The James Kennedy Public Library is beginning a new outreach service on Wednesday, September 5, 2012. Branching Out will take library services to the Senior Meals Center on a weekly basis.

With the last census, Dyersville’s population grew only slightly from 2000 to 2010. However, the population over 65 grew by 2% during that same decade. Viewing that statistic and the library’s commitment to continually expand its services, the idea for the Branching Out service began. At present, JKPL has been increasing the programs that are offered, the books in regular and large print, and DVD’s of movies and TV series of interest to the over 65 population. This new service will connect two public entities and is hoped to benefit those who are involved with them and make the library more accessible to these residents.

There are many Dyersville senior residents who participate in the Senior Meals program. For their convenience, a staff member from the James Kennedy Public Library will take a selection of books, DVD’s, audiobooks, and magazines to the Dyersville Social Center every Wednesday during lunch time.  Participants will be able to check out materials, return materials, put in requests for specific titles, address simple reference and readers’ advisory questions, and any similar task that could be addressed at the front desk of the library. Short informational talks about upcoming programs at the library or favorite books may be given.  Any materials not checked out will be returned to the library and a new selection of materials will be brought to the Center the following week.

In addition, the library will now hang up a poster at the Center that lists the upcoming library events of interest to Seniors. The poster will be updated weekly so check back frequently!  We hope by providing program information at the Center that this will allow Seniors to keep up to date on events that might interest them and put a specific program on their calendar.

The James Kennedy Public Library is excited to offer Branching Out and to offer library services at another location in Dyersville.