Policy on Opioid Antagonists and Overdose Response

POLICY ON OPIOID ANTAGONISTS AND OVERDOSE RESPONSE

1. Purpose

In recognition of Public Act 104-0056, effective January 1, 2026, and as part of the Library’s ongoing efforts to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for patrons and staff, the NilesMaine District Library adopts the following policy regarding opioid antagonists and overdose response. This policy reflects the Library’s intent to align with the requirements of state law and to support the well-being of the community it serves.

2. Policy

2.1 The Library shall maintain an accessible supply of opioid antagonists, as defined by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), in appropriate locations within the Library.

2.2 The Library shall enroll in and utilize the IDHS Drug Overdose Prevention Program (DOPP) or other lawful sources to obtain opioid antagonists and related training, with the goal of avoiding additional cost to the Library.

2.3 The Library shall take reasonable steps to ensure that authorized personnel, defined as employees who have completed recognized training on recognizing an opioid overdose and administering an opioid antagonist, are present during all hours the Library is open to the public.

2.4 Training shall be offered to all Library employees to ensure adequate coverage and minimize staffing gaps. Training may be provided through DOPP, IDHS, IDPH, or other qualified organizations.

2.5 Authorized personnel are permitted to administer an opioid antagonist in good faith to any person on Library premises, or at a Library-sponsored event, whom they believe to be experiencing an opioid overdose.

2.6 Authorized personnel may carry an opioid antagonist on their person while on duty.

2.7 Authorized personnel may be entitled to tort immunity as provided under Public Act 104-0056, except in cases of willful or wanton misconduct. To the extent such immunity is available, the Library and its staff intend to act in good faith reliance on the protections afforded by law.

3. Administrative Procedures The Library Director is authorized and directed to establish and maintain the following procedures in order to implement this policy.

3.1 Securing Supplies

1. Enroll in IDHS’s Drug Overdose Prevention Program (DOPP) as the primary source of naloxone (Narcan) and related materials.
2. Maintain a sufficient and unexpired supply of opioid antagonists, with storage in secure but accessible locations known to staff, including at least one location at each staffed service desk.

3.2 Training Staff

1. Ensure all employees complete training in overdose recognition and naloxone administration, through DOPP, IDPH, or another recognized provider.
2. Maintain training records, including dates of completion and refresher sessions.
3. Provide refresher training at least annually or when updated state guidance is issued.

3.3 Ensuring Coveragea.

1. Manage scheduling so that at least one trained staff member is present whenever the Library is open.
2. If no trained staff are available, immediate corrective measures such as reassigning or rescheduling shall be taken.

3.4 Recordkeeping and Compliance

1. Maintain records of supply inventory, staff training, and incident reports.
2. If naloxone is administered, complete an incident report within 24 hours and file any required notifications with IDHS or IDPH.

3.5 Communication to Staff

1. Inform staff where opioid antagonists are stored and how to access them.
2. Provide quick-reference guides such as laminated cards at service desks with step-by-step response instructions.

3.6 Review and Updates

1. Review these procedures annually, or sooner if required by changes in state law or IDHS/IDPH guidance.
2. Present recommendations for revisions to the Board policy as needed.