Intergenerational Programs

Sew What?! sewing class

My library started two monthly inter-generational craft classes.The Adult Services Librarian and I noticed that adults were interested in tween/teen craft events and vice versa. We thought how efficient we would be if we worked together on inter-generational programs for tweens to adults. We also looked to our talented staff to help plan and host the programs.

The one craft class is focused on simple projects that can be done in an hour, like no sew t-shirt bags, using old jewelry to make new stuff, arm knitting, and mini-magical gardens. The other one is a sewing club that is great for beginners to expert.

The classes are for ages 12 to adult but children ages 9-12 are welcome with an adult helper. Attendance has been good. The craft class gets about 10-20 participants. The sewing class is usually full at 10. Both classes are a mix of parents and their tween or teen and tweens to adults with their friends.

Programmers are told to look to their community for experts. Thankfully, the library employs a few crafty and creative people. The sewing club is run by the Tech Services Librarian with a library assistant and volunteer. The craft class is run by me and the Adult Services Librarian with help from interested staff.

The classes help to bring different generations together to learn something new. The staff gets to showcase their talents and to contribute to work in new and rewarding ways.