Memory Café at the Lopez Library on June 11th at 2pm

Submitted by the Lopez Island Library

Take a trip down memory lane with Memory Café at the Lopez Library. On the second Monday of the Month at 2 p.m., the library transforms its meeting room into a bustling café with treats and coffee. Musicians play music from the ‘40s, ‘50s, ‘60s and beyond with lyrics projected on the wall. Sing along, share memories, talk and laugh together.

The first Memory Café was developed in the Netherlands in 1997 to support people living with dementia, and it has spread to communities across the globe. Music evokes emotions that bring up strong memories, and studies show that musical aptitude and appreciation are some of the last remaining abilities in dementia patients. Plus, singing along is just plain fun!

At any age, music can shift mood, manage stress and stimulate positive interactions. The Lopez Library’s Memory Café is open to anyone who wants to enjoy a daytime concert with friends — parents with young children, retirees, workers on their lunch break, grandparents with visiting family, and people with memory issues and their care partners.

Our first Memory Café in May featured Libby Valluzzi on fiddle and guitar. Our June 11 Memory Café will feature Gretchen Wing on guitar. Every month will be a new musician. Come and join the fun!

Borrow the 2014 film “Alive Inside” from the Lopez Library or find the trailer on YouTube to see the healing magic of music.