San Francisco pioneers a transformative initiative by offering free drug recovery books in its public libraries. Supervisor Matt Dorsey’s legislation seeks to expand the pilot program citywide, addressing the pressing need amid rising drug overdose fatalities. With over 3,200 books distributed since its launch, the program demonstrates the city’s commitment to combating addiction. By providing access to essential resources like Alcoholics Anonymous’ 12-step recovery book, San Francisco aims to empower individuals on their path to recovery. The initiative complements existing efforts, offering a lifeline to those grappling with addiction and underscoring the pivotal role of education in fostering sustainable change.
In San Francisco, a city grappling with soaring drug overdose rates, an unconventional solution emerges free recovery books at public libraries. The most sought-after volumes aren’t thrilling novels or gripping memoirs but texts centered on battling addiction. Supervisor Matt Dorsey’s proposal to expand the pilot program citywide reflects a bold step toward addressing the crisis. With addiction claiming over 800 lives annually, the urgency is palpable. This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to innovation in public health, recognizing the pivotal role of accessible resources in supporting individuals on their journey to recovery. San Francisco’s initiative challenges conventional approaches, signaling a paradigm shift in combating addiction.
San Francisco City Supervisor, Matt Dorsey, recently introduced legislation aimed at expanding a pilot program focused on distributing addiction recovery books for free across all 28 public libraries in the city. This initiative comes in response to the alarming statistics: a staggering 806 people lost their lives to drug overdoses in San Francisco just last year. If approved, San Francisco would become the first city in the nation to implement such a program, setting a precedent for communities nationwide grappling with the unprecedented fentanyl crisis.
The pilot program, launched last April, initially targeted the main library and two branches. Since its inception, over 3,200 books addressing addiction recovery have been distributed. City Librarian Michael Lambert noted the library’s investment of approximately $40,000 into the pilot program, underlining the urgency and commitment behind the initiative.
Explaining the rationale behind the initiative, Lambert acknowledged the pervasive struggles with addiction and substance abuse disorder within urban environments like San Francisco. He emphasized the library’s role in contributing to community welfare, recognizing the opportunity to support individuals in their journey toward recovery.
At present, the three libraries involved in the pilot program collectively offer around 75 substance-use recovery books at any given time. While the demand remains high, with branches frequently requesting replenishments, the main library finds itself restocking every six weeks. Situated near neighborhoods marred by public drug use and homelessness, the main library serves as a vital resource hub for individuals seeking refuge and assistance.
The genesis of this program stems from the observance of a recurring trend: the constant need to replenish books related to substance abuse recovery, notably Alcoholics Anonymous’ renowned “Big Book.” Supervisor Dorsey, himself a recovering meth addict, emphasized the transformative power of recovery programs in shaping individuals’ lives positively.
Sue Betts, now five years sober from meth and alcohol, shared her testimony, highlighting the pivotal role of literature in her recovery journey. Betts’ initial steps towards sobriety were facilitated by a workbook from LifeRing Secular Recovery, a local substance use recovery organization. She emphasized the importance of literature in fostering introspection and honesty, contrasting it with the potentially intrusive nature of in-person meetings.
The workbook that aided Betts is already integrated into the library’s pilot program, with plans to include additional titles published by her organization. Among the offerings are AA’s seminal 12-step program, publications by Narcotics Anonymous and Crystal Meth Anonymous, and a myriad of other substance use recovery resources, all accessible in multiple languages without the need for a library card, as outlined in Dorsey’s proposed legislation.
While San Francisco already provides essential resources such as free Narcan and clean syringes to address immediate health concerns associated with drug addiction, access to recovery literature serves as a vital gateway to comprehensive rehabilitation programs. With over 560 weekly AA meetings, numerous Narcotics Anonymous sessions, and various other support groups available in the city, these books offer an immediate lifeline to those seeking help.
Keith Humphreys, a prominent figure in the field of addiction psychiatry, underscored the significance of recovery literature as a catalyst for change. He highlighted its accessibility, serving as a beacon of hope for individuals facing barriers to formal treatment programs.
San Francisco’s initiative to provide free drug recovery books at public libraries represents more than just a program—it’s a beacon of hope in a city grappling with addiction. By recognizing the transformative power of education and accessibility, the city takes a proactive stance in addressing the root causes of substance abuse. Supervisor Matt Dorsey’s leadership underscores a commitment to innovative solutions, paving the way for other communities to follow suit. As the program expands citywide, it signals a fundamental shift in how society views and addresses addiction, emphasizing compassion, empowerment, and the fundamental belief in every individual’s capacity for change.
