In an effort to combat the ongoing opioid overdose crisis and support harm reduction strategies, LA County Library is expanding its Naloxone Clinics to include free fentanyl test strips. This initiative, in partnership with the California Department of Health Care Services, aims to create safer and healthier communities by providing resources that help mitigate the risks associated with opioid use.

“Fentanyl poisonings are not something we can bury our heads in the sand on. Our young people are at risk, and parents are scared. Bringing these life-saving tools like test strips and naloxone into libraries and making them as accessible as possible to every community makes sense,” said Supervisor Janice Hahn, who led the Board of Supervisors in establishing the Naloxone Clinics at Library locations. “I’m thankful to our LA County Library staff for their willingness to be this critical resource for the communities they serve.”

Beginning in November 2024, the Library will distribute Fentanyl Test Strips at 13 library locations every Wednesday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Participating library locations include:

• A C Bilbrew Library
• Claremont Helen Renwick Library
• Compton Library
• East Los Angeles Library
• El Monte Library
• Lancaster Library
• Leland R. Weaver Library
• Lennox Library
• Malibu Library
• Norwalk Library
• San Fernando Library
• Temple City Library
• West Hollywood Library

“LA County Library is committed to supporting the health and well-being of our communities,” said County Librarian & CEO, Skye Patrick. “By offering both naloxone and fentanyl test strips, we are taking proactive steps to reduce the devastating impact of the opioid crisis in Los Angeles County.”

Why Fentanyl Test Strips?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. It is often mixed into other substances without individuals being aware, making it extremely dangerous. Even a tiny amount—smaller than a raindrop—can be fatal. Fentanyl test strips provide a way to detect the presence of fentanyl, helping prevent accidental exposure and reducing the risk of fatal overdoses.

How to Use Fentanyl Test Strips

Fentanyl test strips are easy to use. Simply dissolve a small sample in water, dip the strip into the solution, and wait for results to appear within five minutes. One line indicates the presence of fentanyl, while two lines indicate a negative result. These strips empower individuals to identify the presence of fentanyl, helping prevent accidental exposure and potentially saving lives.

For more information about fentanyl test strips and naloxone available at LA County Library, please visit LACountyLibrary.org/naloxone.