2026 COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT

A Message from the Executive Director

The Allen County Public Library stands proud as a cornerstone of local engagement, evidenced by our circulation rate reaching 11.8 items per capita—nearly twice the national average—reflecting the community’s reliance on and appreciation for our services.

Our role extends far beyond lending books. Through expanded programming, outreach efforts, and over 11,000 gatherings hosted in our facilities, we continue to foster connection, lifelong learning, and opportunity for all.

This commitment is visible in our growing patron base. We welcomed more than 22,000 new members this year, including 8,000 students via our partnership with Fort Wayne Community Schools, bringing library card ownership to 57% of county residents and surpassing 1.6 million total visits. These figures highlight the deep value placed on our resources and the necessity of continued support for future generations.

As you review this report, I hope you share my pride in seeing measurable results from an institution devoted to serving its community. Our dedication remains unwavering, and we are grateful you are part of our journey.

Susan P. Baier, Executive Director

Allen County Public Library

librarydirector@acpl.info

By the Numbers

221,743

Registered Patrons
57% of Allen County Residents

14 Locations

Serving Allen County

1.6+ Million

Library Visits

4.5+ Million

Items Borrowed1.4+ Million

Children's Items Borrowed

If this library was located in another city, I’d drive there—for the staff alone!

6,833

Library Programs

1,780

Community Outreach Events

Borrowing

(per capita)

Loans

to other libraries worldwide

962,148

Public Wi-Fi Sessions

6,986

New Dolly Parton’sImagination Library Participants

13.3%

Spent on Books & Materials 
(State Standard: 8%)

11,427

Public Uses of
Meeting Room

52,751

Genealogy Center Visits

22,215