The Public Library of Youngstown & Mahoning County (PLYMC), in partnership with the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley, is expanding access to autism resources through a curated collection of book recommendations designed to support individuals, families, and caregivers across the community.
Jodi Glass, Executive Director of the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley, shares a collection of books that deepen understanding of autism through both professional insight and lived experience. The recommendations are featured in PLYMC’s blog, Expanding Understanding: Autism Book Recommendations for Our Community. (https://www.libraryvisit.org/blogs/post/expanding-understanding-autism-book-recommendations-for-our-community/, opens a new window)
“I am truly honored to share a collection of books that have shaped my understanding of autism, both as a professional and as the mother of an autistic teenager,” said Jodi Glass. “This collection also includes powerful works written by individuals on the spectrum, helping ensure autistic voices are heard and represented. This partnership ensures that families in our community have access to resources that offer clarity, comfort, connection, and a sense of belonging. I’m incredibly grateful to the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County for helping make these meaningful tools available to all.”
The curated list reflects a growing recognition of the importance of neurodiverse voices and aims to provide accessible, affirming information for the community. By bringing together a range of perspectives, the initiative supports greater awareness, empathy, and connection for families throughout Mahoning County.
“At PLYMC, we are committed to creating welcoming spaces where every individual and family can find information that reflects their experiences and needs,” said Erin Phemester, Chief Experience Officer at PLYMC. “Through this partnership, we are able to connect our community with trusted resources that promote understanding and a stronger sense of belonging.”
Community members can explore the full list of autism-related book recommendations by visiting:
https://www.libraryvisit.org/blogs/post/expanding-understanding-autism-book-recommendations-for-our-community/, 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.