Local Community Agencies

 

I enjoyed examining the websites of three libraries to find out what types of services and programming they are offering to senior citizens.

The first library website that I examined was from Jackson District Library, a public library system in Jackson County Michigan. After clicking on the Events tab, I was pleasantly surprised at both the variety and number of programs that were either directly targeting senior citizens or would be senior citizen friendly. Here are a few of the programs offered:

·         Senior Yoga: offered every Wednesday morning

·         Garden Club Meetings: offered monthly

·         Beading: craft making program

·         Scrapbooking: craft making program

·         Sit n Stitch: sewing program

·         Classic Movie Thursday: a classic movie is shown followed by discussion

·         Introduction to Social Networking: computer class

·         Introduction to Word Processing: computer class

·         Book Clubs: three clubs for adults are offered

The second library website that I examined was from Lenawee County Library, a public library serving Lenawee County Michigan. After clicking on “Programs” I was taken to a listing of a variety of programs for all ages. Many of these programs could appeal to senior citizens, but none of them were designated exclusively for seniors. Here are some of the programs offered:

·         Computer Instruction Courses: a wide variety ranging from basic computing to specific programs

·         Digital Camera Courses

·         Book Clubs

Although the offerings at LCL are not extremely plentiful, they do offer various services on a mobile Bookmobile. The Bookmobile visits various locations throughout the county including many nursing homes and senior living communities.

The third library website that I examined was from Adrian Public Library, a public library in Adrian, Michigan. After clicking the link for “Adult” I was taken to a listing of programming options for adults which would include Senior Citizens. Here are some of the programs offered:

·         Book Clubs

·         Computer Instruction Courses

·         Art Exhibits

Residents of Lenawee County are lucky enough to be able to take advantage of the many offerings that the Lenawee County Senior Centers offer. With seven locations throughout Lenawee County, these centers provide various fun activities and meals for seniors on a daily or weekly basis. These centers also serve as centers of socialization for many senior citizens. Their website (lenaweeseniors.org) is easy to maneuver and includes a printable menu as well. Some of the offerings include:

·         Bingo

·         Line Dancing

·         Card Playing

·         Music

·         Painting

·         Sing-A-Longs

·         Tax Assistance

·         Trips

Between the various libraries in the area and the senior centers, there are opportunities for senior members of the community to engage in fun filled activities. It is unfortunate that area libraries do not have links to more community resources like the senior center on their website.

After examining various local library websites, I do believe that there is a need for greater collaboration between community agencies that serve senior citizens and local libraries. Collaboration between libraries and community agencies would provide seniors with an increased opportunity to engage in activities, and would prevent duplication of services between organizations. Also by utilizing the resources of each organization, all parties could benefit.