How is the teen library scene in real life? Is it loud and controversial like teens themselves?
Yes, sometimes! In the public library, I occasionally had complaints about teens or groups of teens. I always tried to judge teens by the same criteria I would apply to adults. For instance, if a group of teens is gathered around a computer to look at MySpace, and talking quietly, and nearby an adult is yelling into her cell phone, why is the patron complaining only about the teens? Often there is a double standard, and people are suspicious of teenagers or judge them on their age and appearance, not their actual behavior. On the other hand, if the teens are really being disruptive, then they need to be reminded about appropriate behavior. Busy public libraries, at least in urban settings, aren’t the silent places they perhaps used to be. I don’t think most librarians expect absolute quiet, and we aren’t going around shushing all the time. Public libraries are full of kids and teens and families, some there to read, others to socialize, attend programs, use the computer, get homework h
