Education
Public libraries
Founded to serve as institutions for lifelong learners, public libraries represent a key point of access for community-based education. Public libraries are supported locally and link independent learners to materials, programs, and other community agencies. The Texas State Library and Archives Commission administers ten regional library systems that provide consultation and technical assistance to more than 500 main public libraries and 300 branches.
The American Library Association established guidelines that promote library services specifically for seniors. The national guidelines state that librarians must “promote information and resources on aging and its implications not only to older adults themselves, but also to family members, professionals in the field of aging, and other persons interested in the aging process.”To satisfy the guidelines, many public libraries across the United States have a designated older adult specialist or outreach specialist to specifically promote older adult programs. Other libraries simply choose to have a more integrated approach to programs and services provided (e.g., intergenerational program approach).
In Texas, public libraries are increasingly aware of the need for targeted services to serve an aging population. Professional meetings are now featuring sessions to assist librarians with programs designed specifically for the senior population. Public libraries located in large cities, such as Dallas and Houston, have implemented separated departments that are dedicated to senior services.
In some cases, Texas public libraries have received federal grants from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission to provide specific outreach to older adults. For example, El Progresso Public Library in Uvalde County used grant funds to provide library services (e.g., book delivery, book talks, reading sessions, library card issuance) to nursing home and assisted living facility residents, as well as homebound elders and “snowbirds”(winter residents) living in recreational vehicles (RVs). Furthermore, the Texas State Library and Archives Commission sponsors the Talking Book Program, which provides materials in large print, Braille, or audio to people with permanent or temporary visual, physical, or learning impairments. The Talking Book Program also provides an information and referral service on disability issues that is free and available to the public. A total of 17,962 Texans currently use the Talking Book Program. The Talking Book Program also has a federal mandate to give priority service to qualifying veterans, many of whom are over age 60 or will be over age 60 within the next decade.
Additionally, older Texans can receive books by mail, home-delivered services, large-print newspapers and periodicals, books on tape and cassettes, visits to retirement and nursing homes, monthly reading sessions to seniors in nursing homes, assistance with the Internet and computer usage, and curb-side service. Public library services vary by region and are based on community needs and available funding. Therefore, community residents must call their local libraries to get a list of services available.
Updated: November 2, 2007
