Wild Plum Library Memory Project

Wild Plum Memory Cafe


The Elm Grove Library is proud to be involved in a partnership of five libraries called the Wild Plum Library Memory Project. It includes Elm Grove, Menomonee Falls, Brookfield, Germantown, and Sussex. The libraries in this group offer rotating monthly memory cafes and educational programs for those concerned about memory loss. The Wild Plum Library Memory Project received its name because the late production of its fruit associates the wild plum tree with endurance and the vitality of life. 

What Is the Library Memory Project?

The Library Memory Project is a partnership between public libraries in Waukesha, Washington, and Milwaukee Counties with a mission to provide programs to those affected by memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia. A main component of the memory project is a monthly social gathering for those with early stage dementia or mild cognitive impairment and a care partner, called a Memory Cafe. The Library Memory Project has four monthly memory cafes throughout the three counties. Our hope is to create a dementia-friendly community.

What is a Memory Cafe?

A Memory Café is a social gathering for those who are experiencing early stage dementia, mild memory loss or mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and a family member or care partner. A Memory Café is a place to have fun, share experiences, and stay socially connected.

Member Libraries

The Wild Plum Memory Project

  • Brookfield Public Library
  • Elm Grove Public Library
  • Germantown Community Library
  • Menomonee Falls Public Library
  • Pauline Haass Public  Library (Sussex)

The Lake Country Libraries Memory Project

  • Delafield Public Library
  • Hartland Public Library 
  • Oconomowoc Public Library
  • Pewaukee Public Library
  • Town Hall Library

The Four Points Library Memory Project

  • Franklin Public Library
  • Hales Corners Public Library
  • Muskego Public Library
  • New Berlin Public Library

Purple Springs Memory Cafes

  • Mukwonago Public Library
  • Alice Baker Memorial Library (Eagle)

Coming Soon

January Memory Cafe / Monday, January 20, 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.  

The Beautiful World of Butterflies.  A hands on program exploring the physical characteristics and habits of butterflies.  Presented by the Wild Plum Library Memory Project, Milwaukee Public Museum and Kohl's on the Move.

May Memory Cafe / Monday, May 18, 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

Radio and TV Jingles.  Some oldies and not so oldies. Listening and active singing encouraged!  Presented by Chudnow Museum of Yesteryear.

November Memory Cafe / Monday, November 16, 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

Over the Rainbow.  Musician and storyteller Craig Siemsen will delight us with popular songs and stories from the 1930’s through the 1960‘s.  A fun and engaging show of good memories and laughter!

First time attendees - please contact the Alzheimer’s Association to RSVP at 800-272-3900. 

View a list of all upcoming Memory Cafes

Attending a Memory Cafe

Are you interested in attending? We’d love to see you. First-time attendees should contact the Alzheimer’s Association for more information or to register at 800-272-3900.

Partners

In addition to the libraries mentioned above, the Library Memory Project has been made possible with the support of the following organizations: 

  • Bridges Library System
  • Milwaukee County Federated Library System
  • Monarch Library System
  • Alzheimer’s Association of Southeastern Wisconsin
  • Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Waukesha County
  • Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Washington County
  • Bader Philanthropies, Inc.
  • The Friends of the Library organizations at all participating libraries

View more information.