Library system wants your input

The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) is asking area residents to take a survey as part of the strategic planning process now under way. The new plan, Library 2020, is expected to be completed by the end of this year and run from 2014 to 2020.

An online version of the survey can be taken at MyLibrary2020.org. For those who would rather fill out a paper survey, they are available at all 16 PLYMC libraries in Mahoning County. The library wants to hear from current customers, as well as people who don’t use the library. Those who would like to provide more in-depth information can volunteer for focus groups or attend public sessions.

As part of the project, general community conversations will be held, as well as conversations on more specific topics. Public sessions will be held in June (dates and locations will be announced at a later date). The process includes evaluating all library facilities and studying service area data and projections, trends and demographics.

The planning process will include the Library Director, several Library Trustees, and Library staff, along with representatives from the community. A Planning Committee of about 20-25 members will be established. The time line projects of the plan will be completed by December for approval by the library’s Board of Trustees.