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Substance use and overdose in Pennsylvania libraries, 2019

Feuerstein-Simon, R.; Lowenstein, M.; Szapary, C.; Torres, O.; Dolan, A. R.; Jalloh, A.; Meisel, Z. F.; Cannuscio, C. C.

2024-01-04 public and global health
10.1101/2024.01.03.24300786 medRxiv
Show abstract

This study examines the implementation of naloxone distribution initiatives in Pennsylvania public libraries following a nationwide program offering free Narcan. We conducted a cross-sectional telephone survey with a random sample of Pennsylvania public libraries (n=352). Overall, nearly one-quarter of respondents reported stocking naloxone (23.9%), and over one in ten libraries reported a previous on-site overdose (11.9%). Nearly 30% of respondents had received naloxone training. Significant predictors of on-site overdoses included the librarys county urbanization status and higher county-level overdose mortality rates. Among libraries that stocked naloxone, 73% obtained the medication from local health departments or community-based organizations. This study underscores the role of public libraries in opioid overdose crisis response and the need for tailored strategies to enhance naloxone accessibility, especially in high-risk urban areas. Collaboration between libraries, public health entities, and pharmaceutical companies is crucial to amplify naloxone distribution efforts and address the escalating opioid overdose crisis.

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