Unpacking the Trunks: Easy‑to‑Use Health and Wellness Resources for Libraries

Story Time

After COVID, both public libraries and public health organizations experienced a major loss of community trust. This presentation opens by talking about the crisis of misinformation, anger, and confusion many staff experienced while serving the public and the realization that rebuilding trust requires working together.

A Little Bit About Us

Public health is about protecting and improving health for people and communities. It focuses on preventing chronic diseases, promoting healthy lifestyles, and collaborating with partners across sectors. Public health professionals often work with clinics, health systems, local health departments, and community organizations. Libraries have increasingly become valued partners in this work.

Why Is Public Health a Logical Library Ally?

Public health professionals aim to ensure that everyone can access resources and supports they need to be healthy. These values align closely with library missions of equitable access, community service, and information sharing.

Montana’s Varied Health Landscapes

Montana communities differ dramatically in population, geography, resources, and needs. Both public health and libraries must remain flexible to serve each community effectively.

Chronic Disease & Social Determinants of Health

A person’s health is affected far more by conditions in their community than by clinical care alone. Social determinants—like jobs, income, housing, transportation, and social support—account for about 80% of health outcomes.

The Five Domains of SDOH

• Economic Stability
• Education Access & Quality
• Healthcare Access & Quality
• Neighborhood & Built Environment
• Social & Community Context

Many Ways to Share Information

Public health uses dashboards, maps, fliers, and program materials to communicate with communities. Libraries already excel at connecting patrons to information, and many of these tools can be adapted for use in library settings.

Why Are Libraries Logical Public Health Allies?

Libraries are trusted, accessible hubs where people find information and resources. Many aspects of library service—such as health literacy, educational programming, emergency preparedness, and community spaces—support public health goals.

• Health literacy support
• Educational programs
• Libraries of Things
• Emergency resources
• Telehealth access
• Social connection
• Food access
• Wi‑Fi and digital access

Library Blood Pressure Toolkits

Montana libraries have partnered with DPHHS to circulate blood pressure toolkits that allow patrons to take home a cuff, learn how to use it, and monitor their health.

Virtual Trunks

Virtual trunks provide curated health information on specific topics such as chronic disease, smoke safety, and health literacy. These trunks support staff and can be adapted for patron programming.

Working Together to Meet Health Needs

Libraries and public health agencies can collaborate on referrals, classes, and programs addressing Social Determinants of Health and evidence‑based health promotion.

Examples of Evidence‑Based Programs

• Stepping On (falls prevention)
• National Diabetes Prevention Program
• Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention
• Health Coaches for Hypertension Control
• Walk With Ease
• MEND (family healthy weight)

Evaluation: Potential, Process, Impact

Libraries can assess whether a health program fits their community by evaluating potential (need & capacity), process (staff, time, logistics), and impact (benefits to patrons).

Action! (WISDOM)

WISDOM stands for: What I Shall Do On Monday. What actions inspired by this presentation can you take when you return to your library?

Thank You

 Contact: Margaret.Mullins@mt.gov & Trina.Filan@mt.gov