The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) will celebrate Black authors, literature, and the love of literacy and reading by participating in this year’s African American Read-In. The Read-In is an initiative of the National Council of Teachers of English with the goal of making literacy a significant part of Black History Month. The library hosted a Read-In last November with 57 attendees who came to celebrate the freedom to read and the importance of literacy in our community.
From 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. there will be live readings from works by African American authors. The community is invited to come listen, join in, or read your favorite Black authors or discover new ones. PLYMC celebrates our freedom to read whatever we choose.
Erin Phemester, PLYMC Chief Experience Officer said, "Everyday in our libraries we invite people to discover the beauty of the written word from all across the nation and the world. Following the incredibly successful read-in this fall, we are thrilled to join the National Council of Teachers of English in spotlighting the impact and importance of Black authors and literature through the African American Read-In at Main Library.” Phemester added, “We look forward to inviting our community to more Read-In programs celebrating the freedom to read and explore the world through the written word at your local library.”
There will be light refreshments, giveaways, and more. No registration is required, and the event is free for everyone.
Follow PLYMC on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok) and check www.libraryvisit.org 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.