ALA and Knology have conducted a high-level review of the existing literature on this subject, focusing on programs designed to advance health and well-being, social connectedness, end-of-life care and caregiver support. The report provides a view of the library programming environment as represented in current literature.
The landscape report finds that libraries generally concentrate their efforts in four areas: leisure, lifelong learning, health and digital technologies. Existing data on program effectiveness is severely limited, though the available evidence suggests that libraries are positively impacting older adults’ lives in three main ways: improving knowledge, attitudes, and skills; advancing physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing; and strengthening social connectedness and feelings of community belonging.
Read the full landscape report here
The 44-page report offers insight into what scholars have studied and found to date on library programming for older adults. It precedes a final report, expected in February 2027, produced by a team of advisors, ALA, Knology and the project funder, The John A. Hartford Foundation. The final report will provide an in-depth look at what libraries are doing for older adults and offer recommendations and best practices for programming.
This project is generously supported by The John A. Hartford Foundation, a private, nonpartisan, national philanthropy dedicated to improving the care of older adults.