In 1998-99, in Tucson's largest school district alone, there are more than 10,000 students with limited proficiency in English. Literacy is vital to success in the technology-saturated workplace. For many teens, there is limited access to computers and computer classes, at a time when 60 percent of all new jobs require computer skills. After looking at the current state of Tucson and Pima County, an assessment was made of TPPL's current capacities as an organization. Staff from the City of Tucson's program evaluation unit assisted the Steering Committee in this assessment.
Neighborhoods are the focus within the City of Tucson.
The library has a core group of young adult librarians who are committed advocates for youth. The library's present collections of books and information resources are inadequate to meet the current and future needs of youth. The needs exceed the library's financial resources. The Tucson-Pima Public Library has a strong history of innovative, collaborative, and creative services for youth. Teens need positive opportunities to gain job readiness skills.