Public libraries are an incredible community resource funded by local councils across the country, and they’re free! If you’re a senior over 65 and you haven’t been to the library in ages, now is the time to plan a visit. No longer are they simply buildings housing books and staff who “shh!” their patrons – they’re now vibrant community hubs where people go to meet up, learn, and have fun. Visit your local library today and find out for yourself!
What’s So Great About Libraries?
While borrowing books is still a big part of visiting the library, there’s now so much more going on. Libraries provide a wide range of activities, social groups, programs and classes that promote literacy, social inclusion, and lifelong learning. You can visit your local library and learn anything from how to make a macrame plant holder to how to do simple coding on a tablet. You can meet up with other like-minded individuals and talk about your favourite author, your next overseas trip, or share recipes. These groups offer a lifeline to people who may not have any friends or family in the area or may just need a bit of extra support. They also provide a way for seniors to learn a new skill for free, or to listen to interesting people talk about a subject they are knowledgeable about. In short, libraries are more than just book depositories – they’re a way to keep both socially and mentally active.
What Sorts of Resources and Programs Are Available?
Reading Resources
Reading is still a big reason why most people visit the library, but it may look a little different to how it was a few decades ago. Now, libraries don’t just provide traditional print material like books, magazines, or newspapers. You can also borrow large print books, audio books, DVDs, CDs, and a range of digital material as well. You can access various databases and journals via the library’s website, check out digitised historical records of your local area, or utilise the library’s family history software. Each library is different, so check out your library’s website for more information.
Technology and Internet Access
Libraries provide a range of technology for use for free. You can visit the library to book a computer to browse the internet or print, which is a very valuable resource to those who may not have access to these things at home. Of course, just about everything in today’s modern world is done online – paying bills, booking a holiday, applying for financial support for example – so a visit to the library can make this a little easier. Libraries also offer tech classes for seniors who may need a little help navigating a computer or browsing the internet, for learning new skills such as simple coding or using particular software, and they can even help with tech issues you may be having with your own device. It’s such a fantastic service – and it’s free!
Social engagement
Libraries offer a range of classes, social meetups, and groups for people of all ages. These can range from hobby groups organised by the members, staff-run sessions about a particular topic, or outside presenters who teach different skills. In this way, libraries are helping to prevent isolation for those library patrons who attend these sessions.
