• By Annie Vasquez
• Posted Thursday, August 28, 2025

Overdose reversal drug available at Forsyth County libraries

The lifesaving opioid overdose reversal medication Narcan, also known as naloxone, is now available at all Forsyth County Public Library branches.

This initiative is made possible through opioid settlement funds dedicated to reducing the impact of the opioid crisis in our community, which Forsyth County Government has used, in part, to purchase the Narcan.

“Libraries are trusted spaces where everyone is welcome,” said Forsyth Substance Use Service Coordinator Annie Vasquez. “By placing Narcan in these public spaces, we are equipping all community members with a simple, but powerful, tool to save lives.”

Narcan is a nasal spray that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose within minutes. It is safe to use, requires no medical training, and is recommended by health officials as a critical resource in addressing the overdose epidemic. Access to Narcan is a proven harm-reduction strategy that helps keep more people alive and creates opportunities for treatment and recovery.

The Narcan will be available free of charge at all ten library locations. Community members can ask for a kit at the help desk of each library branch with no questions asked. Many library staff have received training on how to administer Narcan in an emergency and will share administration information to those that request a kit.

“This is about giving people a second chance,” said Vasquez. “Every life saved is a chance for recovery, and by placing Narcan in libraries, we are making sure hope is never out of reach for anyone in Forsyth County.”