One of Fort Wayne’s great spots is the perfect place for locals and visitors to hang out. I’m talking about the Allen County Public Library. The 14 locations throughout Allen County, including the main branch in downtown Fort Wayne, offer a plethora of regularly scheduled activities. There are many things to brag about with this library system, but I’ll limit my praises to 6 reasons.

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Researching at the Genealogy Center1. Genealogy Center

Allen County Public Library has one of the largest collections of family history in the US. Plus, the best part about the Genealogy Center are the trained genealogists that are on hand to help you discover your family history!

Women navigating a digital kiosk about Abraham Lincoln
2. Rolland Center for Lincoln Research 

Another gem at the Main Branch downtown, is the Rolland Center for Lincoln Research. This treasure trove of Lincoln's life and times includes artifacts such as newspapers, books, photos, election tickets, and letters and diaries by soldiers from the Civil War. It also features interactive displays and a 360 video presentation. The hours are the same as the library's branch hours and the public is welcome to stop by and take a look.

If you want a more in-depth tour, you can book a free tour with a Lincoln expert on ACPL's website.

3. Special Events at the Library

Catch puppet shows, story time, gaming meet ups, educational opportunities and even community events like Rock the Plaza - an outdoor music, summer tradition. All ages are welcome to bring a lawn chair or blankets (but no pets please). Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted. Check the library's Calendar of Events to see upcoming dates.

Art on display at the Allen County Public Library Krull Gallery from local artist Theoplis Smith III aka Phresh Laundry
4. Love art?

The Jeffrey R. Krull Gallery in the main branch offers various mediums from local and worldwide artists. It’s free to browse. Recently, I relished in viewing hand-stitched items, some historic, from around the world!

5. Maker Labs

Several ACPL branches offer the unique opportunity to create and be imaginative with Maker labs. Learn a skill in time for gift giving for the holidays! Workshops and lab technicians are also available to assist you. Find mediums from 3D printing to smart cutting machines, heat transfer to embroidery, and more.

The following branches offer Maker Labs: Main, Georgetown, Hessen Cassel, Pontiac, and Shawnee

Two women walk past the reading tower in the children's section at the library. The reading tower has individual reading nooks that look like bubbles.

6. Children's Section- Downtown

Talking about the children’s section, it’s a wonderful place for visitors to enjoy! With towers to climb with individual reading nooks, shelves up shelves of children's books, and a quiet room to color, this is a great place for your little ones to explore.

Main Branch Downtown
900 Library Plaza
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
260.421.1200