Senior Adults are stepping out for New Beginnings and Adventures in the Boro, and the Statesboro-Bulloch County Library is helping them do it. Today, I am sharing some unique ways (SIMPLE) to keep us seniors more energized, full of vitality, and smiling.
Take a seat and familiarize yourself with what's available at our very own Statesboro-Bulloch County Library.
Communication is one of the best ways to energize our endorphins. People watching, movie watching, retail therapy, learning something new, or just diving into a great book -- it's all good.
Mind you, you will have to move, stretch, and be willing to venture out of your comfort zone a little! Put on your happy and investigative face to see what I am sharing with you today. Become your own public relations ambassador. This means ‘NO closed doors.' Instead, reach out and see what sounds interesting and fun for you!
Okay seniors, let us get started!
The library can come to you
Recently, I met up with Caroline Johnson, Library Manager at Statesboro-Bulloch County Library. Caroline has made it her goal, in 2024, to not only reach out within Statesboro and Bulloch County to share the resources the library offers but also to increase the Senior Adults programs.
That means you can either attend some of the programs at the Library or they will come to you, especially if transportation or mobility are an issue. The library has a ‘Programming Van’ with book lending, adult crafts, computer and cell phone training, and an abundance of newly discovered programs.
Caroline said, "We provide various programs for Seniors here, at the library or we can travel to a facility located in Bulloch County. I am happy to do a craft program, book exchange, BINGO, etc. So if you are familiar with someone or a group that cannot travel, please contact me."
Recently, she connected with ‘The Gardens Senior Living’ on Gentilly Road in Statesboro. The Gardens is a premier assisted living facility in Statesboro, and Jennifer Jones is their activity director. By invitation, Caroline visited and engaged with residents in a wreath mitten arts and crafts project.
Approximately 12- 14 residents attended. The residents took their craft project seriously! Cutting paper mittens, coloring, decorating, and attaching with glue to the wreath. After finishing the project, they happily showcased their designs.
Caroline said, “I am pleased with the visit and am happy to return mid-January with another craft in mind!”
Resources for reading with vision loss
Caroline also described a program that some Seniors may not be familiar with and that is the ‘Georgia Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (GLS).’
“We can help you!” she proclaimed. “GLS is a free Braille and talking book library service for people with temporary or permanent low vision blindness or a physical disability that prevents reading or holding the printed page. Any resident of Georgia who is unable to read or use regular print materials as a result of temporary or permanent visual or physical limitation can receive service through GLS. The library can be a certifying authority on the application.”
Find the GLS website here: georgialibraries.org.
January Calendar Programs for YOU!!
The Library has an enormous variety of programs for Senior Adults coming up this spring. Just check out this list:
- Senior Social Hour
- Senior Matinee (movie)
- Genealogy Basics
- Adult Book Club
- Senior BINGO (huge hit)
- Statesboro Stitches (knitting and crocheting)
- Tech Help
One of these that I've found most helpful: they provide one-on-one tech, computer, and cell phone help. You can call or sign up for a time that's convenient. (Usually Wednesdays’ and Fridays’ afternoons from 2-4pm are best.)
Everyone is always welcome
The library is open 6 days/week, Monday-Saturday. You can always check their website ([email protected]), Facebook page, or the Grice Connect Events Calendar for more upcoming events.
Caroline summed it up: “Everyone is always welcome!" Most of all, they would love you to come and participate, at NO COST. Come by yourself or with a friend. Just come!
Reach out to [email protected] or call 912-764-1336 for more information.
Make this 2024 a very happy Senior Moment!
