Library Program

Public libraries in suburban Cook County offer targeted programming to older adults in their communities, providing socialization and bridging the digital divide.

Program Mission

Since 2018, AgeOptions’ Library 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. Through the pandemic, AgeOptions expanded the library program and partnered with libraries to address the digital divide by establishing a targeted tech-lending program that will accompany tech education and training.

The mission of the Library Program is to establish connections to the Aging Network service agencies in your community, increase access to technology for adults 60+, and address social isolation in communities by providing resources through targeted programming to build community engagement.

What do our library partners provide?

Each of our partner libraries develops a unique and individualized plan to serve best the older adults in their community, which may include:

Tech-lending
Tech training, education, and assistance
Virtual and In-Person programming
Recreational programming, including gardening, chair yoga, Tai Chi, Wits Workout (c), and walking groups
Take-home kits (including crafts, puzzles, and other brain teasers)
Hosting AgeOptions’ presentations and workshops

Contact your local library for more information!

Current Library Partners FY25

North Region

West Region

South Region

Stories of the Library

Tinley Park Public Library

Our older adult patrons love coming to the library for our special daytime programs. Each month, we host at least one afternoon performance, a workshop, or an educational lecture. In October, actor Duffy Hudson brought Albert Einstein to life and explained the Theory of Relativity in a fun, exciting way. Many of our regulars have gotten to know each other as well as the programming staff, and they greet each other warmly. We often hear about how they appreciate the variety of programs the library offers that are free to everyone, and it gives them a reason to get out of the house.

Homewood Public Library

We had a low-vision senior check out a digital magnifier we purchased with the AgeOptions grant, and she told us how grateful she was for the device.

Evergreen Park Public Library

Our computer instructor always does a fantastic job with her [older adult] students, and they always let us know! As soon as they walk out of the Computer Lab, they’re bustling with excitement about the skills they learned in that hour. These classes are in very high demand, and the excitement [of the older adults] is amplified when they learn they can schedule a one-on-one appointment to further their learning.

Forest Park Public Library

We used Wit’s Workout for the first time this Quarter. Staff member Dennis facilitated this engaging program. We were a bit uncertain [about] how this new gambit would go over with our crowd. The Social Circle enjoyed it, to the point where you could see the neurons bopping around under the furrowed brows as people made new connections, tested their memories, laughed and joked and told stories. One patron who’d come for the first time (L.V.) loved the program and has become a regular in the weeks since, stating that the library is a “magnet” for him.

Markham Public Library

Some of my new seniors have met new friends here in the programs. These programs have really brought a lot of our seniors out of social isolation and help[ed] them work out and have a good time. They are constantly telling everyone about the great programs we are able to provide due to the AgeOptions [funding]. We were able to bring joy to one of our patrons who had become very lonely and now she lights up a room.

AgeOptions is proud to partner with local public libraries and celebrates libraries all year, especially during National Library Week (click here to learn more). We encourage everyone to visit their local library!

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