Engaging Teens Through Passive Programming

Most librarians are familiar with the challenges of reaching teens through programming; they have busy school schedules, may forget about programs, and many tend to be introverted.  The Programming Librarian recently posted an intriguing article, Reaching Teens Subversively Through Passive Programming, by Kelly Jensen and Jackie Parker.  In the article, the authors discuss the idea of planting “subversive” or “passive” programming for teens to discover as they use the library.  Some examples of passive programming include book displays that highlight books for fans of a popular television show accompanied by word searches, puzzles, or trivia about the show; QR code scavenger hunts; origami or any small craft project that can be left on a table and doesn’t need instruction.  Passive programming requires very little time or money while engaging teens in a unique experience each time they visit the library.  Check out this article and much more at the Programming Librarian.