• The Brain Center at APL

    The Brain Center at Alpha Park Public Library was paid for by the Stephen T. Riedner Grant for Life Enhancing Library Programs for People Living with Dementia.

    The grant was established in memory of Stephen T. Riedner by his wife, Mary Beth Riedner, and his sister-in law and brother-in-law, Jane and John Gallick.

    • During his ten-year journey through a young-onset dementia, Steve's strong spirit was always an inspiration. He was determined to maintain his identity, dignity and independence for as long as possible. He demonstrated by his example that people living with dementia deserve the same respect and consideration as every other human being.

    Motivated by his courage, his wife Mary Beth, a retired librarian, began to encourage libraries to expand their services to these often stigmatized and neglected people. She is also the founder of “Tales & Travel Memories” and “Tales & Travel Adventures” which are interactive book and reading programs for people living with dementia. She has presented at many conferences and has written several journal articles and book chapters. Making libraries, and our society as a whole, more dementia friendly has become her passion.

  • What resources can be found in the Brain Center at APL?

    The Brain Center at APL is designed for patrons with Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Traumatic Brain Injury, and other neurodivergent conditions. We have resources including, but not limited to:

    • Pamphlets
    • Books
    • Robotic Therapy Pets
    • Puzzles
    • Games and Activities
    • Caretaker Guides

    In the future, APL will also be hosting a caretakers’ support group. For more information on this or any of the resources available in the Brain Center, please contact our Outreach Office at: 309-697-3822 x25