Youngstown — The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) recently received a $50,000 grant from the Federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), awarded by the State Library of Ohio, to create a dedicated sensory space and offer additional programming and library services for the special needs community across Mahoning County. The purpose of the Outreach and Partnership Grant is to assist libraries in providing new and innovative ways of providing services to patrons and in reaching individuals at a range of locations and through a variety of methods.
The Sensory Space will be in the Boardman Library and include approachable play materials that users can see, touch, and explore to help regulate their bodies through calming sensory experiences. This space can also be used for programming, such as sensory story times, and patrons will be able to book the space. It can also be used by patrons who need a sensory break while using the Library. Additionally, the Library plans to offer additional sensory programming and services at other Library locations.
“PLYMC is grateful to receive this funding to help provide a better Library experience for members of our special needs community, though we believe all of our patrons will benefit from the Sensory Space,” said Pam Brockway, Public Service Manager, Programming and Youth Services. “Through this unique and special space and related programming and services, we are helping to fulfill our mission to welcome and serve all members of our community with empathy, respect, and dignity.”
Work on the space will begin in the next few weeks and should be completed by late summer 2023.
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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 15 branches across Mahoning County, including our Main Library in downtown Youngstown, the PLYMC is well known for signature services and programs like Summer Discovery and 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten. The mission and values of PLYMC to “connect, inspire, and enrich” position the Library to serve 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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