By: centraljersey.com
PLAINSBORO – The Plainsboro Public Library is getting set to open its new Health Education Center.
Endorsed by a major grant from Bristol-Myers Squibb, and guided by an advisory board of local medical professionals, the center will offer more than a quiet place for research. Residents already have discovered they can drop in for a quick blood pressure check while they’re at the library, and monitor their weight as well.
On the center’s big screen, reference librarians play a stream of educational videos that include the Mayo Clinic’s wellness solutions for such afflictions at arthritis, heart disease and back pain. Assistant Director Carol Quick researched the set of educational materials made up of DVD’s, pamphlets, digital resources, books and displays.
The library will soon feature regular demonstrations of a Nintendo Wii with the game Wii Fit, which was donated by Drs. P. Rahakrishnan and Shankar Santhanam of Children’s Preferred Care. Recognizing that poor balance is frequently the cause of falls and broken bones, Library Director Jinny Baeckler experimented with her husband’s Wii Fit equipment. She found that the feedback from the Wii’s body measurements, yoga and exercises was bringing back the centering and posture developed in years of ballet training. Soon, library patrons will be able to make an appointment for a private demonstration and test of the system.
The library will continue hosting bi-monthly blood drives for the community, and has already launched a monthly series of health-related talks. Next on the schedule will be Anthony Dissen from the University Medical Center of Princeton at Plainsboro, who will address "How to Eat a Heart-Healthy and Delicious Diet." To register online, visit www.princetonhcs.org/calendar, or call the library at (609) 275-2898.
All programs and services of the Health Education Center are free. For details and directions to the new library call (609) 275-2897 or visit www.lmxac.org/plainsboro.

