Kusalaba Branch to temporarily close for renovations from Dec. 1-6

The Public Library of Youngstown & Mahoning County will temporarily close the Michael Kusalaba Branch for renovations from Monday, Dec. 1 through Saturday, Dec. 6. The branch will reopen on Monday, Dec. 8.

The closure will allow staff and contractors to complete a major floor plan redesign which is the next operational step in transforming the branch into the region’s first certified Family Place Library, a national model focused on early childhood development, parent support and whole-family learning.

Changes and improvements

During the closure, staff will work to reorganize collections, relocate service points, open sight lines and create clearly defined areas for young children, parents, teens and adults.

“Parents and caregivers need spaces that feel welcoming, safe and easy to use,” said Jordan Shaver, PLYMC chief operating officer. “These improvements were designed specifically with families in mind, which includes clearer sight lines, better zones for play and learning and more room for people to gather.”

“This is the next step in delivering on our promise to support families on Youngstown’s West Side,” Shaver said.

According to the Public Library, Michael Kusalaba’s Family Place Library designation, achieved in late 2024, positions the branch as a hub for expecting parents and families with very young children. The model emphasizes child development, parent-child engagement, community partnerships and early literacy support.

As part of the Family Place Library network, the Kusalaba Branch offers specialized early-childhood programming, access to parent support resources and upcoming text-based tools to connect families with information on development, literacy and community services.