Services for Older Adults at BPL offers inclusive programming and services tailored to our patrons over the age of 55, including lectures, films, performances and educational programs that reflect the wide interests of today’s older adults.
Programs & Classes for Older Adults
For the convenience of our older adults, we offer programming in person or virtually via Facebook Live, Zoom meetings, and streaming from our branch staff!
Books by Mail
This fast, convenient service provides books, audiobooks and videos to people who are homebound or have a visual disability.
Creative Aging
Multi-session art workshops for patrons ages 55 and older, led by a professional teaching artist.
More Highlights from BPL's Services for Older Adults
- Books-to-Go
We supply reading and viewing materials to older adults in nursing homes, senior centers, and senior residence buildings. Materials include books in English and other languages (some in large print), DVDs, and audiobooks. Book club sets are available too. Books-to-Go Application
- Technology For All: Individual Assistance
Helps older adults with tech needs, such as: iPhone & Android (Smartphones); Computer Support (Google Suite, Microsoft365, Outlook, Gmail); Virtual Programs (Zoom, Microsoft Team); Social Media (Youtube, Instagram, Facebook); Microsoft & Mac iOS Software.
Email SCalbi@bklynlibrary.org or call 718-938-2525 for more information. English and Spanish available.
"Technology For All" is generously supported by the New York Foundation for Eldercare.
- Sharing Reflections
Hosted by Senior Assistants at Libraries, Nursing Homes, Senior Centers, Hospitals, and Rehabilitation Facilities, this program offers patrons the chance to reminisce about things in life that have influenced who they have become today. It’s a great opportunity to travel back in time, talk about journey and destination, meet new people, hear about their experiences, and connect with community members. Laughter and fun are integral ingredients of our program. This program is offered in English, Spanish, Russian, and Chinese. For more information, please contact Services for Older Adults' staff at jvigo@bklynlibrary.org or 718-230-2442.
- Our Streets, Our Stories (OSOS)
OSOS is an ongoing oral history project exploring Brooklyn from the words of its residents. Recorded virtual interviews are an option for homebound patrons. To participate, please contact Services for Older Adults' staff at BHughes@bklynlibrary.org or 718-236-1760.
- Senior Debate and Intergenerational Debate
To learn more about senior debate and intergenerational debate [teens and older adults] at Brooklyn Public Library, please contact Services for Older Adults' staff at bhughes@bklynlibrary.org or 718-236-1760.
- Resources for Older Adults and their Caregivers
Please check here for Information for Older Adults and their Caregivers
Upcoming Events
Creative Aging: Journaling in Watercolor
Join us in this 9-week workshop. Participants will develop drawing, watercolor painting and journal writing skills through creative prompts and exercises, exploring and sharing their stories. At the culminating event, participants will share their work and discuss their experiences. This…
Creative Aging: Joyful Beads
This program has been moved from Midwood Library to New Utrecht Library due to upcoming closure for renovations.
Join us in this 9-week workshop for hands-on and engaging instruction in jewelry making. Participants are encouraged to relax and share their skills as they take part in…
Creative Aging: "Faces of Imagination" Mask Making
Join us in this hands-on workshop immerses students in the fundamentals of mask-making using recycled materials and traditional techniques. Participants will design and create a unique character while exploring the rich history of mask-making as an artistic expression, storytelling tool, and…
Mend & Make at Marcy Library
Do you have clothes that need mending? A craft project you are working on? Join us on Thursdays to mend clothing & textiles, learn to knit, exchange skills, and chat with fellow creatives! Bring your mending, crocheting, knitting, embroidery, or whatever else you're working on and get to…
Creative Aging: Unique Mask Making
Join us in this hands-on workshop immerses students in the fundamentals of mask-making using recycled materials and traditional techniques. Participants will design and create a unique character while exploring the rich history of mask-making as an artistic expression, storytelling tool, and…
Let's Have Fun with Acrylics!
Learn how to use acrylic paint to create more realistic artwork. We will explore the fundamentals of art, painting from observation, and bringing subjects to life using shadows, depth, composition, and color. Find your style of painting through completing still life, landscapes, portraits, and a…
Flatlands Presents Chair Zumba For Seniors
Attend Chair Zumba at home via zoom or in person!
Register to receive the Zoom link or come to the Flatlands Library, 2065 Flatbush Avenue, to attend the virtual Chair Zumba program with your fellow community members.
Chair Zumba for Seniors is a 30 minute, seated, gentle…
Little Garden Studies in Watercolor
Join experienced art instructor Nigel Morgan for a relaxing watercolor class focused on charming little garden studies. In this class we’ll explore how to capture the beauty of flowers, leaves, pots, and garden corners using loose, expressive watercolor techniques. Perfect for beginners…
Creative Aging: Watercolor Relaxation
Join us in this relaxing 9-week workshop! You won’t regret it.
Discover the beauty of watercolor painting in this inspiring class designed especially for older adults! In a relaxed and encouraging setting, you’ll learn how to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of creating visual art. Whether…
Jigsaw Puzzle Hour
Drop in for socializing and jigsaw puzzle fun! Come try out a variety of new and vintage puzzles with other puzzle enthusiasts.
No registration required, just drop in. We provide the puzzles, while you partake in a relaxing way to exercise your mind.
Adults and Teens are…
