Why is Aboite closed?
In the summer of 2022, a strong storm hit the southwest side of Fort Wayne and did significant damage to the Aboite Branch’s roof and meeting room. Since then, it has been unavailable to the public. After much work with our insurance company and contractors, it is ready for construction. During the construction phase, it is unsafe for staff or patrons to be in the building, so it must remain closed.

How long will Aboite be closed?
As we all know, construction timelines can be difficult to predict with absolute certainty. BUT, our construction partners tell us it will be about 6 to 8 weeks. Construction kicks off on Sept. 4 and we hope to be open as soon as we possibly can. We will miss you all too!!

How can I get books and materials?
You can still access all books and materials from the ACPL system! Just search the catalog and place “holds” on the items you would like to check out. Choose another branch that will work for you while Aboite is closed – and we’ll have them delivered for you to that branch. You can also return books to any ACPL branch regardless of where you checked it out. Also, don’t forget that the entire virtual library is always available 24/7 and we will still have curbside pickup at all other locations for added convenience.

What about my books I already had on hold for Aboite?
No problem. We can transfer those for pickup at another location. You can do it yourself in your library account online or by calling (260) 421-1240. Custom collections may also be picked up at other ACPL locations. 

Wait. Won’t I get a bunch of fees if I can’t return my books?
Nope. First off, you can definitely still return your materials to any other ACPL branch even if you originally checked them out from Aboite. No worries, we’ll get them where they need to go. But, even if you don’t get them returned right away, we went Fine Free for Everyone last year, so if you’re a little delayed in finding a temporary location to return items to, you won’t get any overdue fees. 

Ok, but what can I definitely NOT do?
During the closure, you cannot enter the Aboite building. There will be no access to book browsing, meeting rooms, study rooms, programs, computers, holds pickups, curbside pickups, donation drop-offs, or book returns. You will also not be able to pick up custom collections at Aboite or access librarians on site. This affects only the Aboite Branch.

But isn't the Library planning major construction anyways?
Yes, we are still working on funding strategies for our future-facing, systemwide Facilities Master Plan. The Aboite construction, however, is primarily funded by insurance dollars following storm damage to the building. This construction will restore the building to the level of access and service it offered prior to the storm damage.

Does this mean my beloved Aboite librarians and staff aren’t working?
Aren't they wonderful? During construction, our team will be helping out at other ACPL locations. When you swing by another branch for your holds and returns, you might see them around! Our team will also be spending extra time in the community. They'll connect with schools, visit senior living communities, and maybe even offer pop-up storytimes in a neighborhood near you! When possible, these programs will be listed as events in the community so you will know where to find us!