Bringing Seniors Together
Ask Donna Hossack about what she loves about Vancouver Public Library and be prepared for an enthusiastic answer. She’s been a fan since 1995, when she was a member of the orchestra performing across from Central Library at the Centre for the Performing Arts. Now retired, Donna knows first-hand how important library spaces, collections and programs are for seniors.
Book borrowing among patrons aged 60 plus is on the rise. Many older patrons also visit VPL to participate in programs such as book clubs and attend free workshops that offer the opportunity to learn anything from computer basics to podcasting to travel writing. The Library provides a place to connect and socialize – an essential need for seniors like Donna.
Donna and her theatrical friends particularly enjoy getting together and reading plays from the Library’s extensive script collection.
"If you walk into any library on any afternoon, you'll see seniors sitting and reading," says Donna. "But it's not just about reading - it's social too. Libraries give us a place to meet."
Since her retirement, Donna has become even more involved with the library through volunteering with Friends of the VPL and leading a play-reading group. Donna knows first-hand how important library spaces, collections and programs are for seniors. The library provides a place to connect and socialize.