Older Adults

Older Adult Programs

See our events calendar for programs of interest for older adults.

Computer classes

Gale courses offers free, interactive courses that you can take online. Courses run for six weeks and new sessions begin every month.

Technology help

Book a one-on-one help session with an eExpert at one of our library branch locations.

Book clubs

View the book club schedule to see a list of the many book clubs offered at the library.

The Guelph Public Library has established an Older Adult Advisory Group to provide recommendations and advice on how the Library can best serve the City's growing older adult population with its unique and diverse needs. The volunteer group assists with improving library collections, programs and services for adults 55 and up.

Responsibilities

• Advise on the diverse needs, interests and preferences of older adults, and on the development and evaluation of relevant library services
• Promote increased awareness and lifelong use of the library and its resources
• Encourage older adults to become library members and use library services
• Become familiar with library policies and services relevant to older adults
• Develop strategies to identify and overcome barriers to library use by older adults
• Attend 4 scheduled daytime meetings a year with Guelph Public Library staff at the Main Library
• Group members will serve a two-year term

Qualifications

• 55 years old of age or older
• Ability to work in collaboration with others
• Resident of the City of Guelph
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively
• Previous volunteer experience is an asset

When the Library is looking for new Older Adult Advisory Group members, information will be posted here on the Older Adults page of the website.

Assistive technology

If you have low vision or another disability, we offer the following:

• DAISY audio players
• Zoomtext software
• Large print keyboards
• Mouse trackballs
• Compact magnifiers
• Video magnifiers

Audiobooks

Full length audiobooks are available to borrow on CD, portable media player (Playaway) or through digital download to a computer or portable device. DAISY CDs are available to borrow for cardholders with print disabilities.

Large print books

Large print books are available at all our library locations. Titles include a variety of bestsellers, fiction, and non-fiction.

Books for Adults with Dementia

We offer beautiful, easily-readable books for adults with dementia. These books are full of pictures to discuss and reminisce over with your loved ones. They are located in the Large Print section at the Main Library and can be reserved through the catalogue.

Cognitive Care Kits 

Cognitive Care Kits include assortments of materials specifically encouraging the skills and abilities of people living with early, mid and late sensory stage dementias. Their design will support successful interactions independently, or with a partner, or in a group. Search the catalogue for a list of our many take-home cognitive care kits.

We will select library items for you based on your interests, and you may request specific items. You may borrow books, audiobooks, DVDs and magazines through the service. A library volunteer will deliver to your home.

To register for the service please contact Community Outreach Services or complete the Visiting Library Service Form.

At the library 

In the community

With the Friends of the Guelph Public Library