Officials from the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County clarified a recent decision from the library’s board of directors on the future of the Poland branch at a press conference Thursday.

The library board voted this week to explore three options for the Poland branch.

“Following a comprehensive, yearlong assessment led by architects and specialized consultants of the deficiencies at the Poland branch library, the PLYMC Board voted on Tuesday to explore the relocation of the branch,” said Aimee Fifarek.

The yearlong study results contained three options for the Poland branch. Those options are maintaining the existing building with an estimated cost of $8.5 million, renovating the existing building at a cost estimate of $16.1 million and relocating the branch into a new or refurbished existing building with enough room for growth.

“We appreciate the robust discussion by the board on this incredibly important issue,” Fifarek said. “We have been assured by the experts that this building is safe for use [at present]. However, the problems facing this building date back to the original design and construction and they are not going away,” added Fifarek.

She said the goal is to ensure the longevity of the library services. She also noted the crucial term is “explore” at this point.

The library would require a centrally located and accessible site. She said the search would begin, but the other two options were still on the table.

If options 1 or 2 were selected, Fifarek said it would still mean closing the Poland branch and relocating services and materials to a temporary location. The relocation could last for up to two years.

“Superintendent [Craig] Hockenberry gave us a tour of Union School as a possible temporary site,” Fifarek said.

Following her short announcements, Library COO Jordan Shaver gave a tour of the facility and pointed out some of the problems. He said the biggest problem is the open hearth slag that was found under the foundation.

“We have buckling going on under the floor and the walkway outside,” he said.

He pointed out a bookcase in the eastern section of the lower floor that is on a tilt. He said the floor was heaving.

Outside, a broken pillar cap was evidence of the buckling going on under the walkway and back patio.

On the inside, Shaver gave a tour of the old section that served as the seminary dorm wing 175 years ago. Sections of that area were closed off due to needed restoration work.

Shaver spoke about Option 2 on the second floor and noted the area could be redone to make way for study rooms.

For now, the three options are under consideration.

“We will have a way for public input,” she said.

Fifarek said the public is welcome to provide feedback by calling the library, sending a letter or using the suggestion box at the branch.

At this point, Fifarek said she wanted to be open and update the public on the options under consideration.

Shaver mentioned that the air conditioning unit, which is 24 years old, is outdated, making it hard to find parts. He did say it would be fixed as soon as possible, regardless of what option the board selects.