The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) invites residents of the Mahoning Valley to join in a Read-In to celebrate the freedom to read on Saturday, Nov. 2nd at Main Library downtown at the Main Event Space from 10 am to 2 pm.
On Saturday, November 2nd, from 10am – 2pm, the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County invites members of the public to the Main Library to celebrate the freedom to read. After a few comments from Library staff and members of the community, you can check out a book or bring your own and take time to read for yourself or as a family.
Aimee Fifarek, Director and CEO of PLYMC said, “The library exists for everyone in the community and every community has a variety of interests.” Fifarek added, “We strive to be responsive and welcoming to everyone, regardless of their particular identity, background, or interests.”
Mayor Catherine Cercone Miller of Struthers said, “As a parent and a supporter of my local library in Struthers, I prefer to keep decisions about how I teach my kids in the family.” The Mayor added, “I love it that I can go to my library down the street and participate in literacy programs with the help of librarians who understand my families’ unique needs and interests.”
This event also makes clear that book banning and censorship are the oppositive of what libraries stand for and that strong communities are built on strong libraries and the freedom to choose what you want to read as an individual or as a family.
Youngstown Press Club Member JoAnn Kolarik, will be speaking out against banned books and will participate in the Read-In. "As a member of the Youngstown Press Club, I stand firmly against book banning and strongly support our public libraries as essential pillars of democracy," JoAnn Kolarik stated. "The freedom to access diverse ideas and perspectives is critical to an informed society. Just as voting empowers our residents to shape their communities, safeguarding our libraries protects our commitment to free thought and free speech.” she added.
Members of the press are invited to attend, interview the speakers, and cover the event at 10 am on Saturday, November 2nd at Main Library downtown at the Main Event Space.
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.
