Libraries with Heart self-measured blood pressure program launches at Fondulac District Library
PEORIA, Ill., July 22, 2025 — The American Heart Association, in collaboration with Fondulac District Library, today announced the launch of a new Libraries with Heart program in East Peoria. With the addition of these free blood pressure kits, the library now offers a convenient and welcoming place for patrons to check their blood pressure and the opportunity to borrow equipment for home monitoring, to learn more about heart health, and to take action to live longer, healthier lives.
“With one available in the library and one available for checkout, these devices make it easy and accessible for our community members to monitor their blood pressure,” Peoria American Heart Association development director Kaitlin McVey said.
Library card holders can stop by Fondulac District Library (no appointment needed) and take a step toward a healthier future by checking out self-measured blood pressure kits for seven days. The kits contain information about how to track blood pressure numbers and how to live a heart healthy life through healthy eating, stress management, physical activity and eliminating tobacco use. Users can better detect patterns in their blood pressure and seek further care through screen-and-refer resources provided by the American Heart Association’s Peoria Community Impact team.
East Peoria boasts a large population of senior citizens, many of whom live on a fixed income. Residents often have difficulty accessing health care regularly or at all. Libraries with Heart is committed to empowering communities with the knowledge to fight heart disease — the No. 1 killer of Americans.
“Libraries are central locations for critical needs — from job searching, to encouraging multigenerational literacy, and building connection through events and programs,” Fondulac District Library director Genna Buhr said. “Fondulac District Library has a role in bridging the gap between our community of residents and the best quality of life possible by giving access to lifesaving knowledge.”
High blood pressure is a leading cause of death in the United States and Illinois, and occurs when the force of blood pushing against the walls of blood vessels is too high. Hypertension can lead to other health problems including heart attack or stroke and should be managed regularly. Fondulac District Library is proud to serve as a trusted neighborhood location for these blood pressure devices to boost awareness of the importance of regular blood pressure checks alongside the American Heart Association.
The American Heart Association, Peoria is also celebrating strides made in heart health at the Peoria Heart Ball on Friday, Oct. 3. The Peoria Heart Ball will be at the Par-A-Dice Hotel & Casino and promises to be an evening of inspiring stories, a gourmet dinner and entertainment to promote a cause that touches every community.
For more information about Libraries with Heart or to purchase tickets for the Peoria Heart Ball, contact Kaitlin McVey at 319-759-9392 or kaitlin.mcvey@heart.org.
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About Fondulac District Library
Located in East Peoria, Illinois, Fondulac District Library serves its community by providing access to inclusive materials, services, and programs that enrich, engage, and educate. Fondulac District Library is committed to the support of a culture of lifelong learning. For more information, visit the library at 400 Richland Street or at fondulaclibrary.org or call 309-699-3917.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries: 214-706-1173
Jorie Goins: Jorie.Goins@Heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
