Healthy Living at the Library: Programs for All Ages

Lenstra, who heads up the Let’s Move initiative at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro, offers a straightforward road map for librarians who want to develop programs and partnerships related to healthy living. Chapters describe how to start, run, and sustain wellness programs, such as walking book clubs, fitness bingo, and dance classes. The author also explores how to create spaces and collections on wellness, as well as programs related to cooking and emotional health. Lenstra highlights activities that will attract participants in any size or type of library, including school and academic institutions. Central to these programs is health equity, or the realization that socioeconomic status and privilege play a huge role in health. The book spotlights free programs, as well as those sponsored by outside groups, and addresses practical considerations, including funding, strategic plans, needs assessment, and patron satisfaction. A sample waiver of liability is included in an appendix.