Community spotlight: Youngstown Free Library & the Friends who keep it thriving

By Colleen Stortecky

Nestled in the heart of Youngstown, the Youngstown Free Library has long been a cornerstone of learning, connection and community spirit. Located at 240 Lockport St., this inviting neighborhood library serves residents of Youngstown, the Town of Porter, and surrounding areas with a mission to “inspire learning and provide access to a vast range of information and resources for patrons of all ages.”

From children’s story hours and after-school activities to adult book clubs, technology help sessions, and local history collections, the Youngstown Free Library offers something for everyone – making it one of the most beloved gathering places in the Niagara Region.

Friends of the Youngstown Free Library: Champions behind the shelves

Behind many of the programs, events and enhancements at the library stands a dedicated volunteer group: the Friends of the Youngstown Free Library. This local, not-for-profit organization plays a vital role in keeping the library strong, welcoming, and forward-looking.

The Friends are the library’s primary fundraisers, providing financial and volunteer support that extends far beyond the regular operating budget. Their efforts fund new materials and equipment, sponsor enrichment programs, and help maintain the warm, well-resourced atmosphere the community has come to love.

They organize events such as fall and spring book sales, membership drives, and other fun events throughout the year, with all proceeds directly benefiting the library’s services and collections. In addition to fundraising, the Friends also serve as ambassadors – promoting the importance of the library throughout the community, and helping to connect neighbors through shared appreciation for literacy and learning.

Now seeking new members

The Friends of the Library are always looking for new members to join the Friends’ board and help continue this important work. The board meets once a month, and meetings are always fun and productive. Becoming a Friend means joining a team of people who care deeply about literacy, community connection, and the future of Youngstown’s local library. Members are invited to participate in meetings, volunteer at events, and enjoy special benefits such as early access to the book sale preview night.

Those interested can stop by the library to pick up a membership form or visit youngstownfreelibrary.org for more information.

Mark your calendar: Spring book sale fundraiser

The Friends’ biggest fundraiser of the year – the annual spring book sale – is just around the corner!

A members’ preview night will take place from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, May 7. Preview night is open exclusively to Friends members – join today to get first pick!

The public sale runs from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, May 8, and from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at the Youngstown Red Brick Gym.

Thousands of gently used books will be available – fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, cookbooks and more – all sorted and ready to browse. It’s a perfect opportunity to stock your shelves while supporting a great local cause. Proceeds directly fund library programs and improvements.

A library powered by community

The Youngstown Free Library is more than a place to borrow books – it’s a reflection of the community’s commitment to education, connection and culture. The Friends’ tireless fundraising and volunteer work ensure that the library continues to thrive as a welcoming hub for all.

Whether you donate books, attend the sale, or become a member, your involvement helps sustain a treasured local institution. Together, Youngstown can keep its library – and its love of learning – growing for generations to come.