Youngstown Rotary Observes Black History Month with Little Free Libraries

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — Rotary Club of Youngstown is observing Black History Month this February by stocking many of the Little Free Libraries located in the city with books that reflect greater reading diversity.

With the assistance of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County, the club purchased new books for the Little Free Libraries. Gently used books were also donated by the Public Library, as well as the community. Rotarians volunteered to stock the libraries with books.

“PLYMC was thrilled to partner with Youngstown Rotary for the Black History Month Little Free Library project,” says Aimee Fifarek, library executive director. “Library staff selected a collection of books that recognize, celebrate, and honor the history and important contributions of African Americans as well as appeal to all ages, reading levels, and interests. We hope that these materials will provide people with inspiration and spark conversations across Youngstown and beyond.”

Locations for Little Free Libraries stocked with the books include:

Downtown – Wean Park and 20 Federal Place

North Side – Wick Park, Jewish Community Center, private residences on Fairgreen and Fifth avenues, and on Cordova Avenue across from Harding Elementary School

West Side – Calvin Center on Mahoning Avenue, Rocky Ridge Neighbors garden, 100 block of South Hazelwood Avenue, and a private residence on Ridgelawn Avenue

East Side – YMHA Rockford Village, Dogwood Lane, and Give the Children a Chance Pavilion, South Truesdale Avenue

South Side – Oak Hill Collaborative; South Side Academy; and Boys & Girls Club of Youngstown

Pictured: Rotarians Aundrea Cika Heschmeyer, Josh Prest, President Samantha Turner, immediate past president Derrick McDowell, not-yet-Rotarian Elayne Bozick and Debora Flora with books.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.