Social Library, Financial Literacy Edition
In conjunction with our WebJunction webinar, Libraries Help Patrons Become Financially Empowered Consumers, we bring you a special edition of the Social Library featuring Facebook posts from libraries who are providing services and hosting programs to support community financial needs. The programs include workshops for women and teens, lunch time information fairs, a month-long series, and ongoing financial coaching. We hope you'll join us for next week's webinar to learn more about the resources made available to libraries through the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau, and to hear from two libraries growing financial literacy in their communities.
- Tiverton Library Services in Rhode Island recently hosted an evening event, Take Control of Your Financial Future - 5 Questions for Women, with local financial advisors. The free session addressed the unique considerations women have when it comes to long-term financial goals. "For instance, because of a woman's average longer life span, your needs may be significantly different from those of your spouse or others."
- Gilpin County Public Library in Colorado is one of thirteen libraries in the state selected to participate in Common Cents for Colorado. "Studies have shown that taking time once a year to consider personal financial goals is a "must-do" task in the creation of financial security. The Common Cents for Colorado program gives participants the chance to do just that - reviewing classic, time-tested methods for building a solid financial future. In addition, cold weather and less hours of sunlight give more "desk time" to complete any needed tasks. The upcoming tax season always requires a review of last year’s records anyway, so get a head start with these classes. It’s a great time for good intentions – bringing some new order and productivity to your financial life." The five one-hour classes cover these financial topics:
- Goal Setting and Financial Planning
- Key Investment Concepts
- Retirement Saving Vehicles
- Common Investment Types
- Managing Money During Retirement
The program is made possible by a grant from FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Foundation) through SmartInvesting@yourlibrary®, a partnership with the American Library Association. - Temecula Public Library in California hosted a teen program, College Prep: Financial Aid & Student Loans, presented by a representative from a local financial institution. "You aced your exams, got a great SAT score, filled out multiple college apps, and perfected your personal essay. Acceptance to your dream college is in sight. But how will you pay for textbooks, the dorm, a meal plan, and tuition?" Attendees received helpful information about financial aid and student loans.
- Georgetown County Library in South Carolina is hosting four Lunch Money Mini Fairs during the month of February, one at each of their branches. "Visit booths with financial experts who can give you information and answer your questions one on one. Learn to save, invest, buy with confidence, understand your credit report, talk to kids about money and more. Lunch and giveaways included!"
- Queens Library in New York shared a post about their free Financial Coaching service. The program is provided in partnership with the Financial Coaching Corps of the Community Service Society, an organization fighting poverty in New York. Individuals can make an appointment to speak with a financial coach on various topics. "A financial coach can help you develop the skills you need to manage money and gain financial stability. Learn new skills such as knowing how to access, review, and understand your credit report."
Thank you to all these libraries for their great work, and if you'd like to see your library featured in future Social Library editions, please let us know via [email protected] or find us on Facebook.