Public libraries have long been pillars of community learning and engagement. By partnering with teens through internship and volunteer opportunities, libraries can not only empower young people but also cultivate future leaders, provide hands-on experience, and foster a deeper connection with their communities.

This webinar will explore how public libraries can leverage teen internships and volunteer programs to enhance leadership skills, increase civic engagement, and provide meaningful career exploration opportunities for youth. In addition, this could create library ambassadors, lead to enhanced services, and creative initiatives.  

Attendees will:

• Learn about the benefits of creating internship programs and volunteer opportunities for teens within public libraries
• Understand how to design and implement programs that focus on developing leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills in teens
• Explore strategies for recruiting and retaining teen volunteers
• Discover best practices for mentoring and supporting teens in these roles
• Gain insights from successful case studies

Who will benefit from this program:

• Youth Services Supporters
• Library Administrators
• Anyone interested in developing teen leadership and engagement in public libraries

Tiffany Duck ~ Biography

Tiffany Duck is a consultant and owner of LitDext LLC, a literacy and information services company. She has thirteen years of experience as a public library manager in various types of library systems. As an Executive Team member, she built long-lasting relationships with community ambassadors and partners, and helped to develop spaces that reflected community needs. She facilitated many innovative and diverse initiatives that expanded the libraries’ reach into the community. Tiffany is an adjunct instructor in the Library and Information Science programs at UNCG and the University of Alabama.

David Duck ~ Biography

Born in the East End Community of Newport News, VA David Duck is dedicated to serving youth and families. With a B.A. from the University of Virginia, and an M.S. from Frostburg State University (concentrating in Youth Development and Organizational Management), David shares his passion for engaging families through quality programming, evidence-based practices, and an overall understanding and connection to youth/family needs. David's diverse experience in community development and the arts has allowed him to facilitate trainings, programs, and educational opportunities to local government agencies, libraries, community-based organizations, the faith community and the general public sector (all ages).

Starting his career in Newport News, David has lead youth development and community engagement efforts (with focuses on outreach, mentoring, tutoring, leadership, recreation, education, parenting, wraparound case management, neighborhood development and volunteerism) in Norfolk, Chester/Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, and Hanover before returning home to Newport News.