Vending machines with free naloxone (Narcan), as well as other health and safety items, were recently installed inside the Coralville Public Library, North Liberty Library, and The Deadwood in Iowa City. An additional machine will be located outside of the Johnson County Health and Human Services building in the next few months.
All items are available for free to anyone. No ID, payment, or personal information is required. Items may vary by location and over time. Funding for these machines and the life-saving naloxone nasal spray is made possible by national opioid settlement dollars.
The machines will also offer gun safety locks donated by the VA Iowa City Healthcare System and condoms, personal lubricants, emergency and over-the-counter contraceptives, hygiene and wound care kits, and sharp containers courtesy of Johnson County Public Health’s Integrated Testing Services program.
“This initiative reflects Johnson County’s commitment to finding real solutions to our community’s health and safety challenges. By increasing access to life-saving tools like naloxone and other harm reduction supplies, we’re not only helping prevent overdose deaths, but we’re also working to transform how our systems respond to substance use,” said Johnson County Board of Supervisor Mandi Remington, “Reducing the risk of fatal overdose and disease transmission protects our whole community. Harm reduction is a part of public health, and it’s how we save lives while building towards long-term solutions.”
On September 22, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. there will be a public event to raise awareness about the harm reduction vending machines at the Coralville Public Library. Attend to listen to community leaders speak about this program.