Think of literacy and the Bradford Area Public Library, and what comes to mind?
Reading? Researching? Learning?
Starting next month, the public library on West Washington Street will host a financial literacy program on maximizing one’s Social Security benefits, all in an effort for the facility to expand its adult programming.
The event, held by Ameriprise Financial Services Inc. of Bradford, is scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 7.
“Financial literacy is often overlooked, so we’ll be doing a monthly series of lunch and learn financial literacy programs, with future topics including how extended care costs can impact retirement plans, protecting yourself against identity theft, saving for retirement, and estate planning,” said Bradford Area Public Library Executive Director Lacey Love on Monday.
Financial literacy is essential to the well-being at every stage of life, said Ameriprise Financial Services Inc. Financial Advisor Miranda Collingwood, who will be teaching at the event. The earlier an individual is exposed to financial literacy, better decisions can be made throughout one’s life, she said.
“This complimentary seminar will explain what you need to know about whether Social Security can provide the income you need when you retire, how to make the most of your Social Security benefits, and sources of retirement income beyond Social Security,” Love said.
Love called the event a vital resource to be offered to the community.
“With all of the changes and uncertainty in the economy today we at Ameriprise were looking for a way to communicate with the public to provide information that would help individuals make sound financial decisions and feel comfortable doing so,” Collingwood said. “We feel that it is part of our social responsibility to the community to educate and inform. With this effort we felt that the Bradford library would be a good partner.”
Everyone at Ameriprise Financial has his or her own area of concentration, Collingwood said. For Collingwood, her focus is on education, and she said she enjoys sharing that with the community.
“Over the past 10 years I have made education a large part of my financial services practice,” Collingwood said. “Having presented over 150 educational financial workshops I know firsthand how beneficial they can be to individuals.
“Having recently returned to the area I have been looking for ways to become more involved in the community,” Collingwood added. “Being able to combine my passion for lifetime learning and financial education while supporting the initiatives of our public library is a wonderful opportunity.”
A light lunch will be provided at the event.
Space is limited, so those interested in attending should reserve their spaces by Friday by calling 814-368-9160.
