"...many people don't feel that [young adult, new adult, and graphic novels] are legitimate literary choices and libraries shouldn't be spending money on them or promoting them to adults." This argument does not hold up well when considered carefully. Librarians involved with collection development regularly purchase these "formats" because they circulate well, are extremely popular, and in many cases, open an avenue for the reluctant reader to engage with the library and its resources. To make the argument that these formats are "unworthy" is to inadvertently discriminate against an important (and large) group of readers, and discrimination at any level is contrary to the very essence of a public library's purpose, mission, and values. It's the responsibility of the public library to align its collections with the reading interests of the community, not to let "literary biases" dictate collections. Young adult, new adult, and graphic novels circulate well in many communities. This seems to justify the expenditures for these collections. Another point to consider when determining the worthiness of these formats is whether or not the presence of these collections aligns with the library's collection policies, mission statements, and goals. If so, there should be no question that they should be purchased and promoted for all.
I know many adults that read young adult fiction. In fact, they really enjoy it! I am not as familiar with the demographic at my library who read "new adult" fiction (in fact, I didn't even know that was a genre until now!). Assuming there is adult interest in these formats, librarians should do what they can to promote this literature to the adults who want to read it (in the same way we promote horror and romance, two genres not always embraced by "literary" society). One way we can do this is through passive RA. Include a few young adult genre booklists in the same display where the traditional "adult" booklists are located. Create a display of "Young Adult Books that Appeal to Adults" (I've done the reverse at my library - "Adult Books for Teens"). Invite adults to help develop the graphic novel collection by asking them (either passively or directly) about their favorite graphic novels. Book clubs for adults which include these formats are also a good way to promote and encourage them among adults.
As long as these new formats are being checked out, align with libraries' goals and missions (i.e. meet community needs), foster increased engagement with the library and its resources by community members, then these formats should not only be included but also promoted across all adult age demographics.
Great reminder that libraries purchase materials in alignment with readers interests! Everybody should be able to read what they want to read, without fear of judgement. One would think that the Harry Potter obsession across age groups would have put an end to this type of viewpoint.
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