Public Health at the Public Library: Preventative Health Programs Implemented in Large Public Libraries

Abstract

While many public libraries have closed their doors during this time of turmoil and uncertainty, many are offering remote programs to promote wellness and prevent illness. Even before the pandemic, American public library systems were providing preventive health programming on a variety of conditions in partnership with health professionals. This study systematically analyzed such programs offered in the largest public library systems nationally. Using public web calendars and social media accounts (i.e., Facebook and Twitter) of main branches, the authors identified preventive health programs in 2019. This research also summarized event distribution across library systems, by health topic and risk factors, and by preventative education level.