TOWSON, MD—The Baltimore County Public Library, in partnership with the Baltimore County Department of Health, has announced it will offer free naloxone at all 19 of its branches. The medication, which can rapidly reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, will be available in receptacles for public access.
The initiative is part of an ongoing effort to combat the opioid epidemic and will be in place ahead of National Recovery Month in September. The library’s partnership with the health department aims to increase the accessibility of the life-saving medication and reduce the stigma associated with substance use.
“Ensuring that every resident can access lifesaving medication is a priority for Baltimore County, and we’re proud to continue working with our partners to prevent overdoses in every community,” said Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier.
In July, library managers and staff received training on how to recognize the signs of an overdose and the importance of calling emergency services. The naloxone receptacles, which vary in style by branch, have been installed and stocked.
Dr. Lucy Wilson, Baltimore County Health Officer, praised the effort as a “shining example of partnership” that will enhance the county’s multi-pronged drug overdose prevention efforts.
Baltimore County Public Library CEO Sonia Alcántara-Antoine said the library is committed to “meeting people where they are and providing resources that can truly save lives.”
Funding for the receptacles was provided through the American Rescue Plan Act and the Maryland Office of Overdose Response. The initial supply of naloxone is funded by the CDC Overdose Data to Action cooperative agreement, with ongoing supplies maintained through the Maryland Department of Health’s Overdose Response Program.
Baltimore County residents and families struggling with substance use can call the Baltimore County Department of Health’s REACH helpline at 410-88-REACH (410-887-3224) for referrals and resources.
