Lake County, FL — The Lake County Library System (LCLS) is pleased to announce a new partnership with the American Heart Association (AHA) and the HCA Healthcare Foundation to introduce the Libraries with Heart program across all 16 Lake Libraries. Through this initiative, residents may now check out blood pressure monitor kits for a two week period at no cost. Each kit includes a blood pressure monitor, cuff, user instructions, and educational materials to help individuals recognize and understand high blood pressure.

 

High blood pressure remains a leading cause of heart disease and stroke and is often called the “silent killer” due to its lack of noticeable symptoms. Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in the United States and accounts for approximately one in five deaths in Florida. By expanding access to blood pressure monitoring tools, the AHA and HCA Florida Healthcare aim to increase awareness of heart healthy habits and empower communities throughout Central Florida.

 

LCLS Director George Taylor emphasized the importance of accessible health resources, stating, “High blood pressure doesn’t come with obvious warning signs, but it does come with numbers people can track. Libraries with Heart makes that easier by allowing residents to check out a blood pressure monitor kit just like a book. With support from the American Heart Association, all 16 libraries are helping residents monitor their health at home and take meaningful information to their health care professional.”

 

Through this program, the Lake County Library System hopes to support residents in taking proactive steps toward better health and to help bridge gaps in healthcare access across the community. For more information about the Libraries with Heart program, please contact or visit your nearest Lake Library.