Table of Contents
Page 2
Library and Bookmobile Hours
Page 3
A Letter from our CEO
Page 4
We've Moved! + Holiday Home Tour
Page 5
Hispanic and Native American Heritage Months
Page 6-7
Speaking of Books - 11th Season Announced!
Page 8
Harvest your Health
Page 9
Trendy TV Trivia + Picture Book Palooza
Page 10
Melodies in Motion + Storytimes
Page 11
Reconnect with ReadingFrom our Collections Department
Library Hours
Main Library (330) 452-0665
Jackson Community
7487 Fulton Dr. NW, Massillon (330) 833-1010
Lake Community
565 Market Ave. SW, Uniontown (330) 877-9975
Mon–Thu .... 9:00am–8:00pm
Fri–Sat ........ 9:00am–5:00pm
Sun..............Closed
North
189 25th St. NW, Canton (330) 456-4356
Perry Sippo
5710 12th St. NW, Canton (330) 477-8482
Mon–Thu ....9:00am–8:00pm
Fri–Sat ........ 9:00am–5:00pm
Sun..............1:00pm–5:00pm Open on Sundays starting September 8th, 2025
DeHoff Memorial
216 Hartford Ave. SE, Canton (330) 452-9014
East Canton
224 N Wood St., East Canton (330) 488-1501
Madge Youtz
2921 Mahoning Rd. NE, Canton (330) 452-2618
Plain Community
1803 Schneider St. NE, Canton (330) 494-3399
Southgate
3025 Cleveland Ave. SW Canton (330) 484-6814
Mon–Tue ..... 9:00am–8:00pm
Wed–Thu .... 9:00am–6:00pm
Fri–Sat ........ 9:00am–5:00pm
Sun..............Closed
Main Library will be in a new location starting Monday, October 6, 2025.
Main Library is temporarily closed to the public Saturday, August 30, 2025 through Sunday, October 5, 2025.
Before October 6th, 2025
715 Market Ave. N, Canton
October 6th, 2025 and Beyond 1020 Market Ave. N, Canton
Learn more about our move on page 4.
Stark Library Holiday Closures: September 1 - Labor Day November 26 - Closes early at 5:00pm November 27 – Thanksgiving Day
Bookmobile
To see this Fall's full schedule head to StarkLibrary.org/bookmobiles/
Friends of the Library Book Sales
Main Library
FOL Garage, North of the Library
Saturdays: September 13, October 4, November 8 | 9:00am-5:00pm
Wednesdays: September 17, October 8, November 19 | 1:00pm-5:00pm
GRATITUDE FOR FALL & SO MANY THINGS….!
This Fall I want to express my gratitude for so many things...
Gratitude for the changing of the seasons – something we Ohioans have the privilege to witness with four distinct seasons throughout the year. Fall brings fresh school supplies, new books to read, and a buzz of excitement where new learning adventures await.
Gratitude for not only the unbelievable love and support from YOU for our Speaking of Books events (four SOLD-OUT this past year), but also for our 2025/26 fantastic author line-up including actor B.J. Novak and actress Marlee Matlin, both appearing at the Canton Palace Theatre this Fall! See more details and full line-up on page 6 and 7.
Gratitude for our creative Stark Library Staff, dedicated Stark Library Board, enthusiastic Stark Library Foundation, and hard-working Friends of Stark Library for all of their hard work every day – furthering the Mission of our Library.
Gratitude for starting the final chapter of our Re|imagine 2.0 story with Main Library’s temporary move to 1020 Market Ave N, and for all of YOU showing support for us as we navigate some downtime at Main Library in the transition. We promise you, our NEW! Main Library Campus will be so worth it. Learn more about Main Library’s move on page 4.
As September begins, so does National Library Card Sign-Up Month! This year, I’d be so very grateful to have you and your friends/family join, explore, and utilize all that Stark Library has to offer by signing up for your FREE library card. Signing up is easy – walk-in to one of our locations and sign up in person, or sign up electronically now on our website at
StarkLibrary.org/ecard
We can’t wait to see you, and the changing leaves, soon.
Mary
Ellen Icaza, CEO & Executive Director
Board of Trustees
Steven Pittman President
Susan Rodgers Vice President
Sally Efremoff Secretary
Robert F. Belden Board Member
Joseph French Board Member
Robin Mingo-Miles Board Member
Daniel Petricini Board Member
Administration
Mary Ellen Icaza CEO & Executive Director
Chris Butler Fiscal Officer & Director of Facilities
Shanna Springer Sr. Director of Operations & HR
Jen Welsh Sr. Director of Public Services
Danielle Attar Marketing & Communications Director
Marianna DiGiacomo Community Services Director
Brad Sayre Information Technology Director
Jen Stencel Director of Branch Services
Megan Villono Library Collections Director
Main Library is on the Move!
As we continue moving into our temporary Main Library building at 1020 Market Ave N, our current Main Library building (located at 715 Market Ave N.) will be closed to the public starting Saturday, August 30, 2025 thorugh Sunday, October 5, 2025.
During this closure — we’re still here for you! Free WiFi (outside) and 24/7 book drop will remain available at 715 Market Ave. N. In addition, our Bookmobile will continue to provide key services, including holds pick-up, notary services, Backpack for Kids meal distribution, and opportunities to browse and check out materials. See the full schedule at... StarkLibrary.org/movefaqs
Learn more about our move at
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
DEHOFF MEMORIAL
Icons & Influences: A Hispanic Heritage Celebration
Wed Sep 17 | 3:00pm-4:00pm
Play Guess Who with a twist! Discover iconic Hispanic Americans and their impact—plus, make tasty fruit cups inspired by the culture! W T
LAKE COMMUNITY
Frida, Pura and Hispanic Heritage
Sat Sep 13 | 2:30pm-3:30pm
Join us to learn about Frida Kahlo, a Mexican painter who created vibrant paintings and Pura Belpre who was the first female Afro-Puerto Rican librarian in New York City. LW
NORTH
Ojo de Dios
Tue Sep 16 | 6:00pm-7:30pm
Ojo de Dios (God’s Eye) is a votive object prominently found in Latin America as well as Mexico and Peru. Learn about the origins and create your own. A
Fantastical Beasts: Alebrijes
Mon Sep 22 | 6:00pm-7:30pm
Join us for a journey into the world of alebrijes, the fantastical creatures born from Mexican folk art. WT
Flavor Fiesta
Thu Sep 25 | 6:00pm-7:00pm
Enjoy a Flavor Fiesta while learning about nutrition, food prep, cooking, and more with Central State University Extension. W T
An Evening with Meng Su Thu Oct 2 | 6:00pm-7:30pm
Join Meng Su, classical guitarist, for a talk and masterclass featuring Canton City Schools students. In partnership with the Canton Symphony Orchestra. A
PERRY SIPPO
Tissue Paper Art: Papel Picado
Thu Oct 9 | 6:00pm-7:00pm
Join us in creating Papel Picado banners to celebrate and learn about Hispanic Heritage Month! A
PLAIN COMMUNITY
Quitapeñas Party! Sat Sep 27 | 10:30am-12:30pm Hear the legend surrounding Guatemalan Worry Dolls (Muñecas Quitapeñas) through a short story, and create your own to take home to soothe your worries. LW
SOUTHGATE
Felt Pumpkins
Mon Sep 22 | 6:00pm-7:30pm Craft three felt pumpkins to welcome autumn and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! A
Movies @ Southgate: Frida (rated R) A Mon Sep 29 | 3:00pm-5:00pm
Movies @ Southgate: Encanto (rated PG) ELW TA Sat Oct 18 | 1:00pm-3:00pm
Honor Native American Heritage Month
LAKE COMMUNITY
The Portage Path
Tue Nov 18 | 6:30pm-7:30pm
Join Dr. Megan Shaeffer, supervisor of Cultural Resources at Summit Metro Parks for a presentation on the history of the Portage Path. A
Dreamweaver's Workshop
Sat Nov 22 | 2:30pm-3:30pm Enjoy a reading of The RoughFace Girl by Rafe Martin, learn about the Native American Dream Catcher, and make one of your own! LW
E Early Learners | L Elementary | W Tweens | T Teens | A Adults E Early Learners | L Elementary | W Tweens | T Teens | A Adults
MADGE YOUTZ
Movies @ Madge Youtz: Brother Bear (rated PG) Sat Nov 15 | 2:00pm–4:00pm Lights! Camera! Action! ELW TA
MAIN LIBRARY
What was the Hopewell Culture?
Sat Nov 8 | 2:00pm–3:00pm Come learn about this ancient culture and the brilliance of the earthworks they built. A
NORTH
Movie & Discussion: Killers of the Flower Moon (rated R) Sat Nov 8 | 12:00pm-4:30p
The movie will start at noon with the discussion following at 4pm. Come for one or both. A
Weave It Up! NativeInspired Bowl Craft Sat Nov 22 | 3:00pm-4:30pm Get crafty with this fun DIY woven basket! LW T
PLAIN COMMUNITY
Totem Tales: Unleashing Your Inner Spirit Animal Mon Nov 10 | 6:30pm-7:30pm
Enjoy a story about a totem coming to life. Then figure out YOUR Spirit Animal. Create a totem pole that represents YOU! LW
SOUTHGATE
Movies @ Southgate: Smoke Signals (rated PG-13) A Mon Nov 17 | 3:00pm–5:00pm
11TH SEASON
StarkLibrary.org/SpeakingofBooks StarkLibrary.org/SpeakingofBooks
This season of our acclaimed author series features powerful stories you won't want to miss! All four upcoming Speaking of Books events are FREE and open to the public. Optional upgraded tickets will also be available for purchase. Visit our website for more event info including ticket release dates per author.
B.J. Novak
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Canton Palace Theatre
B.J. Novak is a writer, actor, and comedian best known for his work on NBC’s Emmy Award winning comedy The Office. Since achieving mainstream success, he has added best-selling author to his resume. Novak is author of One More Thing and The Book with No Pictures, which spent two full years on the New York Times Picture Book List and 34 weeks charting as the #1 seller in the country.
Marlee Matlin
Thursday, November 6, 2025
Canton Palace Theatre
Marlee Matlin received worldwide critical acclaim for her film debut in Children of a Lesser God for which she received the Academy Award for Best Actress. In addition to her film, TV, and stage work, Marlee has also penned three novels for children, as well as her New York Times best-selling autobiography, I’ll Scream Later. Marlee’s journey is an inspiration to everyone, regardless of the barriers they face.
Terry Virts
Thursday, March 19, 2026
First Christian Church Auditorium
Colonel Terry Virts served in the US Air Force as a fighter pilot, test pilot, and NASA astronaut on two spaceflights. He also famously took more than 319,000 photographs from space— more than any other astronaut. Virts is the author of three books including The Astronaut's Guide to Leaving the Planet and How to Astronaut: An Insider’s Guide to Leaving Planet Earth, which is a firsthand account of his over seven months in space!
Derek Hough
Thursday, April 23, 2026
First Christian Church Auditorium
Season after season, millions of fans tune into Dancing with the Stars to watch three-time Emmy Award winner Derek Hough, the talented, consummate competitor whose skill and commitment made him the show's all- time champion. Hough is the author of New York Times Best-Seller Taking the Lead: Lessons from a Life in Motion.
The Speaking of Books Author
Series is named for accomplished Stark County based author and devoted Library supporter, Dr. Audrey Lavin.
HARVEST YOUR HEALTH
E Early Learners | L Elementary | W Tweens | T Teens | A Adults
DEHOFF MEMORIAL
Medicare 101
Wed Oct 1 | 10:00am-11:00am
Join us as we learn about the basics of Medicare and discover all the options. A
EAST CANTON
Tai Chi for Arthritis: Presented by OSU Extension
Mon | 12:00pm-1:00pm
Sep 29, Oct 6, Oct 13, Oct 20, Oct 27, Nov 3, Nov 10, Nov 17
Learn to utilize Tai Chi’s Sun Style for its ability to improve relaxation, balance, and more. A
Stored for a Rainy Day: Presented by the OSU Extension
Mon Oct 13 | 4:00pm-5:00pm
Learn to save the best food of the season through methods such as freezing and canning. A
Train for the Job You Want
Mon Oct 27 | 4:00pm-5:00pm
Learn about resources to prepare yourself for the job you want. Presented by Ohio Means Jobs. A
Sleep Disorders 101: Presented by Cleveland Clinic
Tue Nov 18 | 4:00pm-5:00pm
Join experts from Mercy Sleep Clinic to learn about sleep disorders, and what you can do. A
JACKSON COMMUNITY
10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s
Fri Sep 5 | 10:00am-11:00am Mon Sep 8 | 6:00pm-7:00pm
Learn the signs of Alzheimer’s and what to watch for in yourself or loved ones. Presented by Alzheimer's Association. There are two sessions available. A
How to Prepare for Unexpected Challenges
Thu Sep 11 | 2:00pm-3:30pm
Explore best practices for families navigating senior lifestyles and care options. Presented by Senior Care Authority. A
Medicare 101
Mon Nov 24 | 6:00pm-7:30pm
Approaching 65? Learn about Medicare options and decisions in this step-by-step presentation, designed to simplify the process and help you choose coverage. A
LAKE COMMUNITY
60 Hikes within 60 Miles : Sponsored by Lake FOL
Tue Oct 7 | 6:30pm-7:30pm
Author and hiking expert Diane Stresing discusses her book 60 Hikes within 60 Miles . Diane's book, will be available for purchase and signing. A
MAIN LIBRARY
Preventing Falls: Presented by Direction Home
Tue Oct 21 | 11:00am-12:00pm
Learn practical fall prevention tips for adults that support safety, activity, and independence. A
A Laugh a Day: Presented by the OSU Extension
Thu Oct 23 | 12:00pm-1:00pm
Come join us as we learn how laughing every day is good for both your mental and physical health. A
Rewilding Death
Mon Nov 10 | 5:30pm-7:30pm
Explore the world of death care as a licensed social worker and registered nurse delve into funeral alternatives that allow families to stay involved and connected during the final stages of life. A
Stress Relief
Sat Nov 15 | 3:00pm-4:00pm
Find healthy ways of dealing with stress. We'll try breathing exercises, making a sensory bottle, and a DIY stress ball. LW T
NORTH
Caregivers Support Group
Tue | 2:00pm-3:30pm
Sep 9, Oct 14, Nov 11
A support group for caregivers of aging or disabled loved ones led by Direction Home. A
Spice It Up: Cardamom
Wed Sep 17 | 2:00pm-3:00pm
Learn about cardamom's origins, health benefits, how to use it, what it tastes like, and more! Presented by Central State University Extension. A
Bread - We All Knead It!
Tue Sep 23 | 2:00pm-3:30pm
Learn about bread making and the tools needed to make bread. Elizabeth Schweigert from Central State University will also have samples of bread recipes. A
Personal Safety and Situational Awareness
Thu Nov 13 | 2:00pm-3:00pm
Jim Knight, Canton's Crime Prevention Specialist, shows how to protect yourself while shopping this holiday season. A
PERRY SIPPO
Social Security 101
Mon Sep 8 | 6:00pm-7:00pm
Learn from a representative from the Social Security Administration about the ins and outs of Social Security. A
Hike N' Learn
with Stark Parks
Wed Sep 17 | 10:00am-11:00am
Meet at the Library for a hike with Library and Parks staff and listen to stories to learn about local flora and fauna! EL
Sleep Health
Mon Oct 20 | 2:00pm-3:00pm
Join experts from Mercy Sleep Clinic to learn about sleep disorders. A
Memory Care Cafe
Sat Oct 25 | 2:00pm-3:00pm
Create enjoyable connections with care partners and those living with dementia in a safe, relaxing space. A
PLAIN COMMUNITY
True Colors for Caregivers
Tue Sep 16 | 6:00pm-7:00pm
This program helps caregivers understand themselves and those they care for. Presented by OSU Extension. A
Memory Care Cafe
Fri Sep 26 | 10:30am-11:30am
Create enjoyable connections with care partners and those living with dementia. A
SOUTHGATE
A Matter of Balance
Tue | 1:00pm-3:00pm Sep 2, Sep 9, Sep 16, Sep 23, Sep 30, Oct 7, Oct 14, Oct 21 This program is designed to manage falls and increase activity levels. The course is 8 weeks, 2 hours per week. Presented by Aultman Hospital A
TRENDY TV TRIVIA
Test your TV knowledge and win prizes - friendly competition guaranteed!
DEHOFF MEMORIAL
Golden Girls A Sat Sep 20 | 2:00pm–3:00pm
EAST CANTON
Parks and Recreation A
Mon Sep 29 | 4:00pm–5:00pm
JACKSON COMMUNITY
Friends A Mon Oct 6 | 6:00pm–7:00pm
LAKE COMMUNITY
I Love Lucy A Tue Oct 14 | 6:00pm–7:00pm
MADGE YOUTZ
Fresh Prince of Bel-Air A Mon Sep 22 | 6:00pm–7:00pm
NORTH
The Big Bang Theory A Sat Sep 27 | 2:00pm–3:00pm
PERRY SIPPO
The Office A Wed Oct 8 | 6:00pm–7:00pm
P LAIN COMMUNITY
Schitt's Creek A Tue Sep 9 | 6:00pm–7:00pm
SOUTHGATE
The Andy Griffith Show A Mon Sep 15 | 6:00pm–7:00pm
E Early Learners | L Elementary | W Tweens | T Teens | A Adults P
icture B ook Palooza
DEHOFF MEMORIAL
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
Mon Nov 3 | 10:00am–11:00am
Join us for a Picture Book Palooza celebrating Brown Bear, Brown Bear! Explore sequencing and coding through storytime with fun, hands-on stations! EL
EAST CANTON
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Wed Nov 19 | 10:00am–11:00am
Join us for a lively reading of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, followed by themed crafts and activities. EL
FRY FAMILY PARK
Hiking Day
Sat Nov 1 | 2:00pm–3:00pm
It's a great day for a hike! First we'll read about one, then we'll take one! EL
JACKSON COMMUNITY
I SPY
Wed Nov 19 | 6:00pm–7:00pm
Explore a life-sized version of I Spy as the whole library comes alive! EL
LAKE COMMUNITY
Where the Wild Things Are
Mon Nov 10 | 6:00pm–7:30pm
Come enjoy an interactive readaloud of Where the Wild Things Are, travel through our jungle themed obstacle course, and paint a forest or make a Wild Thing. EL
MADGE
The Dot
YOUTZ
Sat Nov 8 | 2:00pm–3:00pm
Explore creativity with The Dot ! During storytime, kids will paint their own dot, then let their imaginations guide them to turn it into flowers, animals, and more! EL
MAIN LIBRARY
The Gruffalo
Mon Nov 17 | 4:30pm–5:30pm
Have you ever heard of a Gruffalo? Learn all about them from Mouse in this classic picture book, then try some Gruffalo inspired activities. EL
NORTH
I Love My White Shoes
Fri Nov 14 | 10:00am–11:00am
Walk through the book I Love My White Shoes and encounter what happens to Pete the Cat's shoes along the way. EL
PERRY SIPPO
We're Going on a Bear Hunt
Wed Nov 12 | 10:00am–11:00am
We are bringing Michael Rosen's classic to life with a life-size bear hunt! Join us for a short storytime and craft, then prepare to navigate all our obstacles. EL
PLAIN COMMUNITY
Elmer
Sat Nov 22 | 10:00am–12:00pm
What makes Elmer the Elephant so special? Follow along with his adventures as he realizes it is OK to be different. Celebrate his differences, and yours, as you create your very own Elmer. EL
SOUTHGATE
Dog's Colorful Day
Sat Nov 15 |10:00am–12:00pm
Have a day as colorful as Dog's, with songs and stories, a collaborative group activity, and a fun take-home craft! EL
Melodies in Motion
E Early Learners | L Elementary | W Tweens | T Teens | A Adults
Explore the harmony of music, dance, and stories accompanied by Canton Symphony Orchestra or Canton Ballet.
DEHOFF MEMORIAL
Canton Symphony Orchestra EL Mon Oct 20 | 11:30am–12:30pm
EAST CANTON
Canton Ballet EL
Wed Oct 15 | 10:00am–11:00am
JACKSON COMMUNITY
Canton Symphony Orchestra EL Tue Oct 21 | 11:30am–12:30pm
LAKE COMMUNITY
Canton Symphony Orchestra EL Thu Oct 23 | 10:00am–11:00am
MADGE YOUTZ
Canton Ballet EL Thu Oct 16 | 10:00am–11:00am
MAIN LIBRARY
Canton Ballet EL Thu Oct 16 | 11:30am–12:30pm
NORTH
Canton Ballet EL Wed Oct 15 | 11:30am–12:30pm
PERRY SIPPO
Canton Ballet EL Mon Oct 13 | 10:00am–11:00am
PLAIN COMMUNITY
Canton Symphony Orchestra EL Tue Oct 21 | 10:00am–11:00am
SOUTHGATE
Canton Symphony Orchestra EL Mon Oct 20 | 10:00am–11:00am
Reconnect with Reading!
Digital devices are great for staying connected, but sometimes the best connection is with yourself. Take a break from the buzz and dive into the quiet joy of print books. Whether you're craving a thrilling escape, a heartfelt story, or a mind-expanding journey, our collection has something for every reader, every age, and every mood! free, it's relaxing, and it’s the perfect way to recharge—no Wi-Fi required.
Do you love conversation? If socializing and sharing your thoughts about what you’re reading appeals to you, try joining one of our many book clubs. Meetings, times, and dates are here: StarkLibrary.org/book-clubs
Are you an informed shopper? If you prefer to own and display the books you read (because who doesn’t love an interesting cover?), why not conserve your bookstore budget and test out those tempting titles from the Library before you buy? Explore our collection here: StarkLibrary.org/books
May we recommend it? Get assistance from a personalized book browser (aka your local Librarian) to help you find your perfect book match. Fill out a Reading Recommendations Form and one of our Librarians will find titles just for you, based on your areas of interest. Sign up now here: StarkLibrary.org/reading-recommendations
Did you seek but not find? If you want a particular book that you can’t find in our catalog, don’t despair. Instead, suggest the title to us, and we’ll investigate potentially adding it to our collection: StarkLibrary.org/suggest-an-item
Can you encourage a young reader? We could fill a book – and many folks have – about the benefits of print books for children and young adults. Reading with children improves brain and language development, caregiver-child bonding, and preparation for school. If you’re not sure where to start, visit our Early Learners page here: StarkLibrary.org/early-learners, for information about activities like 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, that are fun and easy ways to read, grow closer, have fun, and earn prizes with your little one.
Keep the good stuff going as kids start school and beyond! Reading that continues into the teenage years encourages emotional well-being and boosts academic performance and social skills. Stark Library offers Homework Help: StarkLibrary.org/homework-help, test prep databases: StarkLibrary.org/resource, programs, and popular reading picks for teens to explore: StarkLibrary.org/teens
- Stark Library Collections Department
Free to to anyone who lives, works, or studies in Ohio Allows you to borrow up to 50 items at a time!
Scan QR Code for ALL Fall Events!
Autumn adventures await—join us for a season full of stories, learning, and fun for all ages!
