The Van Buren/Cass District Health Department (VBCDHD) formed a strategic partnership with the Van Buren District Library to improve community health education. Recognizing the library as a trusted, accessible space, VBCDHD aimed to engage individuals who typically do not engage with traditional health services; therefore, libraries were identified as ideal partners for fostering open discussions on health issues.

Together, VBCDHD and Van Buren District Library organized health education events where VBCDHD staff addressed community questions and concerns. The library also set up displays with health materials (e.g., brochures, pamphlets, etc.), promoting services and vaccination options.

By tracking attendance and demographic data, VBCDHD assessed the outreach’s impact, especially among minority groups. This partnership enhanced VBCDHD’s credibility, addressed vaccine hesitancy, and established a sustainable partnership model between the health department and library for future health initiatives.