Libraries for the Future is the program division of the Americans for Libraries Council. LFF provides programs at the national, state and local levels, typically in partnership with libraries, library systems, foundations and community-based organizations. They currently operate in more than 100 communities in 20 states. Their signature programs include Family Place, a national initiative that transforms libraries into centers for healthy child development and family literacy, and EqualAccess Libraries, model programs that help libraries animate new technologies and enhance their capacities as centers for information and education.
As part of Libraries for the Future’s Lifelong Access Libraries – Centers for Lifelong Learning and Civic Engagement initiative, libraries in seven states are receiving training and technical assistance to support their development of Lifelong Access centers.
These centers are library-community collaboratives, a new library services model for working with older adults that fosters successful aging through an emphasis on learning, social connections, life planning and community engagement. In Pennsylvania, Arizona, Connecticut and Massachusetts, Lifelong Access Libraries are working with older adult advisory councils to develop innovative programs–creating welcoming spaces to foster social connections, and re-organizing and expanding information resources to support learning and community connections.
Lifelong Access reflects the Access philosophy of community collaboration and stakeholder involvement. Library staff develop partnerships with community colleges, senior centers, health organizations, workforce agencies and volunteer centers in order to maximize community resources.
Together these community collations work to:
• Promote coordination of programs and services • Engage older adults in the design and delivery of services • Share resources and expertise to provide life planning counseling and opportunities for lifelong learning • Provide options for meaningful work or community services • Provide information and assistance with resource navigation • Develop community space or spaces that foster social exchange and connections across generations and cultural groups.
Libraries are natural partners for productive aging, with spaces, learning programs, service opportunities and community information. Training in Lifelong Access helps librarians build on these assets for the benefit of older adults and the larger community.
For more information on Libraries for the Future visit www.lff.org.
For more information on lifelong learning for older adults you can visit www.learninglater.com
