Illinois public libraries authorized to administer opioid overdose reversal drugs

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., (KBSI) — Public libraries across Illinois will be permitted to stock and administer opioid overdose reversal medications under an updated standing order issued by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra signed the revised order, which expands access to naloxone and nalmefene—FDA-approved opioid reversal agents—and allows trained library staff to administer them during a suspected overdose on library property. The change supports new requirements under the Illinois Local Library Act that take effect Jan. 1, 2026.

The order builds on a January 2024 directive authorizing schools to maintain a supply of overdose reversal agents. A standing order serves as a physician-approved protocol that enables designated providers to dispense certain treatments without requiring an individual prescription, increasing access and speeding emergency response.

“Medications like naloxone save lives, but only if they are readily available when needed,” Vohra said. “Expanding access in community institutions such as public libraries strengthens our ability to respond quickly and compassionately during an overdose emergency.”

Cynthia Robinson, executive director of the Illinois Library Association, said the legislation behind the change, proposed by an Elgin high school student and a state representative, reflects libraries’ vital role in community support and public health response.

Illinois Department of Human Services Secretary Dulce M. Quintero said the update reinforces statewide harm-reduction efforts. “This expands proven best practices and strengthens our opioid response system,” Quintero said.

Naloxone and nalmefene are considered safe and effective and may be administered even when an overdose have not been confirmed. Library employees must complete training on overdose recognition; proper medication use and the requirement to call 911 for continued medical care.

Under the updated Local Library Act, libraries governed under city, village or township jurisdiction must maintain a supply of opioid reversal agents. The new standing order ensures compliance and also allows other public libraries to stock the medications if they choose.

Additional details are available on the Illinois Department of Public Health under the Illinois Opioid Overdose Reversal Agents Standardized Procedure.