Parma Heights Library Is An Important Landmark On Route 42.

The Parma Heights Library might be one of the most important historic buildings in Parma Heights. While Route 42 is more often thought of as a major thoroughfare connecting various smaller towns, these areas offer a variety of experiences that highlight the cultural, historical, and natural beauty of the regions it passes through. The old library would be the perfect place to host the Parma Heights Historical Society, and a teen/senior center. A museum can increase our sense of well-being, help us feel proud of where we have come from, can inspire, challenge and stimulate us, and become a destination spot for locals and visitors.
OK, is this idea too far-fetched? Could the considerable talents of both the historical society and Parma Heights residents be lashed together to finally bring this important project to reality? There are millions of dollars in grants available and community residents that want to donate.
U.S. Route 42 (US 42) is a significant east-west highway in the eastern United States, spanning approximately 350 miles. It begins in Louisville, Kentucky, and ends in Cleveland, Ohio. Unlike many U.S. highways, US 42 does not extend across the country and serves as a regional connector.. Entering Ohio, the highway moves through cities like Cincinnati, where you will encounter Fountain Square with historic fountains and a great spot to experience local events and food. U.S. Route 42 also passes though historic downtown Lebanon, a charming town with preserved 19th-century buildings and shops. Yellow Springs, a quirky town known for its artistic vibe, and eco-conscious community with the nearby Glen Helen Nature Preserve. Cedarville is a beautiful small town originally settled by Irish and Scottish immigrants in 1799, and is the home to Cedarville University, which has a nice campus and lake that are open to public visits. And one can't forget about Mansfiled, Ashland, and Medina. Then there is the Parma Heights Library on US 42 where Parma Heights was the first municipality in Ohio to pass a bond issue specifically for the construction of a library, and the library is the perfect example of the architectural style known as Googie (pronounced ghoo-ghee, with two hard G’s).
It might be a history that maybe is not as important as the bigger histories that are taught, but nonetheless, it is important to many who live here. It's time for the city to conduct a full survey of its historic resources to understand where to dedicate resources and attention. To my knowledge, it has never been done. Every city has a different attitude about saving historic structures. The community’s interest is shown with 400 signatures to re-purpose the library. Among preservationists, some of whom use social media to ping others there’s much optimism. Parma Heights needs a city preservation plan. It would be a community endeavor to look at priorities in Parma Heights so that we’re being very thoughtful and energetic about preservation, not just admiring old photos on Facebook. Politicians and the public have to make preservation a priority. Everyone should learn about how historic preservation ordinances should change. Developers could also learn more about the incentives that can make rehabbing historic buildings more attractive financially.
Buildings renewed and reused keep Parma Heights unique character alive! Preservation isn't always about grand landmarks. Many not-so-glamorous buildings have been saved around Cuyahoga County, preserving not only our structures but our sense of place. In saving older buildings, we preserve much more than bricks and mortar. We preserve our collective memory of the places that add meaning to our lives.
Emery Pinter
Worked in marketing research, marketing, and was a Librarian and Bookstore Manager. Advocate for small businesses. Member of the Parma Heights Front Porch Forum, 2ND Fridays Parma Heights, the Dig, Plant, and Grow Garden Club, and believes preserving historical assets and buildings are a key ingredient to any city.