Creating Meaningful Connections Through Memory Cafés
The 2026 Public Library Association conference featured many excellent sessions focused on programming and community engagement, but one that especially resonated with me was “Memory Cafés in Libraries: Creating Meaningful Connections,” presented by Christina M. Johnson, Allan M. Kleiman, and Susan H. McFadden.
Before attending this session, I had heard of Memory Cafés but did not fully understand what they were, who they served, or how they could be integrated into library programming. By the end of the hour, I felt equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to successfully bring this type of program to my own library.
The library where I work is within walking distance of two senior living apartment buildings, and our community of 16,000 is also home to several assisted living facilities. Older adults often make up the majority of attendees at our programs, so as the staff member responsible for adult programming, I attended PLA hoping to learn about meaningful services for this audience.
The session began by defining the core audience for a Memory Café: people living with dementia, whether formally diagnosed or not, their caregivers, and volunteers interested in learning more. The presenters emphasized the importance of clearly communicating this audience in promotional materials. Christina M. Johnson shared that some patrons attended her first Memory Café believing it was a program focused on improving memory, an early lesson in the importance of clear messaging.
Johnson also shared practical insights into how she structures her Memory Café, including what worked well and what she would do differently. Hearing these real-world lessons was especially valuable because it gave me a clearer sense of how to build a successful program from the start.
Susan H. McFadden discussed her work creating the Fox Valley Memory Project, describing how visits to Memory Cafés in the United Kingdom helped shape the model she later brought to local libraries. I was delighted to learn that McFadden is based in my hometown, and I look forward to visiting a Memory Café there the next time I return.
Beyond explaining what makes a Memory Café successful, the presenters highlighted excellent free resources for libraries interested in starting their own programs. The Memory Café Alliance offers valuable tools, including a Memory Café directory and free trainings such as Starting and Sustaining a Memory Café, What Café Leaders and Volunteers Need to Know About Dementia, and Creative Programming for Memory Cafés.
The message that stayed with me most was simple but powerful: approach Memory Café programming with empathy. Johnson shared a quote that deeply resonated with me: “People don’t remember what you said, but how you made them feel.”
That sentiment applies to all library programming, but it feels especially important when serving patrons living with dementia. Creating welcoming, compassionate spaces can have a profound impact on both participants and caregivers.
After attending this session and exploring the resources from the Memory Café Alliance, I feel ready and well supported to start a Memory Café at my own library. More importantly, I came away with a renewed understanding that meaningful programming begins not with logistics, but with connection, empathy, and care.
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