An understanding of youth development as it relates to library services is essential for a youth services professional. A working knowledge in library science, youth services competencies, education standards, and technology is important in providing excellent and equitable library services to youth, families, and caregivers. Professional development continues at every stage in every library career path.
A youth services professional:
Keeps current with trends, issues, and research in librarianship, youth development, emerging technologies, education, and allied fields through the following:
Serves entire community with understanding and respect for equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging, including but not limited to race; ethnicity; culture; socioeconomic status; family structure; LGBTQIA+; youth with visual, physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities; and youth in crisis.
Demonstrates knowledge of the Pennsylvania Standards for Early Learning and the Pennsylvania Academic Standards. Educates families in understanding the purpose of standards and how library programs help youth achieve them.
Develops relationships with area school librarians, media specialists, teachers, and early childhood educators.
Develops relationships with organizations that serve youth in the community.
Considers membership and seeks opportunities in local, state, and national library, youth, family-related, and literacy organizations.
Participates in the mentoring process, both as mentee and mentor.
Sets the example for library staff on best practices in interacting with youth, families, and caregivers.
Presents the importance of youth services in the public library to library board, elected officials, funders, community groups, and the public.
Adheres to the American Library Association Code of Ethics, Library Bill of Rights, Freedom to Read, and library policies and procedures.