After receiving the Next Library Changemaker Award, Athens Comics Library has been moving forward with an ambitious and deeply community-rooted project that explores how libraries can support well-being through creativity — across generations.
From children’s creativity to senior well-being
Athens Comics Library is expanding its successful Takeaway Art Packs model, originally developed to support children’s emotional expression through storytelling and crafts. The next step brings this creative approach to older adults, including seniors living in care homes.
This new initiative is rooted in cultural prescribing and recognises that creativity and storytelling have the power to support emotional well-being, cognitive stimulation, and social connection at every stage of life.
What the new pilot will explore
The adapted Takeaway Art Packs are being developed with a focus on:
- Cognitive stimulation
- Emotional well-being
- Social engagement
Activities will be carefully tailored to different abilities and interests among older adults. As part of the pilot, the project will also train care home staff and caregivers to deliver creative interventions using a community-led, identity-informed, and trauma-sensitive approach grounded in arts and culture.
The long-term ambition is to develop a replicable model for integrating cultural prescribing into elder care — and to demonstrate how libraries can act as vital community hubs for senior wellness and engagement.
Current status: Research and assessment
The project team is currently finalising the research and assessment phase. As part of this process, Athens Comics Library is reaching out to the the library community to gather insights, experiences, and inspiration.
Do you work with older community members in your library?
Your input is very welcome and will be included — and credited — in the new project “Takeaway Art Packs for Older People”.
Contribute your experience to the project
If you would like to hear more about the project or discuss ideas, you can also get in touch directly: dina.ntziora@gmail.com / ltsene@gmail.com
