Libraries expand Naloxone clinics, training at Los Angeles County libraries

LOS ANGELES — Ten libraries in Los Angeles County are expanding their Naloxone clinics in a collaborative effort led by the county Department of Public Health, it was announced on Wednesday, March 27.

The clinics will be open every Wednesday from noon to 4 p.m. until June 26 and provide Naloxone kits and training for all those who want to participate.

How to administer the medication properly is part of the training offered.

Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is an FDA-approved nasal spray that can quickly reverse the effects of opioid overdoses. The clinics aim to address the rise in overdose deaths, particularly those linked to fentanyl, which is the leading cause of overdose deaths in Los Angeles County.

“Libraries are trusted community spaces where people seek information and resources. Through our Naloxone clinics, we’re extending our reach to contribute to the health and wellbeing of our neighbors,” said L.A. County Library Director Skye Patrick.

Fentanyl was responsible for approximately 59% of all alcohol and other drug overdose deaths in 2022, making it the deadliest drug in the region, surpassing methamphetamine overdoes, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Substance Abuse Prevention and Control.

The report also showed a 1,652% increase in accidental fentanyl overdose deaths from 2016 to 2022, escalating from 109 to 1,910 fatalities.

“In the worst overdose crisis in local history, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health welcomes L.A. County Library’s leadership to promote universal access to Naloxone,” said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. “Naloxone is a lifesaving medicine that quickly reverses an opioid overdose. Community access means more lives can be saved.”

The selected libraries hosting the Naloxone Clinics are:

– A C Bilbrew Library

– East Los Angeles Library

– El Monte Library

– Lancaster Library

– Leland R. Weaver Library

– Lennox Library

– Norwalk Library

– San Fernando Library

– Temple City Library

– West Hollywood Library

For more information on the Naloxone Clinics, including dates, visit LACountyLibrary.org/naloxone.