East Hartford Public Library Creates Personal Protective Equipment for UConn Health Center

EH library Making faceshields

East Hartford, CT— At the East Hartford Public Library, Makerspace staff have been working with a network of makers and hobbyists across Connecticut to create in-demand Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the UConn Health Center.  

Working to UConn’s specifications and under the leadership of Marc Pettersen, Makerspace Associate, the library’s 3D printers have printed out dozens of face shields and mask straps.

“During these challenging times, community support is important more than ever and the Makerspace staff at the East Hartford Public Library are uniquely qualified for this type of emergency response,” said Mayor Marcia Leclerc.

So far, the library has donated 15 face shields with more PPE in the works. Initially, the project began with printing face shields but since then, staff has transitioned to creating mask straps, which relieve irritation for medical workers who are wearing masks all day.

“The ingenuity of our Makerspace staff, who are experienced ‘tinkerers’ makes them well-suited to come up with solutions to equipment needs,” said Library Director Sarah Kline Morgan.

According to Marc Pettersen, his inspiration came from seeing articles about other library makerspaces stepping up to print PPE, and when UConn Health Center reached out, he was ready to start printing.

In addition to printing PPE, the Makerspace staff have been using their creative minds to produce videos for the library’s YouTube channel, sharing valuable resources and tutorials with our patrons and viewers. We invite you to visit the Library’s Youthbe chance to view tutorials, virtually tour the space and connect with our staff remotely.

Although the Library remains closed to the public, our staff members are available by phone from 9 – 5, Monday – Friday (860-290-4330) or via e-mail at ehpl-reference@easthartfordct.gov.