Community asks questions about exploring the relocation of the Poland Public Library
Nearly 200 people listened to members of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC), moments after submitting questions about exploring relocation. The leaders of PLMC were at the front of the meeting, answering those questions
People submitted postcards with questions, like what happens to the items inside the library, and when did the group first learn about the structural concerns at the current building?
“A lot of the questions, I think, are personal to people that have been involved in original construction and getting the money together for the building initially. So, I think that is a big concern to people, what happened to the things that they took out of the building,” said Laurie LaPlante, Poland village council member.
There were mixed feelings across the room, with only some saying they are happy those with the library are answering questions.
“This building is kind of a landmark building. It’s kind of an anchor to the downtown and I think it’s really concerning to people what happens to it. And I’m glad the library has decided to open up communication to the residents,” said LaPlante.
But others felt their questions were not answered, and people should have been allowed to speak to members of the public library directly.
“They weren't given the full time and consideration to really hear the truth,” said Bob Mastriana, architect and Poland Village resident.
Mastriana feels if the council kept up with maintenance, the current cost to maintain the building would not be so high.
“If they had started 25 years ago, they wouldn’t have had those expenses now and they wouldn’t have had those expenses now,” said Mastriana.
Aimee Fifarek, PLYMC Director and CEO, has stated to 21 News that while maintaining the current building is the cheapest short-term option, a relocation is the most cost-efficient in the long run and would allow the library to better serve the Poland community.
Even so, Fifarek assured the public that no final decision has been made.
“We are fact finding, looking for alternate sites so we can get a more specific understanding of what those costs would be and what the options would be in the community before any board makes a decision,” said Fifarek.
Fifarek said the board chose to explore the option because there was not as much known about the relocation process as there is about maintaining the current building.
Another question that was asked is what would happen to the current building if they decide to relocate. Fifarek said there are no current plans about what will be done with the building.
There is no set timeline as to when a final decision will be made, but Fifarek is hopeful that decision will be made within a year.
For those who feel their questions were not addressed, those on the board are encouraging Poland Village residents to reach out by email.