Library Provides Virtual Events and Innovative Programs that Help Older Adults Stay Connected
Denver Public Library
"At the Denver Public Library, we view age as a gift."
Amy DelPo, the Administrator of Older Adult Services at the Denver Public Library, believes through supporting older adults, the library can help create a strong community where everyone thrives. That vision, along with their mission of making "welcoming spaces where all are free to explore and connect," exemplifies the library's role as a place for community, connection, and exploration.
In her role, DelPo oversees all aspects of the library's services for people ages 50 and up across the library's 26 branches. The job entails programming, events, partnerships, staff training, social inclusion, and outreach to support older adults. DelPo's position - along with the work she does - is funded by the NextFifty Initiative.
"Our virtual programming has been a great source of information, connection, and comfort to older adults during the pandemic," explained DelPo.
In addition to seeing strong attendance from older adults at virtual events since the pandemic began the use of the library's website and eMedia has also skyrocketed.
While DelPo looks forward to the day that she can meet with older adults in person again, she also believes that virtual options will continue to be part of the library's offerings for older adults who may not want or be able to leave their homes.
When thinking about what's next, DelPo simply says, "More."
"We're working on telephone programming and more connection through innovative means, as well as more partnerships with community organizations," she explained. "Right now, we are working on a pen pal book club, where staff members and community members mail each other letters about books they have read. We are also developing creative engagement kits to deliver to people isolated in senior living facilities." And we are working with Think 360 Arts to do virtual high-quality creative aging classes on Zoom, she added.
