MAHONING COUNTY, Ohio (WKBN) – Sunday marks the start of National Library Week and the Youngstown and Mahoning County Public Library (PLYMC) has planned activities to celebrate.

National Library Week began in 1958 and is observed by libraries across the country in April. This year’s theme is Connect with Your Library.

This week is an opportunity to learn more about what the library offers to the community. The library is no longer just for books, but much more.

“Libraries are not just a place to come and check out books, but we offer classes, we offer programs and things that we have been able to move virtually during the pandemic. But having them in person, there’s nothing quite like that,” said Maggie Henderson, PLYMC’s strategic communications manager.

There are a few opportunities to connect with your local library staff this week.

On Tuesday, you are encouraged to thank your favorite library branch. You can use the hashtag #ThanksPLYMCStaff to share your appreciation.

Wednesday is National Library Awareness Day. PLYMC is hosting a pop-up library at the Jewish Community Center.

Throughout the week people are encouraged to donate money to help make the library the best it can be. You can direct your donations to a variety of library services.