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Collections, Programs and Services
Workshop
Shannon Lake
Community Engagement and Marketing Contractor
Brannon, LLC
Kate Aubin
Community Partnerships & Engagement Coordinator
Providence Public Library
Providence Public Library (PPL) connected with local youth centers to implement a library-based summer learning and earning program. Working with an array of community partners proved to be a winning combination for educating a diverse group of youth preparing for employment. This workshop will cover how to design and implement a robust partner program for youth. Attendees will walk away with a clear understanding of why and how libraries can play a role in preparing youth for post-secondary life.
Participants in My City, My Place are typically enrolled in a Providence high school. According to the Rhode Island Department of Education, the Providence Public School District has a diverse group of high school students, 91% of youth in this age group are considered minorities; 17% African American, 5% Asian, 64% Hispanic, 4% Multiethnic, 1% Native American, 9% White. Additional data states that 86% of this population receive subsidized lunch, 25% receive ESL/bilingual educational services, and 15% receive special education services.
In the summer of 2017, PPL partnered with state youth centers to serve as a work placement location for 40 youth between the ages of 14-24. PPL expanded their successful Teen Squad: My City, My Place program to become a summer work experience. Teen Squad: My City, My Place integrates history, technology, and career skill development for the hospitality and tourism industry. The program provides youth with connected learning opportunities allowing them to contribute to the promotion of their city as a destination for tourists while learning more about their community.
Throughout the program, youth learned photo and video editing skills, beginner and advanced PowerPoint skills, how to receive and implement feedback, and overall presentation skills. Youth interacted with tourism/hospitality professionals, learned about various career paths, and how to be successful within the industry as potential employees. Youth demonstrated their skills during a culminating presentation.
This workshop covers how to: work with partners effectively, leverage resources to support the work of library staff and partners, replicate teen workforce development library programs, and advocate for libraries to be involved in teen workforce development initiatives.