Helping Seniors Take Health Decisions into Their Own Hands

Health information can change quickly. In an underfunded public library, this translates into out of date resources that can misinform consumers. Unfortunately, the capacity of our public computing is insufficient to meet the needs of our community, and therefore directing people to online health resources such as MedlinePlus is a challenge. Additionally, we do not have the staffing capacity to provide instruction on available, accurate resources. Our residents, and especially our seniors, are unaware of the free, easy, and accurate material available through MedlinePlus. By adding 5 new computers as well as dedicated staff time for instruction and patron support, we will improve the knowledge base of our community and grow their confidence in advocating for their health needs.