After 23 remarkable years of dedicated service, Deborah Liptak, the Development Director for the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC), has announced her retirement. Deborah was instrumental in creating the Development Director position, establishing a lasting framework for donor relations, fundraising, and volunteer engagement that has strengthened the library system across Mahoning County.
During her tenure, Deborah spearheaded a wide range of initiatives, including the establishment of the county-wide Friends of PLYMC group, the Literary Society for foundation donors, and numerous capital and renovation campaigns supporting branches in Poland, Canfield, Main, Michael Kusalaba, Tri Lakes, Newport, East, Boardman, and Austintown. She also launched sustainable fundraising programs such as the PLYMC bookstore and the signature Brew Ha Ha event, attracting a younger demographic of supporters.
Reflecting on her career, Deborah said, "Libraries are more than buildings filled with books—they are gateways to knowledge, opportunity, and imagination. I am so proud to have helped create a role that connects our community to the library and ensures its continued growth. It has always been my hope that our donors will love and support the PLYMC so that it can remain a vibrant center for learning and literacy for generations to come. It has been a privilege and honor to have been the Development Director for the PLYMC and to serve the people of Mahoning County.”
Deborah has long emphasized the importance of access to information for all, recalling that she brought her children to story time at the Boardman Library from a very young age, fostering a lifelong love of reading and learning.
Aimee Fifarek, Director & CEO of PLYMC, added, "Deborah Liptak’s leadership and vision have been transformative for the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County. From creating the Development Director position to building strong partnerships with donors, volunteers, and the community, she has strengthened every branch and program she touched. Her passion for literacy and access to information has left an enduring legacy, and we are deeply grateful for her 23 years of dedication and service."
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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.