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1. What is a young adult?

For library services, we define a young adult as someone who is in middle school or high school. You might see us use the term "teen" interchangeably with "young adult” or “YA.”

2. What services do you offer to young adults?

We have a teen space that contains books as well as a selection of graphic novels, manga, audiobook Playaways, and non-fiction titles appropriate for a YA audience. Keep in mind that the rest of the library has a lot to offer young adult patrons as well! Our juvenile and adult collections, online databases, and inter-library loan (ILL) services, are all available and useful to teens. If you are looking for YA audiobooks on CD, you can find them shelved with the Adult audiobooks.

There are also work spaces, comfy chairs, and computers specifically for teen use.

We are proud to offer programs just for teens, so they can connect with each other, share their interests, and unwind from all the stresses of everyday life. See a complete list of clubs and events.

3. Who are the teen services librarians?

All of the librarians at the Reuben Hoar Library can assist young adults with their needs, but Megan is generally responsible for matters regarding the teen space and its users. James Taber also assists with teen services and is an experienced youth services librarian. They are also enthusiastic readers of YA books and love to give recommendations or just chat about what they've been reading recently.

4. I'm a young adult, but I would like to read adult books. Is that okay?

Absolutely! Our YA books are chosen to appeal to as many middle- and high-schoolers as possible, but many readers find that their interests extend beyond the books on the YA shelves. Any time you need help finding a book that suits your needs, ask one of the librarians. Helping you find the perfect book is our favorite thing to do!

5. I'm an adult, but I would like to read YA books. Is that okay?

Lots of adults enjoy YA literature. These books tend to focus internally on character development, paying more attention to the turmoil and struggle inherent in the process of growing up rather than external adventures. YA books are often more straightforward in their presentation, which can be a relaxing change of pace for some.

The YA collection is open to everyone to browse and check out, but the computers, chairs, and games in the YA room are intended for tweens and teens only.

6. What are some popular YA books?

You can view the New York Times' young adult best sellers. It's perhaps the best source of staying up to date on what's trending in the market, but sometimes there's no accounting for taste.