THANK YOU!
Thanks to all library users for contacting the Governor and our legislators about the proposed cuts to library funding.  They have heard your message.  Our elected officials have a very challenging task to develop a budget that is in everyone’s best interests. 

We now encourage you to send them another email, letting them know that you appreciate the hard work they have to develop a budget that is in everyone’s best interest.  We will keep this section of the website updated with the latest information we have. >>click here

Be Creative at Your Library June 1 - August 31.
Attend a program. Read for incentives and prizes. Sign up today at a library near you!
Kids: Read to win a Squeeze Flashlight - no batteries required!
Parents, Grandparents: Read to your baby and get a Baby Brilliant baby bottle.
Teens: Read for a chance at a really cool prize.
All this and more - and it's free at your library!
>>More on Summer Reading

>>What's happening at a branch near you

The economy's impact on libraries is serious. How does that affect Mahoning County's library system?
Today’s Library is growing to meet the needs of an evolving community - even in this challenging economic climate.  Library use is up. That’s the good news.  In times of economic downturn, the community is relying on its libraries for essential services.  But like so many other organizations, the Library is also experiencing a decline in funding due to the economy.  And although your library is in an unavoidable situation where cuts in spending are required, we remain dedicated to providing the best library service possible while remaining fiscally responsible. >>Learn more

Hours at some of our library branches have changed. Click here to view the latest hours by location. The changes in hours are minor and cut only 10 hours per week system wide. But the impact on the Library's budget is sizeable, saving about $400,000 per year due to changes in staffing patterns. Mahoning County's libraries are still open to the public 744.5 hours each week.
>>Locations and Hours
>>News Release on Hours Change

NOW OPEN: Chapters Cafes in Poland, Austintown , Newport and East Libraries.
Chapters Cafes are now up-and-running at three libraries, featuring great coffee, good food, a chance to sit quietly with a good book or your laptop computer, or visit with friends. TBC@Chapters operates the cafes in Poland and Austintown. New Seasonings@Chapters operates the cafe in Newport and East. Stop in today!

East Branch Library and Cafe NOW OPEN. The newly constructed East Branch located at the corner of East High Avenue and Early Road, opened January 24. The new library was dedicated Monday, February 16, 2009. New Seasonings@Chapters Cafe is also now open in the East Library.
>>more

Library Now Offers Audiobooks for Your iPod!
Popular and classic audiobooks in the MP3 format are now available for download 24/7 from the Library’s website. The new DRM-free format, OverDrive MP3 Audiobook, is compatible with Apple iPod® players, as well as hundreds of other MP3 players including those from Creative, Sony, Samsung, Rio, SanDisk, and most cell phones. more>>

Libraries - Making Ohio Stronger
Ohio residents saved almost $4 billion collectively by checking out more than 172 million library items in one year in public libraries. What a savings! Seven million residents have library cards - that's 60% of Ohioans. Ohio's libraries have some 10,000 computers providing free Internet access.
To find out more about Ohio's libraries >>>

The Library is a SOLUTION to the many needs of our community
Libraries make communities stronger by having a positive impact on their economy. View the Library's video on YouTube to learn more.
>>more

Look Who's Reading!
Does reading lead to success? We think so! To demonstrate,
The Library created a series of posters featuring community leaders who made reading a part of their successful lives.
>>view the posters by clicking here