It's terrible that this is a "senior interest web site". Why are all these oldies talking about sex so much if that's the case?

To partially answer your question, a major trend among the aging population, especially women, is further, higher education. Often it's education for the sake of learning, not necessarily to get a new job. I think libraries could compete, in a limited way, with Community Colleges in particular, and offer small-group formal education, not just in computer technology.

The virtues would include no campus to get lost in, small, intimate classes, great atmosphere, and could utilize many of the resources already in place in the library. Transport and parking would be easy, too.

Dear TonyA:

Thank you thank you. It's an idea that is tossed about in libraryland, but so far not many libraries are doing it. Your suggestion will help me a lot - exactly as you worded it - when I go for an interview about senior services in a few weeks. I appreciate it! Anything else??

Well, this a little more vague, and pretty much off the wall. It strikes me that the burgeoning population segment most likely to use the library (can't beat the cost, parking, hours, and evolving great health-care/financial/recreational needs) are the ubiquitous Baby Boomers. Obviously, libraries already know about elderly clients, but the Boomers provide greatly increased scope for services. and represent a huge, wealthy segment of the population.

How about the library presenting itself as a major and principal resource for health-care information, tax and financial data, and travel/recreational information?

You could utilize a variety of attractive educational resources, including the interactive Internet, books and magazines, brochures, CDs, and hopefully, knowledgable staff.

Dear TonyA

Thank you again!

You must be working in libraries!

Are you?

Your comments are right on target.

The Boomers, of course, are a tidal wave of librry customers who will influence what we do - a lot!

Pamela

No, I know absolutely nothing about libraries! I'm a Periodontist (dental specialist). Mainly for fun, I once did a doctorate in the field of higher education, and became quite interested in alternative and innovative continuing education.

By the way, in my last entry to you, I suggested setting up part of the library as a resource for specialized topics. I forgot to add three other subject areas: retirement, hobbies in retirement, working at a job in retirement.

Dear TonyA

You are funny -

I have been reading every document I can find on the development of senior services in public libraries to prepare for a job interview. YOU have summarized the content of those articles in just a few sentences. If you get tired of periodontal work...consider being a library consultant!! You'd be great. Thanks!

Pamela