As an educator who recognizes the critical role of librarians and the too few conversations among literacy researchers and librarians, in this article the author presents a unifying conception of literacy, a conception to buttress collaborative efforts to support all students. The first section uses the experiences of David (pseudonym), a…

Addresses how the resources of public libraries and youth-serving organizations can work together to support young people and expand their opportunities. Summarizes ways librarians are developing effective strategies to engage youth who formerly felt alienated from public libraries and describes ways public libraries are connecting with community…

As librarians provide access to informational resources, recreational excursions, cultural explorations, and educational support, they build assets which are critical for young people's successful growth. Identifies eight main categories of developmental assets--support; empowerment; boundaries and expectations; constructive use of time;…