Salinas Public Library is collaborating with the Monterey County Free Libraries to create masks for frontline responders during this pandemic.  The masks are being created using 3-D printers that mold several parts of the mask into a durable, germ-resistant mask that includes 5 HEPA filters. 

According to Dawn Vest, an MCFL Librarian who is spearheading the project, the library’s contribution in the form of two 3-D printer equipment and printing supplies has helped to double their production output each day. “Each mask takes approximately 3 hours to assemble, and we are able to produce approximately 10 a day," says Dawn. Masks are going out to regional police departments, community hospitals, and will soon be going out to agricultural workers.  The MCFL is also making "no sew" face masks, shields using sheet protectors, and headbands. 

More supplies are still needed for this project to help healthcare workers and first responders. We invite community participation to help by donating supplies needed for this project:

• New flat and fitted sheets any size, color, and material
• Laundered used fitted sheets (with elastic) any size, color, and material
• New T-shirts
• Lightly used T-shirts washed in unscented laundry detergent
• New bandanas
• Lightly used bandanas washed in unscented laundry detergent
• Elastic
• Paracord
• HEPA vacuum cleaner bags (no fiberglass)
• HEPA filters (no fiberglass)
• New ankle socks in adult sizes
• Gallon-size sealable bags
• Quart-size sealable bags
• Weather stripping
• Legal-size clear sheet protectors
• PLA filament gauge/width 2.85 (3mm) 

For more information, please contact Mila Rianto at (831) 758-7447,