of mouth, so talk it up. If a group of tweens inspired your program idea, make sure to let them know it. As Lupa points out, “There is no doubt that you will find yourself planning programs with names and faces already in mind. Be sure to get their buy-in immediately and urge them to bring the whole gang” (2007, p. 92). And if there’s going to be food, make sure to put that on your promotional materials. Snacks are always a big draw.

Evaluation

Another thing to do before the main event is to figure out your evaluation. No, you can’t actually evaluate your program until after it has happened, but you have to at least know how you are going to evaluate your program before the actual event. As library consultant Rhea Joyce Rubin writes, “Planning and evaluation are always two sides of the same coin” (2006 p. 10).

When evaluating your program, it’s a good idea to look at two types of measures: quantitative and qualitative.
Quantitative measures are numbers and answer the question “how many,” and libraries love numbers. How many people came? How many signed up? How many were on the waiting list? How many books were left on the display? How many people were put on hold lists for items on the resource list? How many pizzas were consumed? Quantitative measures are fairly straightforward to tally. To evaluate, often a straight apples-to-apple comparison is used. How did attendance compare to previous events? How did interest (sign-ups, including waiting list) compare to actual attendance? Did circulation go up? How much? Will you need to order more pizza next time?
Qualitative measures are much more difficult to determine, and while we librarians like our numbers, patrons are more concerned with how the library meets their expectations (Hernon & Altman 1998). What do your patrons actually get out of your program? How do you know? Each program should have a goal—think active verbs, such as “educate” and “inform, and even “enjoy” and “be entertained” (Theyer 2008). Remember that “fun” is a valid reason for doing a program. It caters to tweens’ growing social needs and shows the library in a positive light. As Lupa points out, “A worthy goal is to inspire young adolescents to view us as a community center, not only by providing computers, homework materials, and in-demand reading or listening materials, but also by caring enough to offer extras” (2007, p. 88). Now how do you measure something like “fun?” It’s a judgment call. However, it can be done. What you want is people’s opinions on the program. Did it meet their expectations? Did it meet yours?
Consider using simple paper evaluations, handed out at the end of the program to gauge success and elicit comments from participants. They don’t have to be complicated. You can even download one created by Infopeople that may work perfectly for your program. ¹³ Lupa’s tips for paper evaluations are “Keep them simple: how do you rate the program on a scale of 1-10? What did you like best or least? What other programs would you like the library to offer?” (2007 p. 107). Also, talk to the tweens, either formally or informally. Take advantage of the regulars who are comfortable with you and ask them their honest opinion. Let them know you want to make their programs the best possible, and their opinion counts. If a group of tweens helped you plan the program, get together afterwards for a debriefing, and go over what worked and what did not, taking notes for the future. Finally, don’t forget your own observations: they’re just as important as the patrons’. How do you think it went? What went well? What could have been better? What reactions did you see from the tweens? Were they bored? Excited? Where they engaged and having a good time or were they watching the clock?
It is possible that you may need a more formal approach than the previous approach to evaluating and “…quantifying library user’s success stories” (Rubin 2006 p. 2). More and more, government and private funders are checking on their investment and requiring outcome measurement to assess the programs they funded (Rubin 2006 p. 12). Outcome measurement is defined as “…a user-centered approach to the planning and assessment of programs or services that are provided to address particular user needs and designed to achieve change for the user” (Rubin 2006 p. 3). Rubin explains, “…outcome measurement answers the question: ‘What difference did our program make to the participant.’” and judges skills, attitude, behavior, or condition and status (Rubin 2006 p. 2). If using outcome measurement, Rubin suggests programs have a clearly defined mission, a stable program staff (including volunteers), supportive stakeholders, including library administration, and a minimum of two years to plan, initiate a new program, and evaluate it (2006 p. 15). If you need more information on outcome measurement, see Rubin’s book, Demonstrating Results: Using Outcome Measurement in Your Library (2006).
Resources
Association for Library Service to Children. (2008). Check out the results of our spring survey. http://wikis.ala.org/alsc/index.php/Check_out_the_results_of_our_Spring_Survey Retrieved September 10, 2008.
Becnel, K. (2006). Picture books and pancakes: breakfast book club gets tweens into reading. Children and Libraries, 4(1) 26-27.
Faris, C. (2009). Betwixt and between: tweens in the library. Children and Libraries,7(1), 43-45.
Hernon, P. & Altman, E. (1998). Assessing service quality: satisfying the expectations of library customers. Chicago: American Library Association.
Infopeople (2008). Program evaluation form. http://infopeople.org/training/past/2008/branch/Program_Evaluation_Form.pdf. Retrieved November 5, 2009.
Kenney, B. (2007). YALSA, Your Work Isn't Over. School Library Journal, 53(2), 11.
Lupa, R. (2007). Programming for ‘tweens and young teens. In Anderson, S. B. (Ed.), Serving young teens and ‘tweens (87-109). Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.
Rubin, R. J. (2006). Demonstrating results: using outcome measurement in your library. Chicago: American Library Association.
Solton, R. (2007). Fairy tale characters breathe new life: a fantasy book club approach for tweens. Children and Libraries, 5(2) 34-39.
Theyer, H. (2008). Library program plan. http://infopeople.org/training/past/2008/branch/Program_Plan_Tutorial.pdf. Retrieved November 3, 2009.
Walton-Hadlock, M. (2008). Tots to tweens: age-appropriate technology programming for kids. Children and Libraries, 6(3) 52-55.

Funding
• Tween programming doesn’t have to be expensive.

• Local businesses and organizations are good sources of funding and donations.

• Grant funding is available through government and corporate sources.

• Your library has resources available - use them!

Here's the good news: a lot of great tween programs don't require much money. Book release events, cooking parties, and craft programs will easily fit within the program budgets of most libraries, especially if you get a little creative. Dollar stores, warehouses, and discount grocers like ALDI often have great deals. It’s not a bad idea to just head over to a craft store every couple of months and buy a bunch of whatever is on sale. For craft projects (and there are some great ones for tweens, like tie-dye socks and collage notebooks), a well-stocked supply cabinet can make your life a lot easier - and keep your spending down.
Additionally, even if the library doesn't have a membership at a discount warehouse (i.e. Sam's Club, Costco), one of your staff members might. These stores are a great place to buy large quantities of food, paper plates and cups, toys, and craft supplies, among other things.
When it comes to food - which is one of the key components of a good tween program - your neighbors are your best friends. Local restaurants, and even some chains, are often eager to get some free publicity and will be happy to send a couple of pizzas (or burritos, sub sandwiches, and so on) your way. Do your best to make connections with nearby businesses and maintain them. One Chicago-area library holds an annual "Pizza Taste-Off," for which they receive donated cheese pizzas from five or six local pizzerias. The kids then vote on the best pizza in several categories, and each pizzeria receives a certificate informing their customers that they have the "Best Crust," "Spiciest Sauce," etc. The businesses get some publicity, and the tweens get delicious pizza – it’s a great trade-off. This is particularly helpful because grants rarely cover the costs of food and beverages.
Those are all inexpensive ways to attract and entertain tweens, but some of the equipment for popular, effective tween programs - particularly gaming - can get pretty expensive. Luckily, many community organizations and companies have grants available for this purpose, or will donate equipment and provide gaming supplies. Among the organizations that provide these types of grants are Best Buy¹⁴ and Wal-Mart.¹⁵ Typically, you will apply for these grants through your local store, who may also provide volunteers to help with your programs.
Many grants are offered through state governments. In the state of Illinois, there are a number of avenues for general funding that could be used for tween programs. Libraries in lower-income areas may be eligible for an Equalization or Per Capita grant, which can be used for a range of purposes, including programming, collection development, and equipment purchases.
The American Library Association, as well as the Young Adult Library Services Association, both provide grants that can support tween programming.¹⁶ During 2009's Teen Tech Week, the ALA (in conjunction with Verizon) provided twenty libraries with $500 grants, some of which were for specific technology-oriented program, with others used simply to purchase equipment and games.¹⁷ Next year's Teen Tech Week will be held March 7-13, 2010.
Using the resources that exist in your library is always an option, too. Can’t find the money to purchase a gaming console? Borrow one from a staff member (or their kids) for the afternoon, and rent games from other libraries or video stores. If you want to reach out to tweens through technology, like podcasts, social networking sites, or YouTube videos, get a tech-savvy staff member to give the rest of the staff a crash course in using those technologies.
Book clubs are also relatively inexpensive. In many library systems, it’s possible to put several copies of the book for that month on hold, so you don’t have to buy a copy for each member of your club. However, if you have the funds, purchasing a discounted paperback edition for each member can be nice, especially in lower-income communities where children may not have access to books at home.

Q&A with Abigail Goben

Youth Services Librarian, La Crosse (WI) Public Library

How do you define “tweens?”

My definition of tweens is the 8-12 category. One can argue broader or narrower but when I’m thinking about books and programming I’m considering those age ranges. And that can cover a LOT of ground, they’re changing so fast through those years.

What do you like about working with tweens?

I like working with tweens because you have just a little more control. I’m still the adult. Certainly there are ones who have decided authority doesn’t apply to them but the majority of them still look up to adults. I’m younger than most of their parents (for a few more years, I’m 27 now), so I have the chance to be the “cool adult.” As I’m unmarried and don’t have kids (and am rather open about that fact) the ones who see me regularly tend to think of me as kind of a fun aunt. Tweens also usually haven’t quite hit the hormonal swings and attitudes of teenagers. There’s a huge cult in library world right now for getting teens into the library, in my opinion, if you wait that long, you’re forcing your teen librarians to climb uphill. Why not get/keep them engaged as tweens.

What has been your most successful program for tweens?

Most successful: knitting. *Insert stereotype here* I’ve been knitting for 17 years, so long before the latest round of “knitting is cool, hip, back” etc. I enjoy it, I’m good at it, and I’m a decent teacher, so I put it out there as a program for kids. It took a little while to build but now I have 10-15 kids weekly and most of them have been with me a year or more. The kids like it because I don’t try to force projects on them. I’ll teach them whatever they want to learn, but they have to decide what they’d like to make. The only thing I make them do to start is a headband/earwarmer. Shorter and faster than a scarf—much more instant gratification for kids. I’m on my second “advanced techniques” course for the fall. And that’s also turned into a big way that I get new books into kids hands. I do book talks usually every other week and will bring in a pile of books from the collection. New books, older book, series they might like. At this point I have a pretty good idea of what they all read and I can pull out more obscure titles in their preferred genres.

How did you judge your success?

Success? Long standing? The Knitting program has been going nearly two years. I’m going to wind up after the spring for a while. Some of the parents are burning out and I’d like some flexibility to try other things. Generally, if the kids came (which in this day and age of overscheduling is something); if they appear to have had a decent time; and especially if I’ve managed to get them to create something and/or take a book with them and/or learn something—that’ll work. Bonus points if they come back and tell me they liked a book or ask for another recommendation.

Do you have any advice for librarians creating and/or facilitating programming for tweens?

1) Treat them maturely. Yes, they are kids but the more you expect from them, the better they’ll deliver. 2) Don’t shun them for not being teens. They will be soon enough 3) Get rid of the parents—my kids are very comfortable with me. You put another adult in the room (who isn’t a passing staff member that they know) and the room goes dead. 4) Program at their level and make sure it’s for them. They’re not teens, though they desperately want to be (some of them). Still, they’re not ready for teen stuff, at least not all of the hormones. There’s a reason we have very solid “middle school” books and those should be utilized. On the flip side of that, they aren’t babies/toddlers/preschoolers. Too many programmers make the mistake of allowing younger kids in the room, which means the tweens feel relegated to being “helpers.” They like the opportunity to help but let them do their own thing. You can tell younger kids “no.”

Find more from Abigail on her blog, Hedgehog Librarian¹⁸.

Q&A with Leeann O’Malley-Schott

Patron Service Specialist, Douglas County (CO) Libraries

How do you define “tweens?”

“Tweens“ are kids ages 10 – 12 (grades 4 – 6). They are on the cusp between childhood and adolescence.

What do you like about working with tweens?

They are still young enough (socially and emotionally) to avoid being jaded but also old enough to participate in weightier discussions. I facilitate a Mother/Daughter book discussion group for girls in grades 4-6 and a significant woman in their lives. I am often surprised at the philosophical and worldly observations made by these “young” girls.

What has been your most successful program for tweens?

Our youth librarians throughout our district take prepared book talks to the local elementary schools. These “Review Crews” go to classrooms/media centers and talk books with kids in grades 3-6.

How did you judge your success?

I consider it a success when the children we have visited in the schools come into the public library. They are more comfortable and relaxed approaching us because we are now a familiar face.

Do you have any advice for librarians creating and/or facilitating programming for tweens?

At our Mother/Daughter book group I always have crayons/colored pencils and coloring sheets available. Something to do with their hands helps while they are listening. (Hey, even the adults love the coloring!) A great source that I use is Coloring Castle. They have some advanced coloring selections. The girls/moms in our group really enjoy the mandalas and geometric pages.

Do not get discouraged if initially they appear shy and aloof. It may take a little while to draw some of them out. Patience is the key. You will be surprised by some of the pearls of wisdom they come up with

Additional Resources
Anderson, S. B. (Ed.). (2007). Serving young teens and ‘tweens. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.

Lupa’s chapter on programming is only part of this guide to serving tweens in the library. Also covered is development of tweens, fiction and non-fiction resources and booktalking for tweens.

Chelton, M. K. (Ed.). (1997). Excellence in library services to young adults: The nation’s top programs (2nd ed.). Chicago: American Library Association.

This sourcebook highlights fifty top library programs for young adults that can easily be adapted for tweens.

J-14 Magazine

This teen and tween pop-culture gossip magazine is a great resource for keeping up with what’s in with tweens.

Gerding, Stephanie K. and Pamela H. Mackellar (2006). Grants for libraries: A how-to-do-it manual. New York: Neal Schuman Publishers, Inc.
Kuharets, O. R. (2001). Venture into cultures: a resource book of multicultural materials and programs (2nd ed.). Chicago: American Library Association.

Though written primarily with children in mind, you’ll still find some great ideas for programs based on cultures from across the globe you can adapt for tweens.

Lesesne, Teri (2006). Naked reading: Uncovering what tweens need to become lifelong readers. Portland, Maine: Stenhouse Publishers.

Why do some tweens read and others cringe at the mere mention of a book? Naked Reading explores how young people become lifelong readers, and includes strategies for encouraging reading.

Lesesne, Teri (2003). Making the match: The right book for the right reader at the right time, Grades 4-12. Portland, Maine: Stenhouse Publishers.

A great guide to readers advisory for tweens and teens.

Lillian, J. (Ed.). (2009). Cool teen programs for under $100. Chicago: Young Adult Library Services Association.

No need to bust the budget for a great program with tween appeal. Includes everything from crafts to technology and also has a section on reaching underserved populations such as teen parents or immigrants.

Mad Magazine

Social parody, political humor, and downright goofiness all wrapped into a fun-filled package with tween appeal (and beyond).

Neiburger, E. (2007). Gamers...in the library?! : The Why, What, and How of Videogame Tournaments for All Ages. Chicago: American Library Association.

Want to learn about gaming? It’s all here in this crash course in how and why to have gaming tournaments for all ages in your library.

School Library Journal

Not just for school librarians, this magazine includes reviews, news and features useful for all librarians working with young people, children to teens.

“Tweens.” (2009) Ypulse New York, NY: Youth Pulse, Inc. http://www.ypulse.com/wordpress/wordpress/category/tweens Retrieved November 5, 2009.

A website dedicated to marketing to teens, tweens and “Generation Y” and a great resource for keeping up with what’s current, especially with media.

“Teen people” (2009) New York NY: Time. http://www.people.com/people/package/0,,20045075,00.html Retrieved November 5, 2009.

This teen-version of People magazine has gone online-only, but will still keep you (and your tweens) updated on all the latest gossip.

Teen Vogue Magazine

The little sister of “Vogue” keeps younger readers just as fashionable and stylish as their older counterparts.

Transworld SKATEboarding Magazine

This magazine offers an inside look at skate culture for skateboarders of all ages, as well as providing the news, product reviews and profiles they want and need.

Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) Magazine

Published bi-monthly, this magazine covers a wide range of topics for anyone working with young adults. Keep an eye out for each October issue, which features the year’s best programs.

Wilson, P. P. & Leslie, R. Center stage: Library programs that inspire middle school patrons. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited.

This planning handbook outlines ideas for school library programs from planning to execution to evaluation for middle school students.

1^ http://www.wallacefoundation.org/NewsRoom/PressRelease/Pages/YouthLibraryProgramsHelp.aspx

2^ http://www.imls.gov/news/2007/121707a.shtm

3^ http://www.nea.gov/news/news07/TRNR.html

4^ http://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/02/nyregion/02library.html

5^ http://wikis.ala.org/alsc/index.php/Great_Technology_Programs_for_Children

6^ http://wikis.ala.org/alsc/index.php/Scratch_for_8-11_Year-Olds

7^ http://scratch.mit.edu/

8^ http://wikis.ala.org/alsc/index.php/Animated_Authors

9^ http://www.libraryjournal.com/blog/1130000713/post/1940043994.html

10^ http://ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/alsc/initiatives/kidscampaign/gamesactivities/treasurehunt5to8.cfm

11^ http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/alsc/initiatives/kidscampaign/kidstoolkit.cfm

12^ http://infopeople.org/training/past/2008/branch/Program_Plan_Tutorial.pdf

13^ http://infopeople.org/training/past/2008/branch/Program_Evaluation_Form.pdf

14^ http://www.bestbuy-communityrelations.com/community_grants.htm

15^ http://walmartstores.com/CommunityGiving/10526.aspx

16^ http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/yalsa/awardsandgrants/yalsaawardsgrants.cfm

17^ http://wikis.ala.org/yalsa/index.php/Teen_Tech_Week_%40_your_library#Teen_Tech_Week_2009_Mini_Grant_Winners.27_Events

18^ http://www.hedgehoglibrarian.com