Public Libraries Become Unexpected Health Hubs [Video]

From checkouts to checkups, public libraries are stepping into the role of community health providers in the United States.

Numerous community health hubs are now situated across the country’s under-supplied regions, offering medical services, mental health support, and wellness information.

Initiatives range from mobile clinics to fitness classes and food pantries.

The Milwaukee Public Library hosts Aurora Health Care’s Mobile Medical Clinic.

They provide on-the-spot medical advice and tools like blood pressure cuffs——solutions to alleviate some of the emotional and financial burdens that come with navigating the U.S. healthcare system.

A simple question is posed to visitors: “Do you have any questions about your health?”

Chef Sharrie Agee helps Yareni Orduna-Herrera slice tomatoes for a margherita pizza as part of the Milwaukee Public Library Snack Hack, an after school nutrition program that teaches kids how to make healthy meals at…AP Photo/Devi Shastri