Books and free blood pressure tests at all Indianapolis public libraries

The Indianapolis Public Library recently unveiled its new Libraries with Heart initiative. Visitors can check their blood pressure for free at all Indianapolis library locations.

“Our goal and mission is always to enrich people in whatever way that we need to,” said Danielle Cave, social work manager for the Indianapolis Public Library. “And so, what better way to help them take some initiative with their own health and kind of move things forward.”

Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, which can lead to heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease and more. Additionally, heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the United States. 

The partnership is with the American Heart Association, which provided three blood pressure monitors at all 25 Indianapolis Public Library branches. People who use the machines can receive a list of providers if a follow-up is needed. 

The blood pressure monitors allow people to connect an app on their phone to the machine so people can electronically send the results to their local primary care physician or health system. 

Cave said her team has had over 150 social work interactions this year. Now, they’re hoping the free service will allow residents to access more programs.

“A lot of people don't see the significance in monitoring their health,” Cave said. “I think it will help promote their health and wellbeing because although they could be unhoused, they still deserve access to regular health care.”

The American Heart Association has implemented this program across the country for at least two years. They leverage partnerships to buy the blood pressure monitors at a reduced rate of roughly $5,000 for the equipment at all library locations in Indianapolis.

Lynne Griffin, the senior director of community impact at the American Heart Association in Indiana, said the initiative is an affordable and accessible way to provide awareness about hypertension and heart health. 

“Many people are not aware of hypertension, and they're not even aware of some of the signs and warning signs and symptoms of hypertension,” Griffin said. “We are very excited that we've got all the libraries on board here in Indianapolis.”

Community members can contact the Indianapolis Public Library’s social work team by calling 317-275-4206 or emailing socialwork@indypl.org. 

Contact WFYI’s health reporter Elizabeth Gabriel at egabriel@wfyi.org