CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Public Library and the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority, are partnering to keep workers still on duty safe. 

What You Need To Know


  • The Cleveland Public Library is using fourteen 3D printers to print 50-60 visors a day for face shields

  • The library printed over 2,000 so far for first respondes on the city's safety forces

  • 400 masks have been sent to the CMHA for those still working

"COVID has provided libraries, and especially the Cleveland Public Library, with a tremendous challenge on how we move forward in what will be a new normal for us as an organization. But from that comes great innovation as an organization," said Felton Thomas Jr., executive director for the Cleveland Public Library.

Thomas says staying on the sidelines isn't an option, despite closures.

"We know technology is really important for what we do. But, you know, when you are able to use it in a way that can save lives, it really, really makes you kind of thrilled in being able to be a part of that," he said.

The CMHA is happy to receive the help as workers stay on the job.  

"I think that they’ve done a phenomenal job. The willingness to come in, the willingness to continue to serve the public during this time. It’s been commendable. I think that, you know, we just want to make sure that people have the proper gear, the proper equipment to do that safely," said Jeffery Patterson, chief executive officer for the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority.

He says the gear is needed because CMHA can’t take a break from the essential services it provides.

"We have our folks do this because it’s important from a police standpoint to try to make sure that we’re able to provide residents with the safety that they need. And then from our maintenance and management standpoint, you know, we’re in the business of trying to provide housing for residents. And even during this pandemic, you know it’s still critical that people have a place to live and a place to stay," said Patterson.

The Cleveland Public Library has been getting donations of materials from companies like Lowe’s.

In total, it’s made over 3,000 visors.