New law requires public libraries across Illinois to carry opioid OD reversal medication; The Chicago Tribune, December 28, 2025

Lisa Schenker, The Chicago Tribune; New law requires public libraries across Illinois to carry opioid OD reversal medication

Illinois libraries required to carry Narcan next year; Fox2Now, December 9, 2025

Caroline Pettey, Alex Barton, Fox2Now; Illinois libraries required to carry Narcan next year

"Starting on the first day of 2026, public libraries across Illinois will be required to keep opioid overdose-reversal medications, such as naloxone (Narcan) on site and have trained staff ready to administer them.

A new standing order signed by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) director seeks to fight back against opioid overdose deaths by making sure that libraries, often considered a safe space for the community, is prepared to respond in that kind of emergency. 

Libraries will be able to obtain naloxone or nalmefene without a prescription and train staff to use it. Under the Illinois Good Samaritan Act, library personnel who administer naloxone in good faith are protected from liability.

The law will require at least one trained person on duty at all times."