UPDATE: The New Lenox Public Library has just launched a vital care cabinet, providing essential items and Narcan to those in need, with no questions asked. This initiative, which opened on December 4, 2023, aims to support residents facing hardship, particularly as federal aid cuts have left many vulnerable.
Executive Director Michelle Krooswyk emphasized that the library is not just a place for books but also a crucial resource for the community. The care cabinet is stocked with free essentials including shower products, deodorant, toothpaste, gloves, chapstick, first-aid supplies, socks, and life-saving Narcan, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses.
The initiative was funded by a $1,000 grant from the Friends of The New Lenox Library, and the cabinet was initially scheduled to open in January 2026. However, due to increased local need, Melissa Seaberg, the administrative library coordinator, requested an earlier launch in December. “With many low-income residents facing cuts to essential federal programs, we felt it was urgent to provide this support now,” said Krooswyk.
The care cabinet is designed to be accessible and non-judgmental, allowing individuals to take what they need without feeling embarrassed. “There’s people from all walks of life that come here, and we want to support you,” said Krooswyk. This community-driven initiative has already seen high demand, particularly for items like lip balm, gloves, and deodorant, indicating a significant need in the area.
In collaboration with the Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization, the library is distributing Narcan, which can be life-saving. Krooswyk encourages community members to attend training sessions on how to use Narcan, highlighting its importance in combating the opioid crisis.
The library community has rallied around the cabinet, with many residents donating items from home. Due to overwhelming generosity, Krooswyk mentioned that the library had to regulate donations to ensure hygiene and quality. Monetary donations can be made through the library’s website or via an Amazon wish list.
Inspired by successful models from other libraries, Krooswyk and her team are committed to finding innovative ways to support the community. “We are always looking to share ideas that work,” she noted, reflecting on her 25 years of experience in library services.
The care cabinet will remain open during library hours, and Seaberg has also initiated a fundraiser linked to a whimsical crochet project featuring holiday kittens, which has sparked community interest and engagement.
As the New Lenox Public Library prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary next year, plans for new renovations and a café space set to open in January 2024 are in the works. The library continues to evolve as a vital community hub, offering not just literary resources but essential support for residents facing challenges.
With the care cabinet now operational, the New Lenox Library stands ready to respond to community needs, reinforcing its role as a safe, welcoming space for all.
