The Public Library of Youngstown & Mahoning County (PLYMC) will temporarily close the Michael Kusalaba Branch to the public from Monday, December 1 through Saturday, December 6, reopening Monday, December 8.
The temporary closure will allow staff and contractors to complete a major floor plan redesign which is the next operational step in transforming Kusalaba into the region’s first certified Family Place Library, a national model focused on early childhood development, parent support, and whole-family learning.
During the closure, staff will work inside the building to reorganize collections, relocate service points, open sightlines, and create clearly defined areas for young children, parents, teens, and adults.
“Parents and caregivers need spaces that feel welcoming, safe, and easy to use,” said Jordan Shaver, PLYMC Chief Operating Officer. “These improvements were designed specifically with families in mind, which includes clearer sightlines, better zones for play and learning, and more room for people to gather. This is the next step in delivering on our promise to support families on Youngstown’s West Side.”
Michael Kusalaba’s Family Place Library designation, achieved in late 2024, positions the branch as a hub for expecting parents and families with very young children. The model emphasizes child development, parent-child engagement, community partnerships, and early literacy support.
As part of the Family Place Library network, Kusalaba offers specialized early-childhood programming, access to parent support resources, and upcoming text-based tools to connect families with information on development, literacy, and community services.
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The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) has served the Mahoning Valley since 1880 when the Youngstown Library Association was officially created. With 14 branches across Mahoning County, including Main Library in downtown Youngstown, PLYMC is well known for its signature services and programs like Summer Discovery and 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten. PLYMC serves our communities by preparing children for kindergarten, promoting early literacy, assisting job seekers, connecting Valley residents to technology, and providing resources for small businesses.