The increasing number of computer software programs available at public libraries are of particular interest to school children. Since kids generally are more interested and at ease with computers than their parents, computers are often found in the children's section as well as the adult department. Many public libraries offer training courses for children in using different software or educational programs. For Teenagers Teenagers, of course, are more independent than younger kids, so parents will have a somewhat different role when it comes to helping them use the library and encouraging them to read for recreation. There is no clearcut category of books for teenagers or young adults, although there are many novels written especially for teenagers, usually published in paperback.
Teens generally make selections, especially for school assignments, from the adult collection.
Thus, the range of choice is broad. In addition to books and magazines, many libraries offer compact discs as well as audio- and videocassettes free on loan. A number of public libraries have developed special programs for teens to help them as they make the transition into adulthood. For instance, at some libraries there are teenage advisory boards to ensure that programs and materials for youth actually meet their needs. Some libraries publish book reviews written by their teenage patrons or help young people in the community to publish their own newsletters or magazines.