Adults Just Wanna Have Fun: Programs for Emerging Adults

Millenials just want to have fun, but do they do so at their local public library? Barbakoff (adult services manager, Kitsap Regional Lib., WA; LJ reviewer) asserts that "emerging" or "new" adults, those in their twenties and early thirties, are a demographic which is underserved by public libraries. She explains that by developing dynamic programming that has relevance for emerging adults, libraries have an opportunity to develop a lifelong relationship with them. Barbakoff believes that activities that combine play and learning are the best type of services for this population. Besides outlining who emerging adults are and how to accommodate them, the author provides examples of hands-on, interactive, and group projects, such as making homemade spa products and participating in a library murder mystery. Barbakoff explains how to do each activity, the time and cost involved, and what kind of community need it fulfills.