By Rose Barnes, Health & Senior Services Librarian
I love the seasonal changes that occur in October and especially enjoy watching the leaves change color and taking long walks. What I don’t love about October is the increased possibility of catching a cold or the flu.
Luckily, October is Health Literacy Month, a time to recognize the importance of making health information easy to understand and the healthcare system easier to navigate.
Did you know that the library has a lot of resources and programs relating to health information? Below find library resources to help you on your health and wellness journey all month long, and beyond:
3 ways to take charge of your health, with help from your library
1. Explore Consumer Health Complete
Available with your Oak Park library card and PIN, this online resource covers health and wellness topics including mainstream medicine to holistic healing. I’ve used it to cross-reference common drug information and look up information on aging and nutrition. Take a look around and see what you can discover in this useful online resource »
2. Attend Medicare Educational Seminars
This October through early December, the library is hosting a series of Medicare Education seminars. Join Medicare expert Ivan Morgan as he navigates the ins and outs of the Medicare system, covers what’s new this year, and answers your burning Medicare questions. Each session will cover the same information but there are multiple dates in order to offer the most access possible. Register now for an upcoming session »
3. Sign up now for health & wellness events
Join the library for a virtual wellness class every Tuesday and free blood pressure screenings in November and January.
- Midday Meditation (the first Tuesday of each month): Help manage stress, boost your immune system, and increase your energy. Register now »
- Chair Yoga (the second, third, and fourth Tuesdays of each month): Improve your flexibility, concentration, and strength, while boosting your mood, and reducing stress and joint strain. Register now »
- Free Blood Pressure Screenings (Wednesdays, November 2 & January 4): Get a free blood pressure reading and discuss your results with a licensed physician from Duly Health. Register now »

About Rose
Rose is an Adult Services Librarian specializing in health and senior services. She is a passionate reader, baker, and explorer who is always planning her next adventure.