By Megan Reid: American Heart Association, Triad
Heart Ball Photo By: Yasmin Leonard Photography

In Forsyth County, a simple visit to the local library now offers a resource that has the potential to save lives. Libraries with Heart is an initiative led by the American Heart Association in the Triad that makes consistent blood pressure monitoring accessible to more members of the community. Through this initiative, public libraries across the county are becoming hubs for self-measured blood pressure monitoring, education, and community wellness.

This innovative effort is made possible through the collaboration of Forsyth County library directors, the Forsyth County Department of Public Health, and key community champions, including Sherita Sutton, who represents the Department of Public Health and sits on the board of the American Heart Association in the Triad. Their shared goal is to make preventative health tools accessible to every resident, right where they live, learn, and gather.

A Simple Tool with a Big Impact

High blood pressure is often called “the silent killer,” and for good reason. It places ongoing strain on the heart and arteries, forcing the heart to pump harder to circulate blood. Over time, this leads to arterial stiffness, thickening of the heart muscle, increased risk of heart failure, and greater likelihood of life-threatening complications such as stroke and coronary artery disease.

Forsyth County libraries see hundreds and thousands of adults each year, and placing these self-measured blood pressure monitoring stations within these public spaces makes it easier than ever for community members to check and track their health.

When individuals consistently monitor their blood pressure, they are empowered to take preventative steps like:

• Reducing sodium intake
• Getting regular physical activity
• Managing stress
• Recognizing early signs of hypertension that need medical attention

These small, informed actions add up to healthier futures and longer lives.

A Countywide Resource with Communitywide Impact

With every public library participating, the Libraries with Heart initiative has the potential to reach a broad audience of Forsyth County residents, from parents bringing their children to programs, to older adults attending workshops, to students using public Wi-Fi to complete homework.

Libraries have long been trusted community anchors and now, they are also becoming touchpoints for preventive healthcare.

Early visitors to the monitoring stations have shared that the convenience, privacy, and simplicity of the stations make them especially appealing. For many, it is their first time regularly checking their blood pressure outside a clinic and that accessibility can be life changing.

Fueled by Community Generosity: The Heart Ball Connection

The Libraries with Heart initiative is also a shining example of how Heart Ball fundraising translates directly into community impact.

The Heart Ball, the pinnacle event of the year-round Heart of the Triad campaign, unites business leaders, healthcare partners, and community advocates to improve cardiovascular health across the region. Funds raised through the Heart Ball make initiatives like Libraries with Heart possible.

The relationship between libraries and health organizations demonstrates how philanthropy, public service, and community leadership can work together to create a healthier Forsyth County.

Learn More & Get Involved

Two Forsyth County libraries have already debuted the new stations, drawing local interest and media attention. More branches will roll out resources in the coming months as part of the initiative’s expansion.

Want to get involved in the Heart Ball? Visit: www.heart.org/triadheartball