How Gen Z use and don't use public libraries: New data and analysis
A new survey shows big increases in use and trust of librarian recommendation. How do Gen Z use public libraries? Learn why libraries fit into Gen Z book discovery behaviors, and what prompts Gen Z to identify as readers—or not.
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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Date
22 September 2026
Time
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Eastern Daylight Time, North America [UTC -4]

Webinar presenter Kathi Inman Berens
Webinar presenter Rachel Noorda
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