Donate Blood @ Your Library

White Oak Library District has partnered with Versiti Blood Center of Illinois by holding blood drives at our Crest Hill and Romeoville Branch Libraries. Read on for details about why blood donation is so critical, and discover what’s in it for you.

Our Communities Need Blood Now

  • Due to the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 in our communities, we are facing an immediate need for blood donations.
  • Many blood drives have been cancelled and continue to cancel, which has led to a dramatic drop in blood donations in recent weeks.
  • Donations tend to decrease during the Labor Day holiday – all blood types are needed.
  • As a thank you, all attempting donors with a valid email on file will receive a $10 e-gift card.
Crest Hill Branch Signup
Romeoville Branch Signup

Donation Is a Life Saver

Because there is no artificial substitute for human blood, someone needs donated human blood every 2 seconds in the United States, and even one donation can help save the lives of up to three people. Donating blood is a safe process. A sterile needle is used only once for each donor and is then discarded.

Examples of transfusion needs are:
  • Cancer: up to 8 units/month
  • Bone Marrow Transplant: up to 2 units/day
  • Liver Transplant: up to 100 units
  • Auto Accident: up to 50 units
  • Cardiovascular Surgery: 2-25 units

Who Benefits from Blood Donation?

At Versiti Blood Center of Illinois, formerly Heartland Blood Centers, we never forget the patients who receive the blood we collect. Every unit of blood is collected from volunteer donors who meet specific criteria and have been screened according to strict guidelines. Every unit (pint) is collected, transported, tested and stored according to tightly-controlled procedures.

Remove Excess Iron

Iron is essential for a body’s healthy function. Iron transports oxygen throughout our bodies, and is integral to many other cell functions. While excess iron in the blood – also called hemochromatosis – is uncommon, too much iron can harm the body. When excess iron is deposited in the liver, heart, and pancreas, it can complicate cirrhosis, heart disease, and diabetes. Excess iron has also been linked to high blood pressure. Typically, these issues are seen more in men who don’t donate blood, as opposed to women who menstruate, and thus lose blood every month.

And If That’s Not Enough

Give a FREE Gift of Life! Donating blood costs you nothing, except a little time. But the benefits for your health and your community are priceless.

Crest Hill Branch Signup
Romeoville Branch Signup

Amy is the Crest Hill Branch Manager and Editor of White Oak Blogs. She has worked for the District since November 28, 2011. She loves to read fiction, most especially cozy mysteries, nonfiction craft books, and self-improvement books. She is an animal welfare advocate, and especially loves Chihuahuas, Pitbulls, & Chimpanzees. Her favorite type of music is punk, and her favorite band is The Clash - The only band that ever mattered.

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