OCEAN COUNTY – Home to more than 200,000 senior residents, Ocean County continues to ensure older adults have access to services that support independence, engagement and quality of life.

The Ocean County Library and the Ocean County Office of Senior Services have received national recognition from the Public Library Association for their collaborative programs serving older adults.

The recognition highlights the County's ongoing efforts to coordinate services and expand community-based programming for seniors, who make up nearly a quarter of the population.

The partnership connects residents with information, support services and enrichment opportunities through programs offered at library branches across the county. By working together, the departments aim to improve accessibility, strengthen community connections and enhance quality of life for older adults.

"With nearly 24 percent of Ocean County's population made up of older adults, we have a responsibility to ensure services are coordinated, accessible and responsive to their needs," said Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, liaison to the Office of Senior Services. "This recognition reflects our ongoing effort to connect residents with meaningful programs that support independence, engagement and quality of life."

Ocean County Commissioner Deputy Director Jennifier Bacchione, liaison to the Ocean County Library, said the collaboration underscores the role libraries play as community hubs.

"Our libraries serve as welcoming community centers for residents of all ages, and through collaboration, they allow us to better connect people with the services they need," said Bacchione. "We are proud of the work being done to strengthen these connections and better serve Ocean County's senior population."

Maria La Face, Director of the Ocean County Office of Senior Services, said the recognition affirms the value of partnerships that bring services directly into local communities.

"This recognition affirms the importance of partnerships that ensure older adults remain informed, engaged and supported throughout Ocean County," La Face said.

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners congratulates the Library and Office of Senior Services for this well-deserved recognition. Through this collaboration, seniors across the county can stay connected, informed and active in their communities.

Residents can learn more about programs offered through the Ocean County Library by visiting theoceancountylibrary.org or contacting their local library branch. For more information about the Ocean County Office of Senior Services, visit co.ocean.nj.us/OC/SeniorServices/ or call 732-929-2091.