Dick Levinson joined the Free Library of Philadelphia about 15 years ago as a Community Relations Specialist. He was the first employee of Central Senior Services, working part-time and producing compelling public programs for seniors, which remains a key part of his mission.

Having hosted so many lauded and interesting programs, we wanted to catch up with Dick to learn more about his process and what's coming up for Senior Services at the Library. Below is an interview with Dick Levinson:

You have become an older adult along with your audience. At age 72, you must have some insights into the aging process. What are they?

Most young people don’t understand the aging process. How could they? They think of growing older as a process of disability and loss. In their view, it’s all about decline and the loss of skills and abilities that you once had. What about all the musicians, writers, and artists who are still making important contributions in their 80s and 90s? As you grow older, the marginal parts of your personality fall away, and you become a more intense version of your core self. You also learn not to sweat the small stuff. When I was in my 20s, I wanted everyone to like me. At this age, I simply accept that some will, some won’t, and I don’t worry about it.

What is the key to successful public programs for older adults?

Let me respond with a question. Would you want to have the same dinner every evening? I think that variety is the key. Our audience loves music, they are passionate about American and Philadelphia history, take a serious interest in politics, and are curious about almost everything. Diversity is key. We never offer the same program twice. We strive to surprise our audience.

You mentioned "out of the box" programs that take people by surprise. Are there programs coming soon that may interest audiences?

On Wednesday, July 16, at 11:00 a.m., I’ll be interviewing Mark Thundercloud, a retired FBI Hostage Negotiator, about his life and career. That should be a fascinating program and different from what we have offered in the past. Anyone who wishes to hear this program can register online. On Friday, July 25, at 11:00 a.m., we are presenting a program on a historical figure who is simultaneously one of the best-known and among the most obscure figures in human history. Our program is called “Who Was Pontius Pilate?” In Eastern Christianity, he is a revered figure, while Christians in the West tend to view him differently. During this program, we’ll explore this complex figure. And on Friday, October 17, at 11:00 a.m., we’ll be offering a program called “Dinosaurs: Animal History Before Human Beings (and After),” a program which may change how some of us view animals.

Since you’ve been working at this for 15 years, you must have done several hundred programs. Do you have a favorite?

Yes! I’m as starstruck as anyone else. My favorite program is an interview that I did with Juliet Stevenson, one of the greatest British actresses working today. She can do, and has done, everything — theater, film, radio, and voice acting. I think that what she says both about her career and the challenges of acting on stage with some of the most respected actors in the world is fascinating! You can revisit this program on our YouTube channel.