Dacula, Georgia, is less than 40 miles away from Atlanta, but still retains the small-town, rural feel that attracts its residents. And although only about 6,000 people live in Dacula, they are counted among Gwinnett County’s 900,000-plus residents, and as such can take advantage of the county’s many resources.
For instance, Gwinnett County has a vibrant library system made up of more than a dozen branches, two of which are in Dacula, and several others of which are just a short drive away. They offer all sorts of events that are perfect for seniors who are trying to stay active and engage with one another.
Here’s a look at eight Gwinnett County Library events that you won’t want to miss.
AARP Smart Driver Workshops
You’ll learn defensive driving techniques, and ways to compensate for age-related changes in vision, hearing, and reaction time.
- Monday, May 11, Collins Hill Branch
- Thursday, May 14, Snellville Branch
- Thursday, June 3, Suwanee Branch
- Thursday, Aug. 13, Snellville Branch
Open to adults of all ages, $20 (or $15 for AARP members). Pay by cash or check. The workshop runs from 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Walking Club, Dacula Branch
This weekly walking club is a great way to socialize with other seniors while getting in some exercise. Plan for a 20-30 minute stroll on paved surfaces around the neighborhood as well as Dacula Park.
Mondays 10-10:30 a.m. Begins May 4.
Computer Basics, Five Forks Branch
For seniors who need to improve their computer skills, this class offers help on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tuesdays 2-3:30 p.m. Begins April 7.
Sewing Basics, Dacula Branch
This monthly club is great for any senior who wants to learn to sew or brush up on their sewing skills. It meets one evening a month. Check the library's calendar for details.
Storytellers Club, Dacula Branch
If you have a story to tell and need an audience, or just want to listen to someone spin a good yarn, this club meets one morning a month from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Check the library's calendar for the next date.
SLAP (Senior Library Activities & Programs), Peachtree Corners Branch
Each month, seniors meet and take part in a different activity designed just for them. Past programs have included an artist-led lesson on painting, a Zumba exercise class, and instruction on how to grow a vegetable garden.
First Thursday of each month, 1-2 p.m.
Culinary Literacy
If you like to cook and want to learn about cuisine from different parts of the world, come check out these monthly cooking demonstrations held at several different branches. Check the library's calendar for the date, time, and location for the next one.
Monthly Book Clubs
If you enjoy reading, joining a monthly book club will give you the chance to socialize with others and discuss the books you’ve read.
Several branches of the Gwinnett Library system host book clubs.
- The Book Club for Adults meets at the Dacula Branch one Thursday afternoon per month.
- HML Book Club meets at the Hamilton Mill Branch on the fourth Monday of the month.
- The Non-Fiction Book Club meets at the Five Forks Branch on the last Wednesday afternoon of every month.
To find out more about these, and many other events happening at your local branch, check out the library's calendar.
Arbor Terrace Hamilton Mill in Dacula is located less than half a mile from the Hamilton Mill branch, making it easy for residents to take advantage of all the library has to offer. The community even organizes outings to the library for residents who need transportation.
To find out more about Arbor Terrace Hamilton Mill, and the active, engaged lifestyle it provides, call 770-800-7832 to arrange a tour of the community.