Health literacy is one priority beyond books offered at the Pottstown Regional Public Library.
The library’s vast offering of programs is free and any adult who lives or works in the community is welcome to join in on getting educated on a wide array of topics ranging from diabetes to Medicare and more.
“This fall, health literacy is a focus at the library as we are happy to offer a variety of opportunities,” said Megan Bealer, adult programming coordinator at the library.
In partnership with Tower Health, the library is hosting a Diabetes Education Series every third Wednesday of the month from 6 to 7 p.m. The next meeting will be October 16th.
“Diabetes II is a growing epidemic in our society,” said Angela Brown, the library’s new executive director.
“Partnering with Tower Health will provide our community with ways to manage the disease and prevent its onset. This partnership allows Tower Health to meet the community where they are and we get to provide resources to help build Health Literacy among the community.”
A rotation of topics
The partnership with Tower Health is important for the library, because as healthcare professionals they can fill in the gaps between the resources they offer.
“The diabetes program will feature a rotation of topics related to both the prevention and management of diabetes for both individuals and their loved ones and/or caregivers,” said Bealer.
The library is also bringing yoga back, instructed by the Isha Foundation, on Wednesday, Oct. 30, at 6 pm. The class is approximately one hour.
“Yoga is a great way to destress after a long day at work. It also helps with sleep and overall health,” said Brown. “Having it at the library allows our community the opportunity to try something new or meet with friends for a nice time together.”
Beginner–friendly yoga
The one-time yoga offering is beginner-friendly.
“We want our patrons to be able to try or experience the benefits of yoga instruction without having to pay for a class,” Bealer said.
For retirees, you should mark Sept. 24, Oct. 8, Oct. 22, and Dec. 10 on your calendar for 6 p.m. to attend the Boomers’ Retirement Roadmap series, presented by John Crowley at Stonehenge Advisors. He will touch upon many aspects of retirement, including healthcare, such as Medicare planning.
“As a person on the boomer cusp, I hope this series offers them some peace of mind,” said Brown. “There are resources out here that will help them navigate these new chapters and we as a library want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to use these resources.”
Retirement planning
Bealer said the offering is aimed to address how complex and confusing healthcare and retirement planning can be for many individuals.
“We want to be able to provide the resources necessary for our patrons to make informed and empowered decisions about their own healthcare,” she said.
Separate Medicare informational programs will take place Monday, Nov. 4, at 4:30 p.m., and another on Saturday, Nov. 16, at 11 a.m.
Pottstown Regional Public Library is located at 500 E. High St., Pottstown. For additional information, contact Megan Bealer at [email protected] or phone 610-970-6551 ext. 102 to sign up and ask any questions.
