Senior Connections information and referral library-based service was initiated in 1984 through a grant from the Administration on Aging to the Adelphi University School of Social Work in Garden City, New York. It's uniqueness lay in the interdisciplinary collaboration of the Adelphi University School of Social Work with the Palmer School of Library Science of C.W. Post Center, L.I. University.

Volunteers work and train together with library science and social work interns. This team of volunteers and professionals operate with Senior Connections coordinators and library staff. Senior Connections conducts a continuous educational and training program for volunteers, students and professionals.

With the cooperation of the Nassau Library System and the Nassau County Department of Senior Citizen Affairs, eight initial library sites were selected to begin the program. Additional grants from the New York State Legislature have enabled Senior Connections to expand its present services to over 30 L.I. libraries.

Senior Connections combines the information skills of the librarian, the human relations skills of the social worker and the wealth of experience of the older adult volunteer. The volunteer is an ambassador of the library. The volunteer is an advocate for senior citizen community needs. Activities of the Senior Connections volunteer are therefore integrated with the overall program and goals of the individual library.

In addition to on-site information, referral and counseling services, Senior Connections is also involved in outreach programs to isolated elderly residents and to community service providers.