Can you help us shape the way libraries deliver services for young people in Manchester?
We are looking for the views of young people in Manchester this spring term. Young people are crucial to the ongoing success of libraries and we want to know what brings them into our spaces, and what keeps them away.
From January to Easter half term we will be asking young people to think about their library experience, and let us know what their views via our youth consultation form. We will use this information to shape our Youth Friendly Library Standards, helping libraries to be safe and welcoming spaces for all.
How you can help.
If you work with, or just have young people aged 11-18 in your lives, you can help us reach as many as possible. We want young people who use libraries, and especially those who don’t, to give us their views. To help schools, parents and organisations get the best answers we have created this guidance.
Youth Consultation Guidance
- Look at the questions before asking the young person/people to answer them, what would you have said as a teen?
- If possible, be present whilst they are completing the form to support them if they are not sure.
- Encourage young people to be as specific as possible with their answers.
- Discuss their use of libraries to bring out their thoughts and feelings.
- Ask them to be as honest and constructive as they can – we want to use this information to make positive changes.
- If possible, use the digital version that can be found here https://forms.office.com/e/HdDpDQ7snf if this is not possible we can email a printed version to you. Please contact helen.beesley@manchester.gov.uk .
We are looking to collect answers from as many young people as possible. If you run a group and would like a visit to discuss libraries, reading for pleasure or to organise a visit to a library we would be happy to assist. Please contact helen.beesley@manchester.gov.uk
What’s next?
The consultation will close on the 30th April and we will share the results here in May. We will be answering young peoples burning questions about our libraries, and how the consultation has helped develop our understanding of what young people want from their library service.
Those completing the survey can enter the prize draw for the chance to win a £25.00 shopping voucher (under 18s must give the email of an adult to take part in the draw).