Youth Services Learning Pathway

This badge is issued by the Massachusetts Library System and reflects competencies defined and validated through MLS's statewide needs assessment, subject-matter review, instructional design standards, and program evaluation processes. This badge recognizes demonstrated proficiency across six competency areas essential to youth services in libraries. Competencies Youth Development and Behavior: Applies knowledge of youth development and behavior to create supportive, engaging, and inclusive library experiences for youth. Literacy Development: Applies evidence-based knowledge of literacy development to programs and services for youth and caregivers. Building and Recommending Diverse Collections: Builds and promotes youth collections that reflect global diversity and local community needs through regular review and improvement. Evaluation of Programs and Services: Evaluates library programs and services using diverse data collection methods to gather insights, make improvements, and show impact. Marketing in Libraries: Applies marketing principles in planning and promoting library programs and services. Caregivers and Community (elective): Builds collaborative, inclusive, and responsive relationships with families, caregivers, and community organizations. or Digital Literacy (elective): Engages youth with technology to support learning, creativity, and responsible digital participation. Each course has its own badge with detailed learning outcomes.