Libraries & Seniors
Strengthening Services for Older Missourians
The Report and Recommendations of the Task Force on Library Services for Older Adults
Rewards and Barriers to Providing Services to Seniors
The Task Force took pleasure in discussing the rewards of providing library services for seniors, and also identified barriers that weaken or reduce services libraries may provide for older adults.
Rewards |
The rewards realized by libraries serving seniors are numerous. Seniors who serve as literacy trainers, program speakers, storytime assistants, mentors, technology trainers and in other volunteer capacities provide a valuable service to the library and the community with their experience and history. In much the same way, seniors who use and support their local public libraries serve as valuable advocates for libraries, literacy and lifelong learning. Senior participation in library planning will assist libraries in properly assessing the needs of seniors and implementing appropriate programs. With Missourians 60 and over comprising 18 percent of the state's population, this group can serve as a strong and active voice for library issues to the legislature and local governments. |
Barriers |
An important barrier to providing services for seniors is a lack of resources, which shows up most strongly in collections, staff and the library's physical environment. In some cases, library collections are inadequate to meet the leisure, information or educational needs of older adults. Many libraries point to a lack of adequate staff to provide special senior services and programs. This may be especially true when libraries seek to provide outreach services to meet the needs of seniors who cannot visit the library. Unlike services to other special populations, such as young people, few library staff qualify as senior services specialists. In addition, little formal training is available in Missouri to prepare library staff for serving an older adult population. A final barrier that prevents libraries from providing services revolves around ergonomics. The American Disabilities Act has played a major role in eliminating many physical barriers. However, inadequate lighting, unstable or uncomfortable seating, shelving which requires reaching or bending, and a lack of adaptive devices to enable older adults to use print or non-print resources present barriers to potential library users over 60. |