North Texas Regional Library System

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Adult Programming

ADULT PROGRAMMING by Katherine Boyer, Roanoke Public Library

We all do well with programming for children and teens, but adult programming is more difficult in this day of computer technology and fast-paced lifestyles. Adult programming should address these issues as well as, interests and proximity to the library.

Book clubs are great for adult programming. The State’s One City, One Book is one way of hosting a book club. You can also host a small group reading the same book and getting together to discuss it. Another idea is to have the participants read different books and have a get together (coffee klatch, pot luck or other kind of refreshments) to recommend the book they read by giving a short 5 or 10 minute synopsis about why they recommend the book.

Writer’s groups, with visiting authors, editors and publishers are another way to reach out to adults. Even people who do not write like to attend these programs. A writer’s group can help aspiring writers to interact with published authors and learn about their craft. You may find that you have a future best selling author in your midst.

Another avenue for adult programming is adult education programs. These can include ESL classes, literacy programs, GED, computer classes, life skills workshops and workplace literacy. Any of these programs will draw from a growing population of people who want to learn or need to learn something to better function in their world.

The best program that Roanoke has had for adults is computer classes. They participate and are even happy to share computers just to learn how to turn on the computer and send email to the grandkids or learn applications to organize their lives. We have a six week series that begins with An Introduction to the Computer, then An Introduction to the Internet. We also do introductions to Microsoft Office (Word, Power Point and Excel). The last program in the series is a Q&A where they can ask any questions and get answers. If anyone wants more than the rudimentary learning, we set up one-on-one training with them. We also follow up with one-on-one answers to questions when people need help after the classes are finished.
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Special programs throughout the year draw people who cannot make more than a one time commitment. These can include genealogy programs, health programs, author visits, investment or other money related programs, as well as a myriad of other programs as they present themselves.

There are speaker’s bureaus where you can find a wealth of resources to present programs for your patrons. The American Speakers Bureau can provide free speakers on several subjects, as can your local Texas Cooperative Extension Agencies. For specific subjects, such as museum information, or the arts you can go to the agency and ask if they have speakers or programs that would fit with your programming.

Targeting the events of the day is a way to plan your adult programs. Ask someone from the local news media to talk about a news event or editorial that has been ‘hot news’. Invite the City Manager or Mayor to talk about city progress (but not around election time, of course). Ask your local Chamber of Commerce for a speaker to talk about economic development in your region. Check with service clubs, such as Rotary or the Lions Club to talk about their programs.

There are many avenues for adult programming out there. All you need to do is schedule and promote.