AARP Hearing Center
AARP Livable Communities Map
Emmett Public Library (2022) Print
2022 AARP Community Challenge Grantee
Project Category
Public places
└ Accessibility of amenities
└ Accessibility of amenities
To overcome limited hours and curbside-only service, the library installed a remote locker system and built a service patio with benches, giving patrons 24/7 access to reserved materials and a place to sit and use Wi-Fi. The project boosted library use and inspired plans for similar units in new housing developments. One older neighbor now visits anytime her helper is available, saying she appreciates having a space to hang out as well as get her library requests from the locker.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Photo Gallery
Image:
Click on a photo to learn more
See More Projects Like This One
Farmington, CT
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: This project will enhance accessibility in a senior center and community parks by adding features like push button door openers, accessible kiosks, and specialized equipment.
Kansas City, KS
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2024
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: Kansas City lacked seating in parks, bus stops and social service areas, leaving older adults without safe places to rest during long waits or walks. Deferred maintenance and concentrated development deepened this gap, especially in Justice40 neighborhoods. The project installed 12 benches, including buddy benches, at six parks across five neighborhoods, adding concrete pads and memorial plaques for durability. These benches improve comfort, accessibility and community connectedness while advancing the city's Community for All Ages initiative. "It may seem like a small thing... but many of our public spaces do not have places for people to sit," said one of the project planners.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Providence, RI
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Accessibility of amenities
Description: Community Libraries of Providence addressed a safety gap that kept some neighbors from participating in outdoor library programs. At Knight Memorial Library, the ramp and stairs leading to the lawn lacked secure handrails, making access stressful for older adults using canes, walkers or wheelchairs. The project installed new handrails along both sides of the accessible ramp and repaired the handrail on the street staircase, building on earlier accessibility improvements. A patron wrote that she had stopped attending evening Spanish classes because she was afraid of the stairs. The improvements reopened outdoor programs to neighbors with limited mobility and advanced the library's longer-term accessibility goals.
Project description was created using generative AI and then reviewed for accuracy.
Nearby AARP Community Challenge Projects
Emmett, ID
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2025
Project Category: Transportation Other
Description: This project will widen sidewalks and install head-out angled parking in historic downtown Emmett. These upgrades will enhance safety and walkability, benefiting older adults and strengthening the local economy.
Ada County, ID
AARP Community Challenge Grant Year: 2021
Project Category: Expansion and enhancement of transportation options
Description: Ada County lacks transportation options for many of its residents. To help local employers provide transportation for their employees, the Ada County Highway Department expanded its Commuteride program, which provides grants to small organizations and businesses -- many of whom are nonprofits or working directly with underserved populations -- to provide facility or mobility enhancements. The program provided shared bikes, bike racks, employee transit passes, bike repair stations, bike helmets, telework resources and breakroom amenities such as lockers and showers.
LEARN MORE AND STAY INFORMED
Find articles and resources about making communities more livable for people of all ages
Download or order free publications from AARP Livable Communities
Sign up for the free, weekly, award-winning AARP Livable Communities eNewsletter
Don't see your community listed?
LEARN HOW IT CAN JOIN THE NETWORKConnect with your AARP State Office
AARP has offices in all 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP Idaho State Office
250 S. 5th Street
Suite 800
Boise, ID 83702
United States