Being a young adult is difficult. They are dealing with adult issues, like time management, how to cope in social situations, and sexuality, but with little prior knowledge and a less developed sense of self. While most public libraries have resources that deal with these issues, these resources are often either geared toward a younger reader and are placed in the children's section of the library or they speak above the young adult's ability and are located in the adult section. Therefore, it is necessary for teens to have a neutral space of their own to deal with these issues, somewhere they can feel safe asking their questions. This public library is striving to make itself one of those spaces.

Our new life skills non-fiction section of the library will include texts, magazines, CDs, DVDs, pamphlets, and internet resources dealing with issues concerning the body and mind. This includes sex education - dating, sexual orientation, abuse, getting to know your body; physical fitness - diet and exercise; coping with stress - due to time management, bullying, and other teen sensitive issues; and spirituality - exploring different religions and helping young adults to make good moral and ethical choices. Some texts will be duplicated from the adult section, but it is important that the young adults be able to recognize one area for their life skills needs, rather than sending them all over the library in search of answers. Initially, magazines will be purchased from a wholesale retailer to help determine user interest. There will also be a bank of computers for the young adult community's use, set up with links to online resources like www.teensource.org. One librarian and two assistants will be dedicated to this section.

The make up of the collection will be decided by a committee, which will include the young adult library staff, branch manager, several young adult patrons, local middle and high school teachers and counselors, and medical professionals. They will meet once a week until the collection is set, then every other month to discuss changes in needs.

Chelton, Mary K. "Perspectives on Practice: Young Adult Collections Are More Than Just Young Adult Literature." Young Adult Library Services 4.2 (Winter 2006): 10-11.

—. "Perspectives on YA Practice." Young Adult Library Services 3.4 (Summer 2005): 4-11.

Smith, Karen M. "The Power of Information: Creating a YA Nonfiction Collection." Young Adult Library Services 5.1 (Fall 2006): 28-30.