The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County is beginning the community feedback portion of its 2027-2031 Strategic Planning process in order to dig deep into what makes the PLYMC so special. Library trustees and leadership will be assessing where improvements can be made on our programs and services, how to better meet the needs of our patrons, and most importantly, how the PLYMC can continue to be a vital part of the Mahoning County public service infrastructure over the next five years.
“Hearing directly from our Mahoning Valley community is essential to creating a strategic plan that reflects their priorities and can build us a roadmap that delivers the highest level of service,” said PLYMC Director and CEO Aimee Fifarek. “As we approach PLYMC’s 150th anniversary, their feedback will help us understand evolving needs, help shape the library’s future, and ensure we remain a vital, trusted, and essential resource to the Mahoning Valley for generations to come.” Fifarek continued.
“Strategic planning gives PLYMC a shared direction and a clear framework for turning our community’s needs into meaningful service,” said PLYMC Board of Trustees President Carole Weimer. “We are thrilled to be able to partner with ReThinking Libraries to align our resources, measure our impact, and remain transparent, fiscally responsible to ensure that the PLYMC continues to impact those we serve.” Weimer continued
“The PLYMC's Five Year Strategic Plan will be our roadmap for serving Mahoning County with purpose, accountability, and vision, “said Trustee and Steering Committee member Tom Frost. “By listening to our staff, partners, and residents, we can set clear priorities, make responsible decisions, and ensure the Library continues to meet our community’s changing needs for years to come.” Frost continued
Community feedback sessions will be held throughout the county from November 2nd through November 5th.
Community Feedback Sessions:
Tuesday, November 3rd
Austintown Branch 10:30AM-11:30AM
600 S Raccoon Rd Youngstown, OH 44515
Poland Branch 12:30PM-1:30PM
311 S Main St Poland, OH 44514
Jewish Community Center of Youngstown 5:30PM-630PM
505 Gypsy Ln, Youngstown, OH 44504
Wednesday, November 4th
Canfield Branch 12:30PM-1:30PM
43 W Main St Canfield, OH 44406
Main Library 5:30PM-6:30PM
305 Wick Ave Youngstown, OH 44503
Thursday, November 5th
Newport Branch 12:30PM-1:30PM
3730 Market St Youngstown, OH 44507
McMahon Hall-Mill Creek Park 5:30-6:30PM
7574 Columbiana-Canfield Rd, Canfield, OH 44406
Registrations will be available on www.libraryvisit.org, opens a new window, but they are not required.
Refreshments will be served at all sessions.
In addition to the feedback sessions, the PLYMC has also developed an online survey to give our community more of an opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings about the PLYMC.
English: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PLYMCPRMedia, opens a new window
Spanish: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PLYMCPRMedia?lang=es, opens a new window
Follow PLYMC on social media (Facebook, opens a new window, Twitter, opens a new window, Instagram, opens a new window, and TikTok, opens a new window) and check www.libraryvisit.org, opens a new window for updates.
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.