Management in public libraries can be a deeply rewarding experience, but it can also be a deeply confusing experience, particularly for those who are just starting out. Often times, librarians are pulled into management because they have excelled at service positions in the field and moving upward feels like the natural next step. But what many learn once they’re in a management position is that their service experience did not fully prepare them to tackle the budgeting, scheduling, time management, organization, communication, or navigation of 360 degree interpersonal relationships that comes along with the job.
Despite best intentions, upper management may not have the resources, ability, or experience to impart the area knowledge needed to ensure their new Youth and Teen managers receive the support they need in order to feel prepared for success. That’s where Shhh Yeah aims to step in. While a website will never take the place of a living, breathing mentor, it does aim to be a starting place for those looking for more information and ideas on Youth and Teen Services best practices.
Shhh Yeah is a resource for new managers who wish to learn the basics of successfully managing a department as well as for leaders who wish to learn the concept of leading with intention.
This is intended to be a tool for whomever finds value in it but much of the content will be filtered through a Children’s and Teen Services lens. You may notice the acronym MCATS floating around; that stands for Managers of Children’s and Teen Services.
Additionally, while we will always strive to learn and grow, it should be stressed that we will inevitably make mistakes as we share our own experiences and knowledge. When we do that, please let us know! You can send an email to info@shhhyeah.com. We will do the research about how to do and be better; it’s a promise.
WHO IS SHHH YEAH? MEET THE TEAM – JUST ME (FOR NOW)!
Alea Perez
Alea has been a Youth Services manager in the Chicago suburbs since June 2015. She aims to help children, teens, and their caregivers discover the many services libraries provide. Alea is dedicated to advocacy for youth services management, graphic novels for youth and teens, and equity and inclusion in the field at large.
To learn more about how you might join the team, please email info@shhhyeah.com.
INTERESTED IN SUBMITTING A TITLE FOR REVIEW?
The Shhh Yeah team is interested in titles for children and teens, particularly those by or featuring BIPOC individuals. Stories by or about queer, neurodivergent, and/or disabled individuals are also welcome but are, notably, an area of less familiarity. At this time, we are not reviewing self-published titles.
To find out more about having your title reviewed, please email reviews@shhhyeah.com.