New Telehealth Pod Launches at Missoula Public Library to Expand Pediatric Care Access for Local Families
Posted on April 24, 2025
Families in Missoula now have a new way to access high-quality pediatric care, thanks to a collaboration between the Missoula Public Library, Families First Learning Lab and Montana Pediatrics. Together, the organizations have introduced a soundproof, user-friendly telehealth pod inside the public library, creating a first-of-its-kind access point for pediatric telemedicine in the state.
Located on the second floor just outside Families First, the private pod offers families a quiet, tech-enabled space to complete video visits with Montana-based pediatric providers. Inside, parents will find an iPad pre-loaded with telehealth tools, a simple how-to guide, and everything they need for a seamless visit. The pod can be reserved like any other library resource from the library’s front desk.
A ribbon-cutting and short open house will take place at 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 30, in front of the Families First offices on the second floor of the Missoula Public Library. Families, media and community members are invited to attend, see the pod, get help with setting up a Montana Pediatrics account, and learn more about this innovative model for expanding pediatric access across Montana.
“This partnership is a natural fit,” said Slaven Lee, director of the Missoula Public Library. “Libraries are about access,” Lee says. “Access to information, resources and now, thanks to this effort, even access to healthcare. We’re proud to support families in this new way.”
In keeping with its broader mission, the library also provides support for families who may need a little help getting started. The only requirements to use the pod are a phone number and an email address. For those who don’t have one, library staff are well-equipped to help set them up.
“It’s part of the library’s ongoing commitment to ensuring every member of the community can connect with the tools and services they need to thrive,” Lee said.
The pod can be used for nearly any child health concern, whether a family can’t get into their regular provider or doesn’t have one, is seeking a pediatric-specific alternative to urgent care, or a variety of other reasons, accessing care from the pod can help families address a range of concerns, including fevers, rashes, minor injuries, behavioral health questions and more.
Montana Pediatrics sees this project as a meaningful step for families in Missoula.
“We’re incredibly fortunate to live in a place with a truly world-class library – one where you can check out so much more than books,” said Dr. Chelsea Bodnar, CEO of Montana Pediatrics. “The Missoula Public Library is a space that sparks curiosity, offers support and fosters real community. As a mom, I’ve felt how powerful that can be, and as a pediatrician, I’m thrilled to see access to pediatric care become part of this community-driven, resource-sharing model. The library is a trusted, familiar place where families can get the help they need, not by navigating complex systems, but by walking into a space they already know and love. That’s how healthcare should feel, too.”
She emphasized that the care families receive through the pod is both local and specialized.
“The health care providers live and work here in Montana. They’re part of the communities we serve, and part of our healthcare ecosystems. We believe in continuity, communication, and that kind of quality care that isn’t always demonstrated with larger, national telemedicine models,” said Bodnar.
Katie Samuels, executive director of Families First, notes how the project supports their mission, too.
“We work every day to support parents in raising healthy, resilient kids,” she said. “Providing access to trusted care right here in a space where families already gather helps remove barriers and supports well-being.”
In addition to the pod, families in need of extra support can receive a Montana Pediatrics At-Home Kit from Families First staff. The kits are free and include comfort and diagnostic tools such as thermometers, children’s medications and a digital otoscope, all to help families manage common illnesses and better prepare for telemedicine visits.
In addition to support from these three organizations, the telehealth pod was made possible by the Treacy Foundation, a Montana-based nonprofit committed to helping communities grow.
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