In 2025, four library workers teamed up as part of the State Library of Ohio’s ILEAD program to develop the Young Adult Library Ambassadors program.
A common concern for library staff is a decrease in use and
visitation amongst teens and young adults around ages 15-21. As library employees, we know that there are many ways that teens and young adults can benefit from visiting and using the library. We also know that the best way to get teenagers to believe in something is to hear it from their peers. Our goal was to develop a program that gives teens and young adults an accessible and fun way to connect with their library; thus, the Young Adult Library Ambassador program was born.
Teens and young adults can partner with their public or school library to be a Young Adult Library Ambassador by developing a program, project, or idea that helps connect their peers to the library. Whether that be a fun program held in the library or a project that takes their love of the library out into the community, Young Adult Library Ambassadors can implement their idea and earn a certificate of achievement that will look great on any college application or resume, as well as achieving growth in leadership skills, project planning, and networking.
By registering to be a Young Adult Library Ambassador, the ambassador will receive a swag box that will help market their role as an ambassador at any programs, in the community, and on social media. Social media graphics and print/digital marketing materials are also available. Once they complete their project, they can submit their final report to the organization to receive their certificate of achievement. We also encourage our partner libraries to find ways to shout out their ambassadors with social media, in-house photos, and more.
Whether you’re looking for a resume booster, an addition to college applications or just looking to engage with your local library, our goal is to empower participants to become leaders and advocates for their local library, while fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility within the library community.
Register to be a Young Adult Library Ambassador today!
Young Adult Library Ambassadors 