Lifelong Access Libraries

Mission

Lifelong Access Libraries is a national initiative of Libraries for the Future aimed at causing fundamental change in how public libraries define, create, and deliver their services to active older adults, a segment of the population that is growing rapidly across the nation.


Goals

Lifelong Access Libraries is organized around three goals:

• Create a distinct specialty within adult services,
o focusing on active, engaged older adults;

• Establish Lifelong Access in five demonstration regions
o as a practical framework for library services;

• Promote public and private investment in libraries
o as centers for productive aging.


National Context

Hanging a sign for “seniors” won’t work for this generation, who are healthier, more active, and more committed to community service than their elders. By providing connections to meaningful work, creative retirement, and lifelong learning, public libraries can recharge themselves, millions of individuals, and all our communities.

Our nation is facing an explosion in the number of adults 55 and older who, in contrast to earlier generations, are healthier, more active, and more consistently committed to ongoing community engagement. Research on adults who have reached the age of retirement indicates that the retirement years are enhanced where there are multiple social and civic connections, ongoing learning, and opportunities for work other than caregiving. By providing opportunities for such connections, Lifelong Access complements the broad range of traditional services offered by libraries for older Americans.