The Libraries with Heart program is making its way to Okaloosa County, bringing vital health resources directly into the hands of residents through a powerful partnership between the American Heart Association, HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital, and local libraries.
As part of a growing statewide initiative, the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association and its Together to End Stroke sponsor, the HCA Healthcare Foundation, are teaming up with HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and the Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative to improve heart health, prevent stroke, and empower community members to take charge of their health by knowing and monitoring their blood pressure.
High blood pressure—often called the “silent killer”—is a leading cause of both heart disease and stroke, which are top causes of death in Florida and across the United States. Cardiovascular disease alone accounts for roughly one out of every five deaths statewide.
Through the Libraries with Heart program, library cardholders across Okaloosa County can now check out easy-to-use blood pressure monitoring kits. Each kit includes American Heart Association-guided materials, such as a validated monitor and cuff. Included in the educational materials are instructions about how to take your blood pressure at home, what those numbers mean, a log for recording numbers and a list of local health care providers ready to answer questions. All the materials also are available in both English and Spanish.
“We are honored to help raise awareness of heart and stroke prevention through the American Heart Association’s Libraries with Heart program to help raise awareness of heart health and stroke prevention,” said Joseph Everette, chief nursing officer, HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital. “Empowering our community members to take an active role in monitoring and managing their heart health is helping us make real strides in the fight against heart disease and stroke.”
The program has already seen success in other counties across Florida, including the Greater Orlando area, and is now being introduced at participating Okaloosa library branches. Blood pressure kits can be checked out for two weeks and returned just like a book.
“Our libraries have long been a hub for lifelong learning and community wellness,” said Vicky Stever, Director of the Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative. “Partnering with the American Heart Association and HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital allows us to expand our health resources in a way that is both meaningful and accessible for our patrons.”
Plans are already in the works to expand Libraries with Heart to more branches and deepen local health programming. The American Heart Association’s Community Impact team will continue working closely with HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital and library leaders to ensure the program’s long-term success. As for the locations in Okaloosa County, see the below list.
- Crestview Library – 1445 Commerce Drive, Crestview, FL 32539
- Fort Walton Beach Library – 185 Miracle Strip Parkway, FWB, FL 32548
- Mary Esther Library – 100 W Hollywood Boulevard, Mary Esther, FL 32569
- Niceville Library – 206 Partin Drive North, Niceville, FL 32578
- Valparaiso Public Library – 459 Valparaiso Parkway, FL, 32580
For more information about Libraries with Heart in Okaloosa County or how to access a blood pressure kit, contact Evan.Duffy@Heart.org.
