Local Organizations Join Forces to Support Heart Health

Rowan Public Library System, Town of Spencer Library, Rowan County Public Health, and American Heart Association collaborate to provide free blood pressure monitoring resources.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 11:39pm

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The Rowan Public Library System, Town of Spencer Library, Rowan County Public Health, and the American Heart Association are celebrating their partnership to bring free blood pressure monitoring resources and heart health education to the community. The initiative includes installing blood pressure kiosks at all RPL branches and the Town of Spencer Library, as well as offering loaner kits for patrons to use at home.

Why it matters

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Rowan County, and many people are unaware they have high blood pressure, a major risk factor. This collaboration aims to improve heart health equity by making it easier for community members to monitor their blood pressure and access critical health information.

The details

The American Heart Association supports library systems nationwide to provide blood pressure monitoring stations and educational resources. RPL and the Town of Spencer Library will each have a permanent station available during regular branch hours, and RPL will also circulate heart health kits that include blood pressure cuffs for patrons to use at home. Rowan County Public Health will be on-site at the launch event to share additional wellness programs.

  • The launch event is scheduled for Friday, February 5, 2026 at 11 a.m.
  • The blood pressure monitoring stations will be available at all RPL branches and the Town of Spencer Library after the launch event.

The players

Rowan Public Library System

The public library system serving Rowan County, North Carolina.

Town of Spencer Library

The public library serving the town of Spencer, North Carolina.

Rowan County Public Health

The public health department for Rowan County, North Carolina.

American Heart Association

A non-profit organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke.

Melissa Oleen

Director of the Rowan Public Library System.

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What they’re saying

“When the American Heart Association and Public Health approached us about the possibility of bringing this initiative to Rowan County, it was an immediate yes. The library is glad to connect its community members with free access to blood pressure monitoring resources.”

— Melissa Oleen, Director, Rowan Public Library System

“Health equity isn't just part of our mission — it's the heartbeat of it. By having blood pressure stations easily accessible at the libraries and loaner equipment for home use, we're clearing obstacles to care and giving people the power to take charge of their heart health.”

— Allison Nelson, Vice President of Community Impact, American Heart Association Greater Charlotte Market

“In 2025, the number one leading cause of death in Rowan County was heart disease. One of the simplest — and strongest — ways to protect your heart is to know your blood pressure. When you know your numbers and adopt a healthier lifestyle, your quality and quantity of life can improve.”

— Amy Smith, Education Specialist, Rowan County Public Health

What’s next

After the launch event, the blood pressure monitoring stations will be permanently installed at all four Rowan Public Library System branches and the Town of Spencer Library, available for public use during regular branch hours.

The takeaway

This collaboration between local organizations demonstrates a commitment to improving heart health equity in the community by making it easier for residents to monitor their blood pressure and access critical resources and education. The initiative aims to empower people to take charge of their heart health and prevent serious complications from unmanaged hypertension.