Before she moved to Oak Park, Marti Middlebrook already loved visiting the Main Library with her granddaughters. But when she came in on her own one Friday morning, she got pulled in a little further.
Older Adult Coffee Hour was happening, as it does on the first Friday of every month.
After “admitting to myself that I am now an older adult,” Marti says, she joined in. “I found it welcoming and informative.”
Catch up, meet new people & learn
The monthly coffee hour is an opportunity for self-identified older adults to catch up with friends and neighbors and meet new people with similar interests.
They get together for an hour of relaxed conversation followed by a half-hour activity—for example, staff-led tours of the library’s art collection, Creative Studio, and Special Collections.
In addition to learning about library offerings and local events, Marti says, “I have made a friend or two and will continue to attend as often as possible. Thank you for making an Oak Park newcomer feel so welcome.”
Programs, resources & services for older adults
In the 2020 census, one in six Americans was 65 or older. Library Assistant Janet Lorch, who has been running the program since 2024, says it’s important to tailor some library programming toward older adults.
“It’s one way to demonstrate that their interests and needs are prioritized and valued,” she says.
Supported by Older Adult Services Librarian Claire Steiner, the library also curates resources and services especially appealing to adults ages 60+, in addition to regular events like the coffee hour.
Participation at the coffee hour has grown over time, through word of mouth and intentional outreach. Some longstanding attendees also serve as “ambassadors” who help newcomers feel welcome.
Emphasis on social interaction
While the group has its regulars, participant Sheila Elliott says “there are also people like myself who attend most, but not all of the time, so there’s always someone new to meet, or someone you met a month or two before and can check in with.”
Conversation starters and activities are offered each month, but Sheila says the emphasis is on social interaction.
“It’s the only group I’ve ever belonged to where we start by spending most of our time just talking with each other in a casual, informal way,” she says.
“That sort of informality leads to a very relaxed atmosphere, fun conversations, and a good time. I belong to quite a few other groups and have a lot of hobbies, but the Older Adult Coffee Hour is definitely the most easygoing of any of my interests, hands down.”
‘Believe me, this group is quite lively’
Leah, who has been attending for about eight months, says it’s “the diverse and intriguing gathering of mature people” that really draws her in.
“Each month people invite the group to join other activities in the community and talk about their personal work as writers, entertainers, activists, and volunteers,” Leah says.
“Believe me, this group is quite lively, and I certainly enjoy learning from them. Everyone has some knowledge, wisdom and humor to share. I am never let down or left out in this group.”
Older Adult Coffee Hour
The group meets on the first Friday of the month, 9:30–11 am, at the Main Library.