Joel Moreno, KOMO News; Seattle libraries offer Narcan, fentanyl test strips to combat overdose epidemic
"Although library staff have had access to naloxone for emergency use since September 2022, they began providing naloxone and fentanyl test strips for patrons to access themselves in April 2025.
“I feel like the library is doing a good job of providing those resources, but I have personally not seen them, so I'm glad to hear that,” said Sarah Kilpatrick, who was checking out materials at the central branch.
The library's supply of Narcan is available on a self-serve basis. Patrons can simply stop by a library location and pick it up without the need to provide ID, proof of insurance, or a library card to receive the medications.
“I support the decision," said the man who asked not to be identified. "Although they definitely should, and I believe are required to, take a little information from the person they are giving it to, because it is a very expensive product."
Others thought the library was possibly going too far with the program and potentially enabling people’s addictions.
“Educating people, that's OK, but I don't think supplying is a good way,” said NK Das, who questioned giving away free supplies of overdose reversal medication. “The library can educate people about drug use or the misuse of drugs, but I don't think that's the right way of doing things."
Meanwhile, others thought the program should be expanded."
