ACPL’s Facilities Master Plan: A Plan to Grow with the Community
Read on to learn about the plan to preserve and strengthen the library for today AND tomorrow!
“Every day we welcome 40-50 children after school in our branch. We are finding that we are able to engage the kids using the right methods, we just lack the space to accommodate them.”
-Stephen Platt, Georgetown Branch Manager
Branch Impacts
Read on to learn what could be possible if funding is approved:
The Aboite and Shawnee branches will be sold and new branches will be built nearby. Given the age, condition, and size of these buildings – this is the most efficient way to address the branches’ challenges and serve our rapidly growing community.
The Dupont, Georgetown, and Hessen Cassel branches will undergo heavy renovations to address accessibility, aging infrastructure, and space limitations.
The New Haven branch will undergo a medium renovation at its current location and the Main Library will see select updates to improve accessibility and create a more welcoming space.
Allen County is growing – to the tune of 10% growth since 2010.* During the same time, Indiana’s overall population grew 5.3% statewide. The ACPL has experienced that growth as well with more than 1.8 million visitors across its 14 locations just last year. The library hosted more than 6,000 in-person programs, drawing 122,000 attendees—a nearly 29% increase from the previous year.
“Essential and irreplaceable for the community as both a resource for all and a community center for those who need all of the events and help it offers, regardless of class or status”
-American Pulse survey respondent when
asked to describe ACPL
The Facilities Master Plan is all about growing with Allen County – creating welcoming and useful spaces for everyone. Some key points of the plan include:
Making library materials easier to find.
Providing more areas for groups to work together.
Creating inspiring spaces for kids to learn.
Expanding technology.
Improving STEAM spaces.
Beautifying outdoor areas for programs and events.
Building inclusive spaces for people of all ages and abilities.
Looking Ahead
The plan didn’t happen overnight. The ACPL has been meeting with the community, holding focus groups, conducting surveys, and studying the growing community since as far back as 2021. This engagement was critical to crafting a solid plan the community can call its own.
Perhaps that’s why when polling company American Pulse conducted a phone survey earlier this year they found a whopping 86.9% of taxpayers said they would support a tax increase if it meant an investment in the library they love.
If you agree, take a minute to support the plan today at acpl.info/petition. The library is growing with the community, and your voice is a critical part of the journey!
*Source: USA Facts
“With the community’s support, we are protecting what we have and preparing for the future.”
-Susan P. Baier, ACPL Executive Director
