When you think of the public library, you probably think about story time. Yes, the library is indeed a wonderful place for children, but it’s an excellent gathering place for adults, too.
Going to the library is a fantastic way to get out and socialize, and this is especially important for seniors. The good news is that Cumberland County Public Library offers plenty of chances to do exactly that.
Starting in June, the Hope Mills Community Branch will begin hosting a monthly Senior Social Hour at 12:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month. There will be a different activity at each social hour.
The first meeting is June 20 and will feature a coffee mug exchange. Many of us have too many coffee mugs, and this is the chance to give some away to new cupboards. While this may not be helpful if you’re trying to de-clutter, you can still take home coffee mugs new to your home.
Test out your new mug with coffee provided at the social hour. The Hope Mills Library is at 3411 Golfview Road.
East Regional Library will host card and board games for seniors at 10 a.m. on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Feel free to bring your own refreshments, and the library will supply all the games.
Play card games like gin rummy, hearts, bridge, Phase 10 and Uno and board games like chess, checkers, Scrabble, Pictionary, Othello, Battleship and Connect 4. The June Senior Night is on June 28. East Regional Library is at 4809 Clinton Road.
The library also offers plenty of books to help assist older adults achieve improved body and mind health. Whether you’ve been exercising your entire life or are just starting, the library has titles such as "Stretching Exercises for Seniors" and "Balance Exercises for Seniors," both by Baz Thompson. There’s also "Relax Into Yoga for Seniors" by Kimberly Carson.
Exercise your mind by learning about the devices around you, such as iPads, iPhones, tablets, laptops and computers. The library offers books on how to use these devices, but if you prefer a more in-person approach, Tech Time @ the Library drop-in events include digital navigators to assist you and answer your technology questions.
Tech Time has a regular monthly schedule at all eight library branches. For times and locations, as well as information on all library programs, stop in, call 910-483-7727 or visit www.cumberlandcountync.gov/library.
Sabrina Taylor is an adult services librarian at the Hope Mills Community Branch of the Cumberland County Public Library.
