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In recent years, Mahoning County updated area library facilities for residents, and two new branches, Newport and East, which will open by the beginning of February, will be a testament of those efforts.

EAST BRANCH

Location: Corner of East High Avenue and Early Road.

Size: 9,000 square feet.

Fast facts: Sits on property surrounded by woods and will have an outside atrium so library users can enjoy the scenery. The current East Library was constructed in 1930 and consists of 1,500 square feet of library space. The new branch far exceeds that size. It’s within easy walking distance of the new East High School.

NEWPORT BRANCH

Location: Corner of Market Street and Midlothian Boulevard.

Size: 24,000 square feet, 15,000 devoted to library space.

Fast facts: The roof of the library can be seen from as far away as Market Street and Route 224. The children’s area of the library will have a sculpture made of material that changes colors. About 20 maple trees will help create a parklike atmosphere in the parking lot along with a fully landscaped 20-foot-wide pedestrian greenway extending from Market Street to the main entrance.

Source: www.ymc.lib.oh.us and Janet Loew, library communications and public relations director