The Allen County Public Library has released its 2022 Community Impact Report. The report, which utilizes data from the Library’s annual report to the Indiana State Library, reflects how the library system’s services and collection contributed to the education, literacy, access, and discovery in Allen County over the past year.
In 2022, the ACPL saw a 7.8% increase in number of library visits for a total of nearly 1.5 million visits across the system’s 14 locations. Borrowing was up as well with a 12% increase over 2021 for a total of 4.1 million items borrowed. The Library also put concerted effort into addressing the digital divide through access to high-quality wi-fi in its branches. The resulting 1,035,476 wi-fi sessions equated to a 20% increase over 2021.
“Every day, we know we are having an impact, but when we take a moment to really dig into the numbers and compare that impact year over year, it gives us an opportunity to hold ourselves accountable,” said ACPL Executive Director Susan Baier. “Our work will never be done, but to see such growth in a year gives us something to celebrate and reminds us of the critical needs we fill in Allen County.”
Among the most impressive growth was in the area of library programming which was offered both on-site at library branches and off-site at community outreach events. In 2022, the ACPL served nearly 95,000 attendees in more than 5,000 programs. This is a 62% increase in participation and a 328% increase in offerings over 2021.
“We’re working hard to meet people where they are through our outreach and programs,” said Director of Programming and Partnerships Beth Boatright. “If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that librarians have a role to play beyond the walls of the library. We’re dedicated to sharing the magic of our books, materials, expertise, and connections across Allen County in the years to come!”
An additional item of note is the success of the ACPL’s new Rolland Center for Lincoln Research which opened in January 2022. The interactive space showcases the Library’s impressive collection of Abraham Lincoln artifacts and welcomed more than 20,000 visitors in its first year.
The annual Community Impact Report comes just in time for the 2023 National Library Week which kicks off April 23. The week is dedicated to celebrating libraries, librarians, and library workers.