Mission & Vision

Mission

To empower young people ages 15–21 to become passionate advocates for their libraries by amplifying the value, relevance, and impact of libraries in their communities and online. Through peer-led engagement, creative outreach, and leadership development, the Young Adult Library Ambassadors program connects youth to the transformative potential of library resources, fostering a lifelong relationship with libraries of all types.

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Vision

We envision a future where teens and young adults are inspired and empowered to lead their peers in discovering the library as a space for learning, creativity, and community connection.

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Values

At the heart of RENEW is Youth Empowerment: We believe in the power of young people to lead, influence, and inspire their peers. Ambassadors are not only participants—they are leaders shaping the future of libraries and expanding what’s possible for youth in their communities.

R – Represent

We value the authentic voices of youth and are committed to ensuring they are heard, seen, and reflected in library spaces. Ambassadors represent their peers, their communities, and the evolving needs of young people, helping to shape services that resonate with real experiences.

E – Educate

We support lifelong learning by empowering youth to explore how libraries can meet their educational, personal, and professional needs. Ambassadors share knowledge and help others discover the library’s many resources, becoming influential educators among their peers.

N – Network

We foster community connection and meaningful relationships—among peers, with library staff, and within the broader community. Ambassadors build bridges, cultivating networks of collaboration, civic engagement, and leadership.

E – Explore

We encourage innovation and creativity through exploration of ideas, tools, and possibilities. Whether through storytelling, social media, or programming, ambassadors explore new ways to make libraries vibrant, relevant, and inspiring for today’s youth.

W – Welcome

We strive to create inclusive and equitable spaces where all youth feel respected, safe, and supported. Ambassadors lead with kindness and openness, ensuring their peers feel at home and see the library as a space that values who they are.