Several months ago, the library was very fortunate to be accepted into the federally funded EqualAccess Libraries grant program. Participants in this program attended extensive training institutes, and then undertook a major initiative to identify the needs and interests of active older adults in Amesbury.

EqualAccess Libraries is a professional development program that trains public librarians in how to address their community’s most pressing needs through assessment and information gathering, development of strategic partnerships with local organizations, and the creation of innovative work plans that reflect their community’s unique character. Additionally, EqualAccess participants discuss the latest trends impacting Baby Boomers and older adults; explore new uses of technology to expand services; and develop their expertise in outreach, needs assessment and collaboration.

Following training institutes, library staff uses both their new skills and financial awards of $5,000 to provide ongoing outreach and develop new services that align with their findings.

ThinkAhead Amesbury is an EqualAccess program, which is being funded through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners with funds from LSTA (Library Services and Technology Act), a Federal source of library funding provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. EqualAccess Libraries™ is a professional development program sponsored by Libraries for the Future (LFF).