BROWARD COUNTY, FL - Broward County Library welcomes adults ages 50 and over to the new Library Living Room program, beginning  on June 5th at Northwest Regional Library, 3151 N University Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33065, 954-357-7990. All programs will take place from 11AM-Noon.

In an effort to bring people together socially, the library is converting its former computer center into an actual living room, with comfortable seating, game tables and other features designed to promote community interaction. The Library Living Room program was inspired by research commissioned in 2021 by healthcare provider Cigna Group that found that more than half of the adults in America (58%) experience loneliness.

"A major feature of the Library Living Room program is fostering community through fun conversations about books, current events, game play and library technology," explains John Hunter, Community Library Manager Senior at the Northwest Regional Library. "The public library is one of the last places where people are free to visit and spend time in a shared community space without having to buy something."

Broward County Library Director Allison Grubbs sees the need for such programming and feels it will be successful. "We pride ourselves on our libraries being warm, friendly places," says Ms. Grubbs. "I am very pleased to see an area dedicated to ongoing social interaction between customers in a venue that is free, safe and enjoyable." 

Attendees can look forward to stimulating conversation, community connection and increased familiarity with library collections and service. Coffee and cookies, provided by the Friends of the Northwest Regional Library, will be served. 

Library Living Room weekly scheduled events include:

• Game Day: Play puzzles, crosswords and Sudoku, alone or with friends -  1st and 3rd Mondays (11AM-Noon)
• Book Bites Book Discussion: Share your recent reads and learn about new titles - 1st and 3rd Wednesdays (11AM-Noon)
• Hot Topics Discussion: Fun and lively librarian-led discussion group - 2nd and 4th Tuesdays (11AM-Noon)
• Tech Triage: Bring your device for help with apps, social media, eBooks and more -  2nd and 4th Thursdays (11AM-Noon)

All programs are free, and registration is not required. For additional information, contact John Hunter at 954-357-8045 or johhunter@broward.org.