Novare: Beyond Books – Fostering Positive Youth Development in Your Library

Libraries are essential spaces for learning, growth, and connection. This training empowers library professionals to utilize Positive Youth Development (PYD) by creating engaging programs and services that foster the social, emotional, and intellectual well-being of young people. Through interactive modules and real-world examples, you will learn how to: 📚 Apply Positive Youth Development principles to library services and interactions 💡 Build meaningful connections that support youth engagement and resilience 🎭 Develop programs and activities that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and leadership 📖 Utilize library resources and spaces to create a welcoming and supportive environment With practical strategies that can be implemented immediately, this course will help you enhance your library’s role in supporting youth as they grow, learn, and thrive. This course is an essential tool for staff working with tweens and teens within the library. Presenter: Kristen Bardes Kristen C. Bardes has devoted her life to working with underserved populations. As an Education Advocate for foster care and at-risk teens, Kristen has a deep understanding of their behaviors and how to communicate best with the teen population and would like to share this information with others who may not feel comfortable working with teens. Kristen and her daughter, Scout, live in Tampa, FL, where they love doing anything outside.