Algonquin library to host blood drive July 23

The Algonquin Area Public Library will host the American Red Cross blood donation bus from 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday, July 23, at the Harnish Main Library parking lot, 2600 Harnish Drive in Algonquin.

The American Red Cross is the largest single provider of blood in the country. Giving blood is safe, simple, and helps save lives. One donation can help up to three people.

"Hospital patients continue to need lifesaving blood this summer, and they're relying on the generosity of volunteer donors to give them hope in the days and weeks ahead," said Sara Bruesewitz, American Red Cross donor recruitment account manager. "We see a seasonal challenge in collecting blood during the summer so the American Red Cross is delighted to partner with the Algonquin Area Public Library District in hosting a community blood drive."

Residents interested in donating should visit redcrossblood.org and enter the library's ZIP code (60102) in the red "Find a Blood Drive" box. Choose the library's location and select your time. Donation appointments last approximately 45 minutes. After donating, you'll receive juice, cookies and the satisfaction that comes from doing a good deed for someone in need.

For more details and a direct link to make an appointment, visit aapld.org and click on the blood drive box. Everything you need to know about donating blood is at www.redcrossblood.org. Questions about the drive itself should be directed to the library's blood drive coordinator Theresa Therens at (847) 458-3133.