Mono County Free Libraries Launches ‘Libraries with Heart’ Offering Free Blood Pressure Tools And More to Patrons

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mono County Free Libraries Launches ‘Libraries with Heart’ Offering Free Blood Pressure Tools And More to Patrons

[Mammoth Lakes, CA] — Patrons across Mono County now have access to blood pressure machines to manage a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke. These resources are available as part of “Libraries with Heart,” supported by the American Heart Association and devoted to a healthier future for all. Mono County Free Libraries have three in-library use blood pressure machines branches in Mammoth Lakes, Bridgeport, and Coleville. Additionally, all library card holders also have the option to check out blood pressure monitoring kits for at-home measurement the same way they check out a book. These kits are available now at all seven branch locations.

“We are proud to bring these resources and materials to Mono County,” said Josef Bopp, Director of Libraries. “Access to health information and tools is vital, especially considering the ratio of patients to primary care physicians in our county stands at 1,440 to 1. The ‘Libraries with Heart’ program also supported significant additions to our collections of health-focused books, which helps close that gap by giving residents a trusted, free place to turn to for reliable health information.”

Mono County Free Libraries joins this statewide effort to bring accessible, free heart-health resources directly to the communities it serves. Residents can visit their local branch to learn more about blood pressure monitoring, borrow a kit, and connect with educational materials from the American Heart Association. The ‘Libraries with Heart’ program can be found in counties serving rural California residents, including Mono County. Visit https://www.heart.org/en/affiliates/california/california-libraries-with-heart to see exact locations.

“Libraries are a trusted source of information in rural communities across California,” said Rebecca Wendt, Deputy State Librarian with the California State Library. “Because high blood pressure is a major health concern, people can now access tools and information that support heart health through rural libraries across the state. Participating libraries provide access to blood pressure cuffs, along with American Heart Association resources that explain how to measure blood pressure correctly, understand readings, and connect with local care providers for follow-up care.”

High blood pressure is known as the silent killer because usually it has no symptoms. The only way to know if someone has high blood pressure is to get it checked, according to the American Heart Association. Almost half of U.S. adults — 47.3% — have high blood pressure, increasing their risk for heart attack, stroke or kidney disease. These poor health outcomes can potentially be avoided if high blood pressure is managed. Unfortunately, many people are not even aware that their blood pressure is elevated, and the use of a blood pressure monitor might be difficult because of cost or lack of access. Libraries with Heart aims to improve the health of local communities by making these resources readily available for free for those who need them.

“Managing blood pressure should feel simple and within reach for everyone,” said Alan Shatzel, Jr., DO, MBA, FAASM, American Heart Association volunteer medical expert and Western States Board of Directors President Elect. “Libraries with Heart connects Californians to essential health tools and reliable information at a trusted and accessible place. This allows users to take meaningful steps toward better health and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.”