Amidst the surge of the Omicron variant, free N95 masks have been available to Montgomery County residents since Jan. 21, 2022. Masks will continue to be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at all 19 county libraries. The distribution is set to continue for as long as the Omicron surge continues, according to the initial press release by the Montgomery County Government.
There are nine libraries giving out masks from noon to 2 p.m., from Monday to Saturday. Those are:
- Aspen Hill
- Chevy Chase
- Damascus
- Davis
- Gaithersburg
- Little Falls
- Potomac
- Silver Spring
- White Oak
There are 10 libraries giving out masks from 5 to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday, as well as 3 to 5 p.m. Friday through Saturday. Those are:
- Connie Morella
- Germantown
- Kensington Park
- Long Branch
- Marilyn Praisner
- Olney
- Quince Orchard
- Rockville
- Twinbrook
- Wheaton
Montgomery County residents can check for updates on mask availability through an online portal.
The mask distribution initiative arrived after the CDC recommended higher quality masks for better protection against Omicron, which is more transmissible than previous variants.
“A key element that helps reduce community transmission is the wearing of a high-quality face covering,” Montgomery County executive Marc Elrich said in a press release announcing the initiative.
A Montgomery County resident named Diana described the mask distribution as “smooth, organized, efficient.” She and other residents waiting in line for masks at the Germantown Library expressed gratitude for the program, saying that it helps those who cannot afford masks.
When asked about potential improvements for the program, some residents said they had concerns over accessibility and security. “I’ve seen people get argumentative,” Diana said. She said she would have liked to see more security in the event of an emergency.
Some residents also observed that there are little accommodations for those with disabilities or other handicaps. “There’s nothing in place for those who can’t stand in line,” Diana said.
182,023 masks were given out at Montgomery County libraries as of Jan. 22, 2022. Four masks and two rapid COVID tests are also being distributed while supplies last.
Article by Daniela Freixas-Pavez of Northwest High School
Photo by Avery Wang of Richard Montgomery High School