Group donates $8,000 for reading program

YOUNGSTOWN -- Summer Discovery encourages participants of all ages to read, learn and explore through books, activities and engaging programs offered at every branch of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County.

The annual initiative helps prevent the "summer slide" while fostering a lifelong love of reading and learning throughout the community. The Friends of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County recently made a donation of $8,000 to PLYMC in support of Summer Discovery and literacy.

Nicole Fond, secretary of the Friends of PLYMC said, "Friends of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County is proud to support Summer Discovery. We love that this program encourages all ages (children, teens, adults) to read throughout the summer. Selecting a new book upon completion is a great incentive. Additionally, PLYMC's many events are an asset to our communities."

"Summer Discovery encourages and celebrates the value of reading and lifelong learning every day," said Pam Brockway, PLYMC Public Service Manager. "We are thrilled to see nearly 6,000 participants this year, the highest level of participation in the past eight years. This remarkable milestone reflects strong engagement across every age group and at every library branch. We're grateful for the generous support of the Friends of the Library and our many donors, whose commitment allows us to continue expanding this program and inspiring readers throughout our community."