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Youth librarian Kayla and assistant Corey outline cross‑generational programs at North Liberty library
Summary
Library youth and adult services staff presented a cross-generational programming overview to the North Liberty Library Board, citing benefits such as reduced isolation and family bonding and previewing summer and fall events including board games, bingo and a —Take and Try— circulating collection.
Kayla, the library—youth and teen services librarian, and Corey, the assistant adult services librarian, told the North Liberty Library Board of Trustees about the library—s growing "cross‑gen" programming during the board's regular meeting.
They described cross‑generational ("cross‑gen") programs as activities that "increase cooperation, interaction, or exchange between any two generations," citing definitions used by the National Council on Aging. Kayla said the library seeks to build family bonding, reduce isolation and promote lifelong learning by offering activities that attract both younger and older residents.
"We are here to talk ... about multi‑generational programming," Kayla said, introducing examples. Corey described a recent Senior Science Day (part of the library's 55+ Connections) co‑hosted by youth services using STEAM experiments. "It went really well," Corey said, adding that regulars enjoyed the experiments and even wanted to wear science goggles.
Staff shared turnout and logistics for recent events: an Adult Hand board‑games program drew 31 attendees across age groups; a Book Talk Bingo night used about 35 donated books from the North Liberty Library Friends so multiple attendees could go home with a title; and a Book Bedazzling program on April 10 paired teens and adults and will likely be repeated.
Looking forward, presenters previewed the summer reading kickoff as a cross‑gen event with adult‑oriented activities such as bingo ("Plant a Seed, Read" theme) and said more book bingo and specialty events are planned in the fall. They also floated one‑shot book clubs, show‑and‑tell sessions that connect generations, and quiet after‑hours reading or homework/body‑doubling nights to support people who benefit from structured quiet time.
Board members asked about prior attempts at silent book clubs and how to improve participation; staff said moving events after hours and clearer signage helped. Kayla offered to share slides and resources through the board liaison (Jenny) and asked for member feedback on future ideas.
The presentation closed with staff noting cross‑department cooperation is critical to deliver the programs with a small staff, and encouragement for the board to publicize events through word of mouth and the Friends group.
