The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County is beginning the community feedback portion of its 2027-2031 Strategic Plan process. Feedback sessions will be held throughout Mahoning County from Nov. 2-5.
Library trustees and leadership will be assessing where improvements can be made on programs and services, how to better meet the needs of patrons and how the library system can continue to be a vital part of Mahoning County’s public-service infrastructure.
Registration is available at www.libraryvisit.org, but not required. Refreshments will be served at all sessions.
In addition to feedback sessions, the PLYMC has developed an online survey to give the community an opportunity to share their thoughts about the PLYMC. To view the survey in English, see here. To view the survey in Spanish, see here.
‘Roadmap for serving Mahoning County’
“Hearing directly from our Mahoning Valley community is essential to creating a strategic plan that reflects their priorities and can build us a roadmap that delivers the highest level of service,” said PLYMC Director and CEO Aimee Fifarek. “As we approach PLYMC’s 150th anniversary, their feedback will help us understand evolving needs, help shape the library’s future, and ensure we remain a vital, trusted and essential resource to the Mahoning Valley for generations to come,” Fifarek said.
“Strategic planning gives PLYMC a shared direction and a clear framework for turning our community’s needs into meaningful service,” said PLYMC Board of Trustees President Carole Weimer. “We are thrilled to be able to partner with ReThinking Libraries to align our resources, measure our impact, and remain transparent, fiscally responsible to ensure that the PLYMC continues to impact those we serve.”
“The PLYMC’s Five Year Strategic Plan will be our roadmap for serving Mahoning County with purpose, accountability, and vision. By listening to our staff, partners, and residents, we can set clear priorities, make responsible decisions, and ensure the Library continues to meet our community’s changing needs for years to come,” said Trustee and Steering Committee member Tom Frost.
Community feedback sessions
Tuesday, Nov. 3
- Austintown Library, 600 S. Raccoon Road, Austintown. 10:30-11:30 a.m.
- Poland Library, 311 S. Main St., Poland. 12:30-1:30 p.m.
- Jewish Community Center of Youngstown, 505 Gypsy Lane, Youngstown. 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 4
- Canfield Library, 43 W. Main St., Canfield. 12:30-1:30 p.m.
- Main Library, 305 Wick Ave., Youngstown. 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 5
- Newport Library, 3730 Market St. Youngstown. 12:30-1:30 p.m.
- Mill Creek MetroParks, McMahon Hall, 7574 Columbiana-Canfield Road, Canfield. 5:30-6:30 p.m.
The Public Library maintains social-media pages on Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram and TikTok. Visit www.libraryvisit.org for program updates.
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