Public Libraries Respond to the Opioid Crisis with Their Communities
As the impact of the opioid epidemic is felt in communities across the US, public libraries are choosing to be part of the community response. With funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and in partnership with the Public Library Association (PLA), OCLC is sharing knowledge and resources that will help public libraries and their community partners develop effective strategies to address the opioid epidemic in America.
Call to Action Report
OCLC has partnered with the Public Library Association (PLA) to issue Call to Action: Public Libraries and the Opioid Crisis, a report that offers strategies for public libraries to consider as they determine a local response to the nationwide opioid crisis. This is the culminating output from the IMLS-funded project Public Libraries Respond to the Opioid Crisis with Their Communities.
As the impact of the opioid epidemic is felt in communities across the U.S., public libraries are engaging in community responses. For many libraries, however, the new and urgent demand created by this public health crisis is paired with uncertainty on how best to address local needs in this area.
This Call to Action guide provides options, ideas, and resources to support libraries as they develop response strategies, and encourages libraries to:
- Evaluate local health data
- Seek community partners
- Educate staff and community members on the issue
- Consider the need for staff care
- Offer programs and services that support local needs.
Together, we can make a positive difference in improving outcomes for our communities. Learn more at oc.lc/libraries-opioid-crisis.
Suggested citation:
Allen, Scott G., Larra Clark, Michele Coleman, Lynn Silipigni Connaway, Chris Cyr, Kendra Morgan, and Mercy Procaccini. 2020. Call to Action: Public Libraries and the Opioid Crisis. Dublin, OH: OCLC. https://doi.org/10.25333/w8sg-8440.
The program is made possible by support from OCLC and the Public Library Association and through a National Leadership Grant (project number LG-00-18-0298-18) from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
