Making Community Connections @ Your Library

By Nicholle Gerharter, Reference Librarian

January 12, 2011

Commercials these days are full of financial advice. Watch any sporting event, news channel, or just about any primetime program, and you will see commercials aimed at getting Baby Boomers through retirement with their finances intact. A myriad of companies want you to follow a special path, stand on a firm rock, or have a chat with a financial advisor in order to be financially fit in retirement.

While it is important to consider money matters in retirement, it is just as important to consider the social, intellectual, and health implications of retirement. These four “pillars” appear again and again in research about longevity and aging gracefully.

At the Natrona County Public Library, we provide resources to help strengthen all four pillars. Here are a few ways seniors can stay connected socially with the help of their library.

During the cold, windy winter months, often lasting until April or May in Wyoming, it is easy to stay bundled up inside, isolated from the community.

Books By Mail service can take some of the sting out of that separation. We mail library materials to those who are unable to visit the library, and their caregivers, free of charge. The library pays all postage to and from the recipient, and any library materials can be requested for mailing. Connecting to the wider world through books, DVDs, audiobooks and magazines can make a big impact, helping participants stay socially connected and mentally sharp.

For those who can brave the outdoors during the winter, NCPL offers numerous activities for seniors and retirees. Meet new people and expand your horizons by attending one of these events at your library.

Wednesday Writers is a monthly memoir-writing workshop, aimed at getting participants comfortable with sharing their life stories. This informal, encouraging group meets the first Wednesday of the month at 10 a.m. You need not formally attend each month – drop in when you can and see if Wednesday Writers is a good fit for you.

Avid readers, or those who wish they were, can come to Book Chat, meeting the first Thursday of each month at 2:00 p.m. Book Chat is a great way to increase your “to read” list by getting suggestions from librarians and other readers. I can guarantee that you will hear about at least one book you’ll want to check out.

Crafty Afternoons is our newest offering for seniors and others wishing to make community connections. Once a month, keep your mind and fingers flexible by learning a new craft in a relaxed, social setting. The first Crafty Afternoon will be held Thursday, January 13 at 2:00 p.m. To kick off the monthly series, bring your own craft and show the group what you can do. Most following months will be organized around a specific project to learn and try.

In order to stay healthy, wealthy, wise, and socially connected in retirement, be sure to visit your Natrona County Public Library this winter, or call 577-READ to find out more about library programs for seniors and retirees.

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