Access free fentanyl test strips at these 13 L.A. County locations

Los Angeles County libraries have expanded their fight against deadly drug overdoses, now offering free fentanyl test strips alongside their weekly naloxone clinics at 13 locations across the region.

The test strips allow people to check their drugs for fentanyl. This powerful synthetic opioid can prove lethal even in tiny amounts when mixed into street drugs without users' knowledge. The strips detect fentanyl in various forms, including pills, powder, and injectable drugs.

Libraries are trusted spaces where people can access these resources. This expansion of harm reduction services aims to prevent overdoses and save lives. People can visit the participating libraries each Wednesday from noon to 4 p.m. to receive fentanyl test strips. This program builds upon existing naloxone distribution services, which provide medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.

Fentanyl is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and is frequently present in illicit drug supplies without users' knowledge. These test strips serve as an essential harm reduction tool, allowing people who use drugs to make informed decisions about their safety.

The strips remain legal in California and most other states, with no age minimum for carrying them. Public health experts note that even non-drug users might consider carrying strips to help others in need.

Participating locations span libraries across the county:

- A C Bilbrew Library

- Claremont Helen Renwick Library

- Compton Library

- East L.A. 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

The program comes at a crucial time. While early data suggests California may be seeing a decline in overdose deaths, public health officials stress the ongoing need for accessible harm-reduction tools as the crisis continues.

Beyond providing test strips, the weekly clinics offer a gateway to additional support services. Visitors can learn about substance use treatment options and other community resources, making libraries a vital link between community members and life-saving assistance.

The initiative combines county resources with federal grants to address the opioid crisis. County officials will evaluate the program's impact and consider expanding to additional locations based on community needs and available funding.

For L.A. County libraries, this program marks another step in their evolution to meet pressing community needs. By offering these tools in familiar, accessible spaces, libraries hope to reach people who might not seek help through traditional channels.

Residents seeking test strips can visit any participating branch during Wednesday clinic hours. 

The same locations also provide naloxone and training in its use. For more details about available services, community members can contact their local participating library or visit the L.A. County Library website.

Through this initiative, libraries strengthen their role as community anchors, offering practical tools to prevent overdoses while maintaining their foundational public service mission.

The program reflects a broader understanding that preventing overdoses requires meeting people where they are, with practical tools and support. In making these resources available through trusted community spaces, L.A. County aims to reduce barriers to accessing potentially life-saving supplies.

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