Mynah was “a library kid.”

Mynah grew up in libraries playing in children’s areas, flying through mystery series, and volunteering for Pre-K Fridays. Now an accomplished high school senior, she feels the library played a pivotal role in her success. “The library established my passion for reading, and beyond that, for learning.”

Mynah is a member of the Library Youth Advisory Committee (LYAC)—a group of teens who provide feedback and guidance to the library on how to best serve youth. The library was able to establish this committee thanks to support of library friends.

Along with her peers on the committee, Mynah has been given real world opportunities to influence library resources, spaces, and practices to make them more accessible and appealing to youth.

Throughout the year, the teens met with library staff, engaged in behind-the-scenes tours, and strengthened skills in leadership and civic engagement with the mentorship of the Brooklyn Bridge Alliance for Youth. 

Trainings and compensation for the teens are made possible by the generosity of library friends. This year, $400,000 was provided to Career Development opportunities at the library to empower the next generation.

This is Mynah’s second term on the committee. “This year,” she reports, “we’ve had more opportunities to take our turn and lead brainstorming and discussions.”

“We did a consensus building workshop where we all individually came up with 10-20 ideas, got into small groups and broke it down even further. We continued to do so until we had big overarching themes.”

In the end, the committee decided to collaborate with schools to spread the word about what young people can do at their library. “People my age don’t realize how much the library has to offer!” says Mynah.

This has been a rewarding experience for Mynah, and one filled with friendship.

“I am so glad to have met this group of people. I love hearing all their perspectives. What brings us all together is our love for the library, and our love for books.”

She’s not alone. Last year, 100% of participants said they’re learning knowledge and skills that help them participate on decision-making tables. They also unanimously felt that they learned how to use their voice and reach their leadership goals.

Mynah sees herself as a lifelong patron and library advocate. “The special place it’s held for me, that magic, I want it to continue. I want to bring my kids here someday,” she shares.

P.S. Searching for a great book? Mynah recommends On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong. “It’s so beautiful!”