PA Forward

Foundational skills — reading, writing, math, job-readiness, and STEM concepts.

This looks different depending on who walks through the door. Children build early reading skills at storytime or through STEAM Club; adults work toward a GED or sharpen their writing in workshops; job seekers gain practical skills through our Tech Thursday classes. Our Summer Reading Program and monthly book clubs keep reading an ongoing habit rather than a just a requirement for schooling or career building.

The ability to find, evaluate, and use information — including telling credible sources from unreliable ones.

We teach this directly, with Reference Assistance or through our Internet Safety & Misinformation class and courses on email, social media, and mobile devices. We also connect patrons with trustworthy experts through partnerships — monthly Health Booths with the PA Department of Health, and collaborations with Master Gardeners and PA MEDI, and more.

Engaging respectfully with differing viewpoints and taking part in community life.

Community lectures and themed movie screenings give people a chance to learn and discuss together. Social programs — adult crafts, board games, Cards for Seniors — build informal connection. We help residents prepare for the citizenship exam, partner with different organization to raise awareness about local concerns and resources, and offer cultural heritage programs for children throughout the year.

The ability to make informed decisions about physical, mental, or emotional health, for yourself or someone in your care.

We offer regular wellness programming, including weekly chair yoga and chair cardio and monthly chair zumba, along with guided meditation sessions. Our annual Medicare 101 class, taught with PA MEDI, helps patrons navigate a complex system, and our monthly Health Booths connect people directly with information from the PA Department of Health.

The knowledge needed to make informed decisions about budgeting, spending, and saving.

Tech Thursday classes cover financial tools and resources; our annual Financial Wellness Fair brings in the local credit union for hands-on workshops; and our partnership with AARP’s Senior Community Service Employment Program helps connect seniors with job information and support. We’ve also offered FAFSA workshops to help students and families navigate financial aid.