Rural California libraries become hubs for blood pressure screenings

Sacramento, Calif., June 25, 2026 - Patrons across more than 50 rural California libraries will now be able to access tools to check their blood pressure and manage a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke. The resources are available as part of Libraries with Heart by the American Heart Association, devoted to a healthier future for all.

Library card holders will also have the option to borrow blood pressure monitoring kits for at home measurement the same way they check out a book at select libraries. "Libraries are a trusted source of information in rural communities across California," said Rebecca Wendt, Deputy State Librarian with the California State Library.

"Because high blood pressure is a major health concern, people can now access tools and information that support heart health through rural libraries across the state.