Library Services to an Aging Population

21 Ideas for the 21st Century

Here are 21 programming ideas suitable for Senior patrons.

• Host a class on internet resources. Class ideas could include:
  • Basic web searching
  • Genealogy on the internet
  • How to avoid internet "scams"
  • Financial information on the web
  • Become a Secret Shopper
    
    
• Offer medical programming done by medical professionals.
• Sponsor an intergenerational community history project.
• Provide Senior Adult "storytimes" at senior centers, nursing homes, retirement commuities, etc.
• Initiate a quilting program -- create a historical/commemorative quilt.
• Sponsor an intergenerational photo contest.
• Offer programs on Burma Shave signs, local trivia, music boxes, WWII.
• Start an oral history project.
• Have a musical program: outdoor band concert, big band music, local school group.
• Contact someone to start a discussion group for seniors or caregivers.
• Offer the library as a place for support groups to meet.
• Sponsor a home safety program.
• Provide programs on Social Security, Medicare, taxes.
• Host a Mad Hatter's Tea.
• Offer a consumers series.
• Have a show of wedding fashions from the 30s and 40s.
• Start a recipe exchange.
• Sponsor a "sock hop" with live music or a DJ and a dance instructor.
• Provide library space for displays of crafts and hobbies, and for recreational activities.
• Host tax counseling services for seniors. -- Call the IRS or AARP to set it up.
• Establish Senior Day in your community.