FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 4, 2025
Contact
Tim Pratt
timothy.pratt@maryland.gov
443-695-6772
Maryland Libraries Focus on Emerging Adults
The Maryland State Library Agency held a summit this week for library staff to best serve customers from 18 to 29 years old
(BALTIMORE) — Library staff from across the state gathered this week for the inaugural Maryland Emerging Adults Summit - a daylong event that focused on attracting, retaining and supporting customers as they navigate early adulthood. The term “Emerging Adults” was coined by Dr. Jeffrey Arnett, who attended and spoke at the summit, to describe 18- to 29-year-olds. This demographic faces a variety of challenges that libraries are uniquely positioned to address, including employment, financial literacy, physical and mental health, and social isolation.
“Maryland libraries work hard to serve all customers, regardless of age, and it’s important for us to learn how we can serve them most effectively - particularly during that pivotal time when they are 18 to 29 years old,” said Morgan Lehr Miller, Maryland State Librarian. “I’m thrilled to see the library community come together to share information about what works, what doesn’t and how they can provide Emerging Adults with the services, knowledge and resources they need.”
More than 70 people attended the summit, which was organized by the Maryland State Library Agency and partners. It was held at the Elkridge Branch of the Howard County Library System. Howard County Executive Calvin Ball, Maryland Office of Opioid Response Special Secretary Emily Keller and Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation Partnerships and Recruitment Manager Patrick Sawyer were among the event speakers.
While some in attendance were library system directors and chief operating officers, the event also attracted dozens of librarians, library associates and other staff. Many shared information on some of the successful Emerging Adult programs and initiatives they have organized, including book clubs, free classes and game nights. A dozen businesses and nonprofit organizations also were represented and provided valuable information and insights throughout the day.
"Emerging Adults are standing at one of life’s most critical crossroads, yet too many must do so without the resources and community support they need to thrive," said Tonya Aikens, President and CEO of Howard County Library System. "They are expected to launch careers, manage finances, navigate healthcare, and build meaningful relationships, all while facing rising costs, shifting job markets and an overwhelming digital landscape."
These challenges directly impact the strength of our communities, workforce and shared economic future, Aikens added. Public libraries are “engines of opportunity” that provide free access to job training, financial literacy classes, mental health resources, technology and social connections. They also create safe spaces for young adults to build the skills and confidence they need to navigate adulthood successfully, she said.
"Today was a remarkable day for librarians to come together at the first Maryland Emerging Adults Summit to hear about the unique needs of Emerging Adults, ages 18-25, and how libraries can provide a positive pathway for this age group as they emerge into adulthood," said Stephanie Wiant, Chair of the Maryland Library Association’s Emerging Adults Interest Group. "The energy and excitement in the room imaging programs, resources, and support for EAs was palpable. I am so excited to continue to advocate for EAs in libraries and co-create with fellow librarians across the state to foster intentional programming for the development of EA wellbeing and civic duty to help them discover their joy."
The Maryland State Library Agency and summit partners will use what was learned at the event to inform future efforts in support of Maryland libraries as they serve the Emerging Adult community.
This release has been edited since its original publication.
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