America 250: Celebrating Our Shared Story
We're proud to join the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary with a series of programs, films, and exhibits designed to reflect on the nation’s history, culture, and democratic ideals.
The Library is serving on the Allen County America 250 Committee and in partnership with PBS Fort Wayne, the committee will present a day-long Allen County America 250 event on Saturday, May 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Main Library. Community members can view clips of Ken Burns’ “The American Revolution”, connect with local organizations and learn more about upcoming commemorations and initiatives tied to America 250. For this event, all ACPL parking lots will offer free downtown parking until 6 p.m.
Join us as we explore the people, places, and ideas that shaped our nation. Through engaging programs, exhibits, and resources, we’ll reflect on our history, examine our present, and imagine our future together.
Programs and Activities at the Library
Branch Activities
Main, Dupont, Grabill, Tecumseh, Woodburn
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Book Displays
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Reading Lists
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Scavenger Hunts
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Self-Directed Activities
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State Matching Games
Mini 3D Printed Time Capsules
May 10-16th during Open Studio Hours
Follow our instructions to program a miniature time capsule digital model into Prusa Slicer software for 3D Printing. Pick up your completed 3D Print later and enjoy storing small keepsakes inside! Library card needed to checkout Studio Laptops for this activity.
Rolland Center for Lincoln Research
Scandal In the Capital - Whispers in Wartime
In a city where rumors could destroy reputations overnight, scandal revealed how the Civil War touched every corner of Washington society. A new temporary exhibit shines light on four scandals that sparked heated gossip in our nation’s capital, the nerve-center of the war effort.
This free exhibit is available now through August 11, 2026 at the Rolland Center for Lincoln Research at the Main Library.
Federal Depository Library Program
Explore government information—past and present—through the Allen County Public Library’s participation in the Federal Depository Library Program. From historic documents and wartime posters to census data, laws, and presidential speeches, you can access a vast collection both in person and online.
The Genealogy Center
Freedom's Debt: A Guide to Revolutionary War Pensions
Virtual Genealogy Program - May 5
Freedom's Debt: A Guide to Revolutionary War Pensions will explore how Revolutionary Ward pension records can assist participants with early American genealogy research.
The Five Forts That Make Up Fort Wayne
Virtual Genealogy Program - June 23
This program will examine the history of the five forts that were built near present-day Fort Wayne and the military history of the three rivers region.
Registration for this event is not yet open.
