Youngstown Library Board votes to explore relocation of Poland Library

The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) Board has voted to explore the relocation of the Poland Library.

This vote comes after a comprehensive year-long study of deficiencies in the branch dating back to its original design and construction. The study was led by architects and specialized consultants.

21 News was provided a copy of the study, which consisted of three options for the library: maintaining the existing building, renovating the existing building or relocating.

The relocation option would entail the construction of a new 15,000-20,000 square foot facility or significantly renovating an existing building with that same square foot range.

Aimee Fifarek, PLYMC Director and CEO, said although the cheapest option is to maintain the library, it's a temporary fix.

"The entire building wouldn't be resided, right. The areas of the building that the siding is failing on would be replaced. Right. But that still leaves those siding implications to fail in the future," said Fifarek. "The most cost efficient in the long run that will allow us to best serve the Poland community is a relocated community."

 Fifarek said in a press release exploring the relocation of the library is a "fiscally responsible" choice. Fifarek went on to assure the public that the building is still safe for use.

"However, the problems facing this building date back to the original design and construction and they are not going away," Fifarek said. 

According to the study, a temporary relocation of services would not be required during the construction or renovation of a new facility, so library operations can continue uninterrupted during the relocation process.

Tim Sicafuse, mayor of Poland Village, said he  knew there were discussions about the library, but was shocked to hear about the relocation.

"When you think about Poland, one of the first you think about is the beautiful library. Driving through here," said Sicafuse. "It's been here for 20 plus years. It's definitely a pillar of the community to have."

A press conference will be held on Thursday, May 22 where further information on this matter is expected to be provided. We will provide the latest updates on this story as we get them.

In the meantime, the study, which explores all three options for the library can be read below in its entirety.