Wake County Libraries Offer Free Blood Pressure Monitors in Groundbreaking Health Initiative

RALEIGH, NC—Wake County Public Libraries is making it easier for residents to manage their heart health by offering free blood pressure monitors for checkout at six local branches. This innovative pilot program, launched in partnership with the American Heart Association, aims to remove barriers to healthcare access and promote heart health awareness, especially during American Heart Month.

“Wake County is committed to providing resources that empower our residents to lead healthier lives,” said Wake County Board of Commissioners Vice Chair Don Mial. “Through this partnership, our libraries are not just centers for learning—they’re now hubs for wellness and preventive care.”

Participating Libraries:

• East Regional Library (Knightdale)
• Fuquay-Varina Community Library (Fuquay-Varina)
• Green Road Community Library (Raleigh)
• Richard B. Harrison Community Library (Raleigh)
• Southeast Regional Library (Garner)
• Wake Forest Community Library (Wake Forest)

“Meeting people where they are is at the core of what we do,” said Abby Fairbank, Community Impact Vice President of the Triangle & Eastern North Carolina, American Heart Association. “By making blood pressure monitors available in community spaces like libraries, we’re providing residents with a critical tool for early detection and management of high blood pressure.”

How It Works:

Residents with a Wake County Public Libraries card can check out a monitor kit for free on a first-come, first-served basis. Each kit can be borrowed for three weeks, with one renewal allowed. Residents are encouraged to return the kits with the completed tracking card to help library staff monitor the program’s success and gather valuable insights for future health initiatives.

Each Kit Includes:

• A clinically validated blood pressure monitor
• Educational materials & blood pressure tracking cards
• A QR code linking to instructional videos in multiple languages
• Step-by-step usage instructions, also available in multiple languages
• Tracking cards to record readings during each circulation period

This initiative aligns with Wake County’s ongoing efforts to improve community health by providing accessible, preventive healthcare tools.

For more information on this program and other health initiatives, visit Wake County’s website.