Children are very different than Teens. We’ve also got to remember that there are Tweens in there as well. There are three distinct service groups for ages 0-18, and this move to combine ALSC and YALSA is just stupid. Children’s services in public libraries have always (ALWAYS) gotten more support and love than Tween and Teen Services, and a move like this just says “you know, those youth are all the same”. It sounds like boomer garbage.

In my opinion, there is one path forward: Children’s Services, Tween Services, and Teen Services. Three separate sets of people, three separate sets of services, all with one goal: be the best librarians that we can be for the youth in our community. I know that this may seem like a dream that will never come true, but if we don’t try to make the dream come true it never will.

BUT, on the other hand like I’ve said before, I believe that professional organizations are there to just siphon away much needed funds from your budget. Spend the money on the Children, Tweens and Teens in your community instead.

FAQs on the ALSC/YALSA Reunification can be found here: https://www.ala.org/yalsa/alscyalsa-reunification-faqs

LOVE TO YOU