A practical guide to engaging young people in public libraries
Overview
The PLV Young Adult Playbook is a practical resource designed to support Victorian public library staff to better understand, welcome and engage young people aged 12–25.
Developed by Public Libraries Victoria in partnership with YLab, the Playbook brings together the voices of young people and the lived experience of library staff to provide actionable, flexible guidance for everyday practice.
Rather than prescribing a single approach, the Playbook offers tools, insights and examples that can be adapted to different communities, branches and service contexts.
Why this work matters
Libraries are more than places to borrow books. They are spaces for connection, learning and belonging. For many young people, libraries are one of the few free, accessible public spaces where they can study, spend time with friends, or simply exist without expectation.
At the same time, young people are navigating increasingly complex lives shaped by:
- Education and work pressures
- Cost-of-living challenges
- Mental health and wellbeing concerns
- Access to safe and inclusive public spaces
These factors influence how, and whether, young people engage with libraries.
The Playbook supports libraries to respond to these realities by building confidence, strengthening understanding, and offering practical ways to create welcoming and relevant experiences.
About the project
The Young Adult Playbook was developed through a collaborative process between PLV and YLab, working closely with:
- Young people across Victoria, who shared their experiences, perspectives and ideas
- Library staff, who contributed reflections from frontline practice
- Project Working Group, representing metropolitan and regional library services
This approach ensured the Playbook reflects both lived experience and the operational realities of library services.
The project was supported by the Victorian Government, reinforcing a shared commitment to improving outcomes for young people through accessible, community-based services.
What the Playbook includes
The Playbook is designed to be practical and easy to use, offering:
- Insights into young people’s experiences and what shapes their engagement with libraries
- Practical guidance for building trust, creating welcoming spaces, and tailoring services
- Program ideas and adaptable examples drawn from Victorian libraries
- Simple planning tools and templates to support program development and delivery
- Conversation tips and engagement frameworks for everyday interactions
- A Youth Services Navigator to support appropriate referrals when needed
At its core, the message is simple:
When young people feel welcome, they return. When they feel trusted, they participate. When they feel seen, they belong.
Who it’s for
The Young Adult Playbook is designed for:
- Library staff working with young people
- Branch and service managers
- Community engagement and programming teams
- Anyone looking to strengthen youth engagement in public library settings
Get in touch
For more information about the Young Adult Playbook or youth engagement work at PLV:
admin@plv.org.au
Access the Playbook
Download the PLV Young Adult Playbook