Downtown Akron Partnership

From story hours for toddlers, a summer reading club for older children and break dancing workshops for teens, the Library has activities for children of all ages.

60 S High St
Akron, OH 44326
Telephone: (330) 643-9000

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NEWS ROOM

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Polymer Industry Cluster Applauds up to $160M NSF Engine Award as a Defining Win for Akron and Northeast OhioThe selection of the NEO-SMART Engine, led by Case Western Reserve University, for the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines program is a transformational win for Northeast Ohio’s advanced materials economy and a powerful validation of Akron’s role as the place where polymer innovation began and continues to lead. With up to $160 million available over 10 years, the award will expand the region’s capacity for manufacturing innovation, technology commercialization, workforce development and economic growth.

Mayor Malik Appoints Jessica Connell as Chief City Prosecutor and Elayna Saad Deputy Chief ProsecutorMayor Malik has appointed Jessica Connell as the City of Akron's next Chief City Prosecutor. Connell begins in the role today, July 13, 2026. She brings a wealth of criminal law experience to the position, including service as a public defender, assistant prosecutor, Police Legal Advisor, and most recently as the City's Domestic Violence and Community Prosecutor. Connell succeeds current Chief of Public Safety Craig Morgan, who previously served as the City's Chief City Prosecutor before joining Mayor Malik's administration to lead Akron's public safety efforts.

Akron Soul Train Presents Two Public Programs Exploring the Intersection of Art, Science, and Environmental StewardshipAkron Soul Train invites the community to participate in two free public programs led by Artist-in-Residence Josh Maxwell, whose current exhibition, Working Woods: Altered But Not Erased, examines the stories held within Northeast Ohio's forests and the lasting impact of ecological change. Blending art, science, and environmental stewardship, the programs encourage participants to move from observation to action through conversation, education, and hands-on community engagement.

In addition to funding from downtown business and property owners, Downtown Akron Partnership receives support from the following philanthropic organizations.