Published: 01/16/2026 | Author: Terri

A new state law that came into effect on January 1st, 2026 requires all public libraries in Illinois to stock Narcan or similar medications that can reverse opioid overdoses caused by drugs like heroin or fentanyl.

This law also allows library staff who are trained to administer these drugs to assist victims in the event of a suspected overdose, according to the state’s Department of Public Health.

Narcan in Illinois Public Libraries and Beyond

Opioid overdoses at public libraries have been a growing concern in recent years. According to Rob Simmons, Oak Parks Public Library’s director of social services and public safety, around two or three people have been overdosing at the library each year. 

Many of these overdoses involve opioids, which depress breathing and can quickly become fatal without rapid intervention.

This has become, in his words, an unfortunate reality that makes having this life saving medication on hand crucial for public libraries. 

The prevalence of these crisis events in free public spaces speaks to a difficult reality. A substantial proportion of community members experiencing opioid addiction may also be unable to access safe and stable shelter. 

Public libraries and other free community spaces are filling that lack. And in the process they are more likely to experience an onsite overdose event. 

A ready supply of Narcan in public libraries and other public spaces can save the lives of high risk and vulnerable populations within the community.

Narcan on the National Stage

In April 2025, the CDC reported that the number of overdose deaths within the previous 12 month period was the lowest reported since March 2020. Many experts are attributing the decline in drug deaths to the prevalence of Narcan in homes and communities.

Since Narcan, also known by its generic name, Naloxone, reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, it’s been on the frontlines of reducing the number of fatal overdoses in the US.

Most fatal overdoses in Illinois are caused by the synthetic opioid fentanyl. At Oak Park Public Library, located west of Chicago, staff have successfully used the drug to reverse overdoses around 20 times to date.

Promoting Public Health at Public Libraries

State Representative Anne Moeller, one of the law’s sponsors, acknowledged how effective Narcan can be at stopping an overdose from becoming fatal. 

She went on to state that because libraries are public spaces with many patrons, there’s a high chance that someone would have such an emergency at some point.

According to Representative Moeller, libraries will also be able to obtain medication kits and training for their staff for free from the state. Several public libraries, such as those in Oak Park and Evanston, have already had supplies and training ready to serve the community.

Find Opioid Addiction Support Near You

Opioid addiction doesn’t have to control your life and jeopardize your future. Recovery is possible.

Find a local NA support group, including in person or online meetings or call 800-934-1582(Sponsored) today.