The NIU Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI) developed a variety of programs that offer information without the hassle of homework, credits or grades.

The LLI, open to anyone 55 years and older, is a volunteer organization funded by its members. An affiliate of the Elderhostel program, located in Boston, Mass., the LLI provides its current 200 members with study groups, lectures and workshops, said Katherine Wright, director of external programming for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

LLI was derived from the idea of the Elderhostel program four years ago, Wright said. The program brought many seniors from various locations to NIU for programs and lectures. LLI was created as an NIU chapter as well as an easy commute for members in and around DeKalb, Wright said.

Programs are offered in four seasonally-based terms. Field trips have also been scheduled this year to places like Mexico and Vietnam, Wright said.

In addition to organizing programs, the LLI is also working on ways to promote the institution. About a week ago, Matt Holdren, a graduate student in the department of communication, began working on a promotional video for LLI, including graphics, stills and other footage. The video will be about 10 minutes long and completed in May 2005, said Laura Vazquez, assistant professor in the department of communication.

More information on the content of the video will be discussed by members at 11 a.m. on Feb. 7 in the Holmes Student Center.

The LLI is not exclusive to senior citizens. Weekly “Brown Bag” lectures are open to the public, Wright said. All who are interested can bring a lunch to listen to the lectures, free of charge.

“We try to bring in a professor who has a field that connects to the study group topic,” Wright said.

In celebration of Valentine’s Day, LLI invited Stephen Franklin, an assistant to the dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and adjunct professor in the English department, will speak on “The Poetry of Love,” one of the courses he teaches.

“What I’m planning on doing is reading a selection of poems dealing with love from antiquity to the present, and across cultures and traditions,” Franklin said. “I’m doing this in order to expand and enhance our appreciation of the multifarious feature of love.”

“The Poetry of Love,” open to all at no cost, will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Feb. 9 in the HSC, Room 5.