Libraries Build Healthy Communities

In recent years Brooklyn Public Library BPL has identified public health as a growing area of need. Through its 59 branches and Central Library, BPL offers an array of programs that target health education and outcomes, but does not have a coordinated approach to the types of health-related programs offered or a system for making referrals to trustworthy health resources, including online information and community organizations. To achieve its health outreach goals, build capacity across its system and generate new health literacy programs, BPL proposes: 1 creating program kits that provide librarians the materials and curricula to implement health literacy programming at branches through the Brooklyn; 2 training 120+ librarians through a two-day staff conference entitled Libraries Build Healthy Communities, that will combine learning, networking, and an ideation session; and 3 supporting branch librarians to immediately implement programs ideas gained at the conference. This proposed project will be managed by BPLs Outreach Services department established in 2013 to build relationships with local community-based organizations and government agencies, and to offer specialized information, assistance and programming for traditionally under-served and vulnerable populations including immigrants, veterans, older 88, and people experiencing homelessness, and families and individuals impacted by incarceration.