Strategic Collection Development for Middle Schoolers
Middle school is a time of “inbetween-ness,” and the transition from childhood to adolescence can be tumultuous for even the most well-adjusted kid. The same can be true of middle schoolers in the library, unsure of where they fit in the dichotomous world of children’s and teen services. However, intentional collection development practices can help middle schoolers feel confident finding their materials and provide a sense of belonging in the library. In this session we will review the criteria and best practices Cranston Public Library uses when collecting for middle schoolers as well as discuss collection resources, display ideas, and readers advisory tools.
Presenter:
Alyssa Taft is the teen librarian at Cranston Public Library in Cranston, Rhode Island, and a former school library media specialist. She completed her MLIS at the University of Rhode Island and her professional interests include youth civic engagement, collection development, and partnerships between schools and public libraries.
Recording and Slides:
This program is being recorded and will be made available on the YouTube. A link to the slides will be available in the YouTube video description.
Who Should Come?
Perfect for anyone working with Middle Schoolers in collection development. This may include Children’s staff and YA Staff.
Accessibility
This webinar will be captioned. If you require another access service to participate fully, please use the Accommodation Request Form at least 14 days prior to the event.
Related LibGuide: Children's and YA Services by Kymberlee Powe
- Date:
- Thursday, March 5, 2026
- Time:
- 11:00am - 12:30pm
- Categories:
- DLD Online Webinar
Event Accessibility for Guests with Disabilities
We want to provide what you need to participate!
If you require access services to participate fully, please use the Accommodation Request Form at least 7 days prior to the event.
If you have any questions about accessibility, please contact Gail Hurley at gail.hurley@ct.gov or (860) 704-2223.
You can also see our Library and Accessibility LibGuide for more information.
Registration Eligibility
To register for a DLD workshop or webinar, you must be one of the following:
- current library staff member
- undergraduate or graduate library student
- Friend or Board Member/Trustee*
- retired or unemployed library staff
Please contact Gail Hurley at gail.hurley@ct.gov or (860) 704-2223 with registration questions.
*Unless otherwise specified that a Friend or Board Member/Trustee is not eligible for a training or workshop.
Note: paid consultants are not eligible to attend DLD workshops or webinars.
Cancellation Policy
If you cannot attend a workshop you have registered for, please remember to cancel at least 3 days in advance so we can give your spot to someone else. You can cancel via the link in your confirmation email, or by contacting Gail Hurley gail.hurley@ct.gov | (860) 704-2222.
Those who miss (without cancelling) 3 events within a 6-month period will be placed on the waiting list when registering for future events. Be sure to sign in when you arrive for any workshop.
Inclement Weather Policy
For all in-person workshops offered by the CT State Library, Division of Library Development:
If the public schools in the town where the workshop is to be held close due to weather, the workshop will be canceled. If the schools have a delay, the workshop will go on as scheduled.
For the most up-to-date information, call us at 860-704-2200.
Continuing Education workshops and the professional development collection are funded in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered by the Connecticut State Library.