Young Adult Books- The PES library services a wide range of ages and
interests, it’s important to understand that we also offer a wide range of
materials which cover various subjects. Some of these materials would not be
in a K-6 elementary school library. There have been some
questions about what a “young adult” book really is and why there is a
distinction. Hopefully, this will clarify what “YA” means.
What is a YA book? What does young adult really mean?
A book with a “YA” sticker is classified as “young adult.” YA indicates that
the book is intended for teens specifically 7th grade and up. YA books may
have a higher reading level, but they are coded as YA mostly because of
content. YA books often deal with complex social issues, controversial
themes, and intense emotions. Content may include some level of violence,
sexuality, discussion of drugs or alcohol abuse, family problems, relationship
issues and so on. These books are often high quality and meant to assist teens
navigate complex social issues in their own lives or raise awareness of an
issue. Not all YA books are issue oriented; many are quality
literature with mature themes.
YA materials that are purchased for our collection are professionally reviewed
by at least two reliable sources. This may include School Library Journal,
Horn Book, and Booklist to name a few. We strive to purchase books that have
strong student appeal and may support school-wide curriculum topics. We make
every effort in ensure that YA materials are appropriate for PES students, but
since every book and family value system is different, parental judgment is
important for individual students. If your child checks out material you are
not comfortable with, the best thing to do is talk with him/her about it.
Can younger students check out YA materials?
Younger students often have an interest in certain young adult materials. PES
library policy says that students who are not in 7th grade must
have written permission from a parent before s/he will be allowed to check out
YA materials. As a parent, there are several options; you can write a blanket
note giving your permission for your child to check out all YA materials or
you may give permission for a specific material. It is also important to note
that certain books about human reproduction and sexuality are marked YA , so
when fourth graders begin that discussion in health, they may become
interested in checking those books out specifically. Permission may be given
for those materials only if desired.
If you have any questions about library materials or would like to look at
them with your child before giving permission for him/her to check that
material out, please feel free to come in and talk to us. Remember students in
7th & 8th do not need permission to check these
materials out, as they would typically be found in a Junior High library.