Youngstown 4th Ward Councilwoman Carol Rimedio-Righetti, in conjunction with the Westside Coalition, is spearheading a community effort to prevent the closure of the Westside Library on Mahoning Ave.

The Board of Directors of the Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County voted to close the branch as a cost-cutting measure earlier this year. On June 12 the Board agreed to keep the branch open for two months after Councilwoman Rimedio-Righetti asked for time to work with businesses and residents in the ward to find the money needed to keep the branch open.

“The loss of this service is not only a quality of life issue for the Westside,” the Councilwoman said. "The constant chipping away at the foundation of stability in the Fourth Ward threatens the well-being of the entire City, and the surrounding region.”

A community rally and fund raising activities are now being planned and will be announced when finalized. Elected Officials and Community Leaders should take notice and assist in whatever way possible, the Library System is a Countywide entity, and it effects everyone.

Anyone interested in assisting should contact Councilwoman Rimedio-Righetti at 330-792-0967.