I think people are always going to relate better to people closer to their own age group, and you do need to have some passing awareness of youth culture if you’re going to interact with them. I remember some advice a youth worker friend gave me. Polo shirts/collared button up shirts are an instant cred ruiner if you’re working with teens, and if you bring some Eminem to play in the background, you’re an instant hit (this was in the early 2000s tho, so maybe don’t bring the Eminem, or find out the 2015 equivelant…). Having said that, I have observed younger people getting on really well with older librarians, and vice versa. I think it comes down to attitude and treating people with respect. Showing an interest in what they are looking for and giving the person in front of you as much attention as you would give anyone else. Goes along way to fostering respect from ALL age groups.
To read more of my musings on young people in libraries, go here – http://2015.informationprograms.info/forums/topic/childrens-and-teens-activities/