Ayan Adem is a Teen Services Librarian at the Seattle Public Library who focuses her energy on serving patrons equitably both inside and outside of library walls. She is dedicated to connecting youth in her community with real life learning and skill development opportunities that center youth voices. As a first generation Somali American, Ayan dedicates her work at the library around listening, lifting and partnering with communities of color to break down barriers, increase access, ownership, and joy at the library. Ayan has facilitated Teen Service Learning Groups that have designed and presented programs for All City Tutors on “Perspectives on African Cultures” as well as a program for local teens and community members called ”Teens Take a Stand: Know Your Rights.”