Tools and Strategies for Supporting Patrons Living with Dementia: Strengthening Age-Friendly Library Services
This guide is a practical reference for library staff who serve patrons living with dementia and the people who care for them. Each section stands on its own, so you can start anywhere and use what fits your library. It also works as a companion to the Dementia-Friendly Library training modules .
Guide Sections
Why This Guide Matters
Learn how dementia-friendly practices can help libraries better serve all patrons.
Read section →Training, Communication & Understanding Dementia
Learn how understanding dementia and using effective communication strategies can help staff better support patrons and create positive interactions.
Read section →Creating a Dementia-Friendly Environment
Learn how thoughtful changes to the library environment can improve safety, comfort, and accessibility for people living with dementia.
Read section →Dementia-Friendly Resources
Explore dementia-friendly resources that support meaningful engagement for people living with dementia and provide helpful information for their care partners.
Read section →Community Programs & Partnerships
Learn how to choose, host and support dementia-friendly programs.
Read section →2025 Florida Public Library Survey Results
Findings from the statewide survey of Florida library professionals on dementia-friendly practices and implementation challenges.
Read section →Glossary & References
Find definitions of key terms and references for the resources and information included throughout the guide.
Read section →Acknowledgements & Dedication
Learn about the people who contributed to this guide and the individuals and partners who inspired and supported its development.
Read section →Printable Resources
Download checklists and reference materials from this guide. Print them for staff training, post them in staff areas, or share them with colleagues.
Read section →Dementia-Friendly Library Training Modules
Build dementia-friendly knowledge and skills through interactive activities and real-world library scenarios. Each module takes less than 15 minutes and can be completed on its own or as part of the full series to enhance professional development, team building, and new staff training.
Understanding Dementia
Learn the basics of dementia, including signs and symptoms that may appear in a library setting, and strategies to support communication.
Open module in REACH LMS →Communicating Effectively with Patrons Living with Dementia and Care Partners
Learn practical communication strategies to support positive, respectful interactions with patrons living with dementia and their care partners.
Open module in REACH LMS →Creating a Dementia-Friendly Library Environment
Explore how the physical and social spaces of a library shape the experience of patrons living with dementia and those that care for them. Learn practical tips for creating dementia-friendly environments.
Open module in REACH LMS →Dementia-Friendly Resources and Programs
Learn practical ways libraries can support people living with dementia and their care partners through books, resources, memory kits, community partnerships, presentations, and programs.
Open module in REACH LMS →