'Kansas City Loves to Read' launches at Research Medical Center's ER at Brookside

Research Medical Center, part of HCA Midwest Health — Kansas City’s largest healthcare provider announced a new partnership with Kansas City Public Schools and the Kansas City Public Library. The ‘Kansas City Loves To Read’ initiative recognizes the importance of meeting families where they are, rather than expecting them to always come to a library by creating public reading spaces in areas throughout the region.

The ER at Brookside is first recipient of ‘Kansas City Loves To Read.’ The reading space has been created for children and families in the waiting room area and includes furniture, an offering of high-quality children’s books, and signage inviting families to sit and read.

“Research Medical Center’s ER at Brookside treats patients during their most vulnerable time — in pain, uncomfortable, and many times these patients are either children, or they accompany their parent,” says Eileen Rowe, D.O., ER at Brookside Medical Director. “They are scared, worried about their injury or illness — or perhaps worried about what the impact of their treatment may cause. This new reading nook, and wonderful books provide a distraction — not just for the child, but also those with them. We are incredibly grateful for the partnership with both the Kansas City Public Library, and the Kansas City Public Schools.”