Local libraries are often the beating hearts of their communities. Not only do they house a wealth of knowledge, they also provide gathering spaces for book clubs and community organizations, computer access, technology training, and educational workshops that keep people connected and informed while navigating life challenges. Far more than places to borrow books, libraries serve as trusted connectors, linking community members to valuable information, programs, and services. As resource hubs, they offer tools and support that promote healthy aging, lifelong learning, caregiver support, and overall well-being.
September is Library Card Sign-Up Month, a perfect time to start exploring how you can get the most out of this beloved institution. Below, we’ve outlined many of the ways you can use your library to stay connected with your community, prioritize healthy aging, and do it all at little to no cost.
Getting the Most Out of A Library Card:
- Step 1: Find your local library and sign up for a library card.
- If you haven’t already, pay your library a visit and get your library card. Make sure to bring proof of your address—your driver’s license, state identification card, or a utility bill are acceptable.
- Step 2: Of course, check out the books!
- Not sure where to start? Check out the bestsellers for fan-favorites or peruse the new releases section and get ahead of the curve. Don’t forget to look at the nonfiction titles, from cookbooks and gardening, to business and biography.
- Step 3: Choose a magazine or DVD.
- Want something lighter? Most libraries have a wide range of magazines or DVDs you can choose from and enjoy.
- Step 4: Bring the little ones.
- Libraries often have a children’s area where kids can meet with friends for a playdate or simply enjoy a change of scenery and some new toys to play with. You can also choose new children’s books to bring home and read together. There might even be a storytime or craft you can take part in.
- Step 5: Look over your library’s event calendar.
- The library is a fantastic source of free activities for you and your family. When you’re sitting down and planning out your month, take some time to look at your library’s events calendar, usually available at the front desk or online.
- Step 6: Create an online account and place holds online.
- For the ultimate convenience, you can search titles in your library’s online catalog and request a copy of what interests you. When the book is ready, you’ll get an alert to pick it up at the library’s circulation desk.
- Step 7: Reserve a museum pass.
- You can get free or discounted museum passes through your library. Ask for a brochure at the circulation desk or check out the list online. At some libraries, you can check out a daily pass to a local state park, and once you’ve enjoyed your sightseeing or hiking adventure, you simply return the pass to the library.
- Step 8: Download an ebook or audiobook.
- E-books and audiobooks are game changers for readers on-the-go. Use your library app to search for available ebooks/audiobooks and download them.
- Step 9: Look into potential freebies.
- Libraries often offer discounted or free items or experiences that most people don’t even know about. Check out your local library’s website or ask your librarian about:
- free internet access, including take-home Wi-Fi hotspots.
- reservable tablets, laptops and other electronic devices.
- streaming services for free TV shows, movies, documentaries and music.
- libraries of seeds to plant in your garden.
- out-of-the-box items such as camping gear, cookware, art, stargazing gadgets, power tools, sewing machines, baking tins, and more.
- educational opportunities like English language courses or adult literacy programs.
- free social services like tax assistance or legal advice.
- Libraries often offer discounted or free items or experiences that most people don’t even know about. Check out your local library’s website or ask your librarian about:
Resources for Healthy Aging:
Many libraries have recognized a growing need for resources and support that help patrons maintain their health and well-being as they age. That’s why they often have special programming or initiatives aimed at improving the library experience for both active older adults and those experiencing social isolation or issues with accessibility. Especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, libraries have increased their focus on using technology as a tool for connection and cognitive stimulation. Some resources for older adults in Cook County include:
AgeOptions Library CARES Program
The AgeOptions Library CARES Program has connected suburban Cook County public libraries to the aging network to enhance older adult programming, focus on social isolation, and increase the community’s understanding of the available benefits and services. The libraries within this network offer a range of services, which may include:
- Tech-lending
- Tech training, education, and assistance, including accessibility to Northstar Digital Literacy Platform
- Virtual and In-Person programming
- Recreational programming, including gardening, chair yoga, Tai Chi, and walking groups
- Take-home kits (including crafts, puzzles, and other brain teasers)
- Collaboration with local Aging Services providers to share resources
- Hosting AgeOptions’ presentations and workshops
“Aging Well in Chicago: Services, Support, and Community”
The Chicago Public Library also regularly offers a series of presentations called “Aging Well in Chicago: Services, Support, and Community” in collaboration with the Chicago Department of Family & Support Services (DFSS) Senior Services Division. The presentations focus on programs and resources available to older adults, caregivers, and families across Chicago. Topics include Medicare counseling and benefits assistance, home-delivered meals, congregate dining programs, senior centers, chore services, caregiver support, dementia-friendly communities, case advocacy, elder rights, and legal services.
Chicago Public Library (CPL) Events
From seminars on brain health to aerobics classes, many libraries offer events aimed at helping improve healthy aging for older adults for free or a nominal fee. On the CPL event calendar, you can toggle the audience demographic to Seniors (55 and up) to find events specifically recommended for older adults.
Resources for People Living with Dementia:
Libraries can help people living with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia and their loved ones by providing access to a supportive, stigma-free space and free, quality information and programs. Many libraries throughout the state have also joined the Dementia Friendly Illinois movement to better support those impacted by the disease in their communities. Memory cafés and memory care kits are just a few ways libraries are positioned to support people living with dementia.
Memory cafés
Memory cafés offer an opportunity for people with dementia and a family member or friend to join a group together. They are a wonderful space for people to be together, socialize, share an activity, and sometimes food. Many libraries offer memory cafés regularly. Search the Dementia Friendly America Memory Café Directory to find one near you.
Memory care kits
Memory kits are a collection of sensory-based activities designed to engage individuals with cognitive impairments, sparking discussions and opportunities to reflect and emotional responses. These kits vary in themes and activities, aiming to enhance mental stimulation and emotional well-being. Contact your local library to see if they have any memory kits available, or if you can check one out from another location in-network.
It can be easy to think of public libraries as a thing of the past, but they continue to evolve alongside the communities they serve. Today, libraries offer far more than books—providing resources, programs, and connections that support learning, well-being, and engagement at every stage of life. Especially for older adults or people living with dementia, libraries are a treasure of resources that can make you feel more connected to others and better equipped for navigating difficult circumstances. All of these resources, and many more, are just a library card away. If you don’t already have one, now is the perfect time to sign up and start exploring everything your local library has to offer. Get your library card today!
Note: To learn more about library efforts within Dementia Friendly communities, or for library staff interested in accessing resources designed for people with dementia, visit the ICRN Library Support page.
Sources: Illinois Cognitive Resources Network, AgeOptions, AARP, Chicago Public Library
