ESLN Technology: Telehealth for All in South Central New York State

In Fall 2021, SCRLC conducted a telehealth survey among the region's public libraries. Thirty-four of 130 participated, and the survey demonstrated interest in offering telehealth, but privacy was a barrier to some of the respondents. Others may not have responded because they, too, lacked space and privacy. The survey also demonstrated a need for health information literacy education on the part of library workers. In that space is a challenge, we would like to use our technology grant to provide telehealth kits to our public libraries/systems. Patients/patrons will then check out a kit from their library and take it home or elsewhere for privacy. The kits will include a Chromebook, hotspot and case, sturdy carrying case, headset, MedlinePlus and health literacy flyers. As part of our project but not funded with monies from this award, SCRLC will also offer health information training to regional library workers.