As Aimee Fifarek, the PLYMC's executive director and chief executive officer, speaks about the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County project construction workers continue to work on the building. On the right side is the new Culinary Literacy Center. Staff photo / R. Michael Semple

Construction is wrapping up on $27 million worth of renovations and additions to the main branch of the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County in downtown Youngstown. News organizations got a sneak peek inside and outside on Thursday hosted by Aimee Fifarek, director and CEO. The additions include a 125-person meeting space, a Culinary Literacy Center, 36 computers, a digitization lab, eight study rooms with audio-visual capabilities, two electronic vehicle charging stations in the parking lot, a family engagement area that includes an open play area; and a do-it-yourself space, with a sewing machine, 3D printer, looms, a Cricut machine, a die-cutting machine and an audio-visual recording studio. The 112-year-old library building also went through its fourth round of renovation, including the restored glass skylight “Parthenon” frieze in the Grand Reading Room and a restoration of the Wick Avenue steps and bronze doors.