Reconnecting Persons with Dementia to their Libraries: Using library materials to improve the quality of life for people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias

Abstract

Inspired by the IFLA Guidelines for Library Services to Persons with Dementia, libraries in the United States have begun to take concrete steps to implement the philosophy and principles outlined in that 2007 report. The Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Interest Group (IGARD) of the Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA), a division of the American Library Association (ALA), was created in 2013 to identify and coordinate the efforts of individual libraries across the country. Authored by Mary Beth Riedner (Chair, IGARD) and Linda Gorman (Director, Harrison Library, Johns Hopkins Medical Center, Baltimore, MD), the poster showcases five successful library programs and services that use books, music, video and technology to stimulate and engage people living with dementia:

• Tales & Travel Program, Gail Borden Public Library District, Elgin, IL • Stories for Life Program, Springfield-Greene County Library, Springfield, MO • ElderPlus Reading Program, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD • Library Memory Café Project, Bridges Library System, Waukesha, WI • Memory Care and Technology Program, Worthington Libraries, Worthington, OH

Also highlighted are related professional tools, journal articles and a research study of the Tales & Travel Program funded by the National Library of Medicine. The poster uses photographs of participants involved with sample materials, as well as graphics depicting research results. It seeks to promote discussion among librarians about how library resources can make a positive difference in the lives of people within their communities who are affected by dementia.