As communities in northern Allen County began to explode in population in the late 1990s and early 2000s, it became clear that the Harlan branch of the Allen County Public Library was no longer sufficient to service the area—a larger, more centrally-located branch was needed! Situated between Harlan and Leo-Cedarville, the town of Grabill was the perfect choice for this new branch, and the Grabill branch of ACPL officially opened in 2005. As the county has continued to grow, so, too, has the Grabill branch, which now boasts a diverse collection of over 37,000 items. Popular collections include picture books, readalongs, board games, and Christian Fiction, as well as books on cooking, homesteading, and crafting.

The Grabill branch strives to bring engaging and important programs and resources to the community, often through partnerships with other local agencies. For more than 10 years, Grabill has partnered with Anthis Career Center in Fort Wayne to provide HSE classes to adults seeking their high school diploma; more than 150 people have received their HSE through this program as of 2023. Grabill also partners with Metea County Park to offer a special storytime each month that allow children to learn about and experience nature through stories, songs, artifacts, and hikes! Grabill staff also provides outreach to local agencies for children, seniors, and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Grabill branch offers modern library services with a small-town feel. Be sure to check out our StoryScape, a unique train station-themed early learning space inspired by the town’s rich railroad history. Children can climb aboard a play train, explore a crawl-through tunnel, and enjoy both seated and active play. If you enjoy small-town life, a community vibe, and horses (it is the only branch with a hitching post, after all!), come visit us in Grabill.