The Clymer Library in Pocono Pines is putting a $4,000 grant it received last year to good use. The grant came from the Federal Library Services and Technology Act through the Pennsylvania’s Office of Commonwealth Libraries. So what have they spent that money on? A Wii to get seniors engaged and active, among other things like large print books, extra seating and more comfortable furniture.
These items are part of the library's "Savvy Senior Space," which gives the elderly a reason to spend time at the library. At first the library's board members were not convinced that this was a good use of grant money - until one if its senior members, 71 year old Don Pitzer, tried out the Wii system for himself.
"I couldn't quite visualize what they had in mind at first," Pitzer said. "But now I can see it's a good idea. A lot of seniors are too sedentary. Maybe with games like bowling or tennis, they'd be interested in this."
While the Wii system is meant for seniors, it will be available for the general public to try out when the oldsters are not using it, according to the library. The whole idea of this is to help seniors stay active during months when activities are limited, like in the fall and winter time.The library, seeing a growing senior population, is doing its part to help oldsters get out and get active - and maybe read a book or two while they are at it.
The Wii will be available to the senior community every other Monday from 1 to 3 p.m. starting today, according to the library - though I would imagine that they will have to expand those hours once the elderly population realizes the wonders of playing video games.
Source: Clymer Library
