Empowering Libraries, Enriching Lives

Building the Movement, One Program at a Time

Since the project began in October 2022, the response has been extraordinary. By the end of 2024, 17 library systems across Missouri and Wyoming will have implemented 29 creative aging programs—with many more to come. From drawing and memoir-writing to ukulele classes and dance workshops, these programs are vibrant examples of what happens when art, social connection, and learning come together.

Why Libraries? Libraries are trusted, accessible spaces that bring people together. Through this initiative, libraries are reimagining what it means to serve older adults, offering opportunities to create, learn, and thrive. The response has been clear: demand for creative aging programs is sky-high, with many libraries running waitlists to accommodate eager participants.

Creativity That Changes Lives

The early impact on participants has been nothing short of inspiring. Surveys reveal a 93% improvement in creative expression and an impressive 86% boost in confidence among older adults. Perhaps most powerfully, 71% of participants report forming new or stronger relationships—a key antidote to the social isolation that many older adults face.

Here’s what participants are saying:

“This class allowed me time to be creative, to relax, and to feel at peace. It got me out of the house and kept me moving when I didn’t want to. Thank you.”

“I renewed an old friendship with someone I hadn’t seen in 20 years.”

Whether it’s strengthening artistic skills, building confidence, or simply finding joy through shared experience, creative aging programs are delivering on their promise to improve quality of life.

A Catalyst for Libraries and Communities

For the library workers themselves, this project is both a professional development opportunity and a chance to reimagine the role of libraries. Through hands-on trainings and ongoing technical support from Lifetime Arts, library staff are building skills to design and sustain high-quality programs. Many libraries are now expanding these strategies to other age groups and programming areas, seeing firsthand how sequential, social learning strengthens communities.

Importantly, the project is shifting attitudes—both within libraries and among community members—about what older adults are capable of. One librarian noted:

“Our culminating event changed how people see older adults. They were surprised by the talent ‘hidden in our community.’”

Growing Momentum for Creative Aging

While the results so far are cause for celebration, this is just the beginning. By empowering state libraries to champion creative aging, this project is creating a foundation for long-term impact. In Missouri, creative aging is on its way to becoming as essential as youth summer reading programs, supported by new leaders like Merideth Johnson, Adult Services Consultant. In Wyoming, library leaders are forging partnerships with the Wyoming Arts Council to ensure creative aging continues to thrive.

The Advancing Creative Aging Through State Library Leadership project demonstrates what’s possible when we work together to challenge stereotypes, build connections, and promote lifelong learning. Through this work, we’re not just filling libraries with art supplies or music notes; we’re filling lives with purpose, joy, and creativity.

We’re proud of what’s been accomplished so far—and excited for what’s ahead. Stay tuned as we continue to share the stories, successes, and lessons that are building a creative aging movement, one library at a time.Want to learn more about bringing creative aging to your community? Explore our Creative Aging Foundations Toolkit and join us in this journey to transform aging through the arts.