The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) has released plans for the decade ahead, including ideas for all 14 library locations.

The PLYMC 10-Year Facilities Masterplan cites the need for "flexible, multi-purpose spaces that can adapt to rapidly changing community needs" and states that, while many of their locations are structurally sound, the older locations bring up issues in effectively adapting to modern service needs. 

Library officials state the decisions outlined in the plan were made after speaking with the community members, branch employees, emergency service officials, school administrators and others to understand what residents want from their local libraries.

"PLYMC's strength is our ability to adapt as the county changes while remaining fiscally responsible. This plan takes a countywide view and gives us clear, realistic recommendations to guide future decisions," Trustee, Building and Sites Committee Chair Ron Strollo stated.

The Poland facility alone, which received approval to explore potential relocation in May 2025 due to structural concerns, is estimated to cost more than $6 million to maintain. Maintenance costs for other branches are estimated to range from roughly $250,000 to nearly $2.6 million each.

Potential renovations, relocation and new build costs could approach $50 million in total. The plan states that the library system aims to continue library capital projects through its normal operating budget rather than taking on debt.

According to the master plan, PLYMC branches serve nearly 230,000 residents in total and plan to continue expanding its services to those who cannot make it to a physical location through its Community Engagement Department.

The plan also emphasizes enhancing children’s and teens' spaces by reconfiguring existing areas through adaptable design projects.

"This plan gives us a clear, community-informed roadmap for the next decade, so future decisions about our library spaces are thoughtful, strategic, and grounded in how people actually use them." PLYMC Director and CEO Aimee Fifarek stated.

Overall, the plan addresses the end goal of continuing to allow PLYMC to "share, create, and grow together throughout the Valley."

The PLYMC 10-Year Facilities Masterplan can be found on the library's website along with a full list of branches.