Professors Kathi Inman Berens and Rachel Noorda, media researchers at Portland State University, present 2025 data and insights about how Gen Z use libraries. The researchers contextualize their longitudinal survey data with ethnographic research and conversations with many librarians. What are some successful strategies libraries use to reach and serve Gen Z? What paradoxes characterize Gen Z’s media identities and behaviors? Participants will leave with tips on how to strengthen Gen Z’s connection to libraries, how to understand Gen Z, and how promote services that resonate with younger audiences.

Presented by:

• Professor Kathi Inman Berens, Portland State University 
• Professor Rachel Noorda, Portland State University

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• View webinar recording (Coming Soon)

Webinar attachments

• View chat (xls) (Coming soon)

Related resources and links

• Berens' and Noorda's new book, How Gen Z Discover and Consume Books
• 1000-word summary of the book
• Book Riot podcast episode where Noorda and Berens discuss the book's findings - library-specific information around 36 minute mark
• What the panic over Gen Z’s reading habits gets wrong - article in The Conversation's daily newsletter