YOUNGSTOWN (July 6, 2026/For Immediate Release) – The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) hosts public reading of Declaration of Independence to honor America 250 coinciding with readings across the county to mark the 250th anniversary of the public reading of the Declaration on July 8th, 1776. The readers will include a collection of community leaders and citizens, each reading a portion of this important document.
“The Declaration of Independence was first read in public on July 8, 1776. On July 8, 2026,” said John Waller, Core Services Supervisor and PLYMC America 250 Chairperson. “The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County will join organizations across the country in a simultaneous reading of America's founding document! Mahoning County community leaders and community members alike will read individual segments as we join the thousands of other readers nationwide. This important event will allow our community to share in the spirit of the early days of America and help reinforce our connections to one another as citizens of this great country!” Waller continued.
Scheduled readers include, PLYMC Director and CEO Aimee Fifarek, YSU President Bill Johnson, Youngstown City Council President Anita Davis and Mahoning County Commissioner Anthony Traficanti.
Commissioner Traficanti shared that “The Declaration of Independence is one of the most historic documents ever drafted. It is synonymous with Americas 250th anniversary because it is our nations birth certificate and foundational creed.” Traficanti continued, “Drafted in 1776, it established America’s core philosophy equal and are created equal, and remains the driving blueprint for our country!”
Library Director and CEO Aimee Fifarek added "I'm thrilled to be able to take part in this amazing event happening across the country. PLYMC was founded on the principle of being "For The People" as was our country. This document, which launched the American experiment is a testament to the values and principles defended then, and still defended today."
The reading will take place at the Main Library of PLYMC at 6pm on July 8th. It is free to the public.
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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.
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