The ‘Net Generation

ABSTRACT Academic librarians detect a change in traditional-aged college students over the last one or two decades. Characteristics of students belonging to Generations X and Y suggest a postmodern condition exists that influences these library users. Understanding the postmodern mind-set can help academic public services librarians confront these changes and more effectively assist college students. Characteristics of college students are examined and solutions to dealing with challenges they present are offered. Academic libraries can adjust the methods they use to better serve this population.