The Allen County Public Library will celebrate National Library Week (NLW) April 23–29). First held in 1958, National Library Week is sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and is a time to celebrate our nation’s libraries, library workers’ contributions and promote library use and support.
The theme for National Library Week 2023 is “There’s More to the Story,” which highlights the wide array of services and programs beyond books in your local library. The ACPL embraces this approach with diverse offering including collections and expertise that bridge the digital divide, support for entrepreneurs and job seekers, youth programming, and cultural/historical discovery.
“2022 was a year of change for the ACPL and we have so much to celebrate this National Library Week,” said Executive Director Susan Baier. “Over the last year, we went fine free, doubled our mobile hotspot collection, expanded our programming and partnerships, launched new DEI initiatives, opened our new Rolland Center for Lincoln Research, hosted nationally-recognized authors, and connected Allen County residents through hundreds of community events and activities.”
The ACPL invites the community to join in the celebration by stopping by local branches, participating in library programs, or checking out materials. The following activities are highlighted National Library Week opportunities as well.
Sunday, April 23 – Book Bowl: The Ultimate Book Trivia Contest
1 to 4 p.m., Main Library (900 Library Plaza) Meeting Room ABC
Allen County’s favorite book-related trivia competition is back and better than ever. Teams of up to 6 people can register online to answer a series of questions for a chance to win prizes and be named the 2023 Grand Champion.
Monday, April 24 – Right to Read Day, the State of America’s Libraries Report is released, including Top Ten Frequently Challenged Books of 2022.
Tuesday, April 25 – National Library Workers Day, a day for library staff, users, administrators, and Friends groups to recognize the valuable contributions made by all library workers.
Wednesday, April 26 – National Library Outreach Day, a day to celebrate library outreach and the dedicated library professionals who are meeting their patrons where they are. The ACPL’s Library at Home fills this critical need for Allen County.
Wednesday, April 26 – Pantsuit Politics: A Different Approach to the News
6 to 8 p.m. Main Library (900 Library Plaza) Theater
Learn about the transformative power of hard conversations with Pantsuit Politics podcast hosts and authors, Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers. They’ll discuss their book “Now What? How to Move Forward When We’re Divided (About Basically Everything).” After their presentation, they will be hosting a photo line and book signing. They will not have books for sale but are happy to sign a copy you already own or a bookplate to place in your book. Registration is now closed for Theater access; however, walk-ins are welcome and will be seated in our overflow room for the live-stream of this event. This event has been generously sponsored by the Friends of the Allen County Public Library.
Thursday, April 27 – Take Action for Libraries Day, a day to rally advocates to support libraries. Local supporters can take action for the ACPL by joining the Friends of the Allen County Public Library, a membership organization dedicated to supporting library initiatives. More information available at supportacpl.org.
All events are free and open to the public. For more information about activities at the library, visit acpl.libnet.info/events, call (260) 421-1200, or visit a local ACPL branch.