Turning the Page on Senior Poverty: Libraries Provide More than Books!

The rate of senior poverty currently stands at 10.9%. This is the latest data from the Census Bureau.

Getting older should be a time of well-earned relaxation, reflection, and stability. But for a growing number of seniors, it’s also a time of financial insecurity. Medical expenses and other costs on a fixed income leave many older adults struggling. You probably know someone who must choose between groceries, medications, or rent, but hope exists. Mid-Continent Public Library makes a real difference!

MCPL Librarians are superheroes! We have three community resource coordinators who work at our Blue Ridge, South Independence, and Grandview Branches. They assist with a variety of tasks, including helping customers fill out government program paperwork, connecting with case workers, and providing computer help. Access can be a serious issue for seniors who might struggle with technology. The process for applying for social security, finding affordable housing, or locating a doctor happens largely in the digital world, so providing tech support to seniors is an essential lifeline.

By offering free access to books, movies, audiobooks, computers, and Wi-Fi, we eliminate the need for costly subscriptions and technology expenses. Libraries are a wealth of free resources that can help seniors enhance their quality of life while saving money.

No matter where seniors are in their financial lives, still working, retired, or preparing to retire, MCPL has many ways to help with a tight budget. Tax help resources, scam prevention, creating a will, and job search assistance are just a few of the skills we use to ensure seniors can manage their finances wisely.

For example, seniors love to bargain hunt and save money! MCPL offers a free value calculator to estimate just how much you can save by using Library resources.

MCPL also offers access to Consumer Reports through our databases for money-saving product ratings and buying guides. Does your older loved one like to go fishing? We also have fishing poles and tackle boxes for checkout at several branches.

Of course, MCPL has many great books about finance geared toward seniors, including:

• The Simple Path to Wealth by J.L Collins
• Get What’s Yours: The Secrets to Maxing Out Your Social Security by Laurence J. Kotlikoff

To reduce the need for paid activities, our Libraries host free educational programs, exercise classes, and special events. Just take a look at our events page! With all these services available, MCPL is a valuable hub for seniors looking to stretch their budgets and stay engaged.

If you know a senior struggling financially, encourage them to visit one of our 34 branches and ask for more information.
How has MCPL helped you and your Seniors?

Michelle C.
Reader Engagement Department