Protecting the Protectors: Cleveland Public Library and CMHA Partner to Battle COVID-19 in Housing Developments

Cleveland Public Library and the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) are working together to protect housing employees from COVID-19.

The Library recently used its 3D printers in Tech Central to create 400 face shields for CMHA. The housing agency will distribute the personal protective equipment (PPE) to its police officers and employees who conduct home visits. The face shields block respiratory droplets from reaching the eyes, nose, and mouth.

“During this unprecedented time, it is important to provide personal protective equipment to our law enforcement and front line personnel as we continue to focus on meeting the housing and safety needs of the communities and residents that we serve.”

Jeffery K. Patterson, CMHA CEO

“Cleveland Public Library didn’t hesitate to help CMHA in their efforts to protect staff and community members against COVID-19. Making face shields is our way of giving back to a community that has supported us through the years,” said Felton Thomas Jr., Executive Director and CEO of Cleveland Public Library. “We want our partners and the people they serve to feel healthy and safe during this challenging time.”

The Library is using 14 3D printers to produce face shields. It takes about an hour and a half to create one face guard resulting in 50 shields a day.

Cleveland Public Library has also created more than 2,000 shields for the city’s Department of Public Safety, Burke Lakefront Airport, and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.

“CMHA would like to thank Director Felton Thomas and the Cleveland Public Library team for their support and contributions in the community’s efforts in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic,” Patterson remarks.

“This is what community partnership is all about. Cleveland Public Library is fortunate to have the means to help others. We’re not only in this together; we are stronger together,” adds Thomas, Jr.