What is this?
The Plymouth Express is a monthly(ish) newsletter that highlights the stories, people, places, and small wonders that make our community unique. It’s a blend of updates, local highlights, and contributions from neighbors like you. Think of it as a local paper meets public journal meets bulletin board.
We’ll publish it both digitally (right here on Substack) and in print — a four-page, newspaper-style edition you’ll be able to pick up at the library and around town.
How does it work?
This is community-powered publishing. Each issue will include:
Short essays, stories, or interviews
Photos, drawings, or art from local creators
Recommendations, recipes, memories, shout-outs
Upcoming events or initiatives you think people should know about
The tone is neighborly, positive, and welcoming — like a walk down Main Street in print form.
You don’t need to be a writer. You just need to care about this place and want to share something real. Neighbors who join our monthly Community Journalism Club will help polish where needed. Think of us as your editors and cheerleaders.
Want to contribute?
We’re looking for:
Personal stories about local experiences
Hidden histories or fun facts about Plymouth
Spotlights on local groups or unsung heroes
Dispatches from classrooms, gardens, kitchens, sidewalks
Anything else that shines a light on community life
Use this form to pitch an idea or submit a piece. You can also email us at info@plymouthlibrary.org and your message will be sent to a staff member who can help.
We are also welcoming participants at our monthly Community Journalism Club meetings, a casual, all-ages gathering where we read through submissions, talk about what to include in the next print edition, and brainstorm ideas for future issues. It’s a great way to meet neighbors, stay connected to what’s happening locally, and play a hands-on role in telling our community’s story. No editorial experience required — come once or come every month.
Not ready to contribute yet? Subscribe to follow along and share The Plymouth Express with someone you know who should be involved.
Why is the library doing this?
As your public library, we believe in access, literacy, and community voice. The Plymouth Express is part of a new library publishing effort to help residents tell their stories, document local culture, and connect with one another — in print and online.
Together, we’re making space for more voices, more creativity, and more connection. Thanks for being here at the beginning.