ACPL Celebrates 75 Years of Komets Hockey with Exhibit, Storytime, and More
The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) is celebrating the Fort Wayne Komets’ 75th anniversary with an exhibit of team memorabilia and a series of special events for all ages.
“The Komets are woven into the story of Allen County. For 75 years, they have brought generations of families together, and that history deserves to be recognized and preserved,” said ACPL Executive Director Susan P. Baier. “We’re proud to celebrate this milestone as a community, and to support the Komets' archival work. We hope everyone will stop by the library to see the exhibit, participate in programs, and share their own Komets memories.”
According to the Komets, the team wanted to ensure that the 75th anniversary season would be a time to celebrate one of the oldest hockey franchises in North America.
"This team has always belonged to the fans, and seeing our history on display for families, readers, and neighbors means so much to all of us," said Shane Albahrani, Voice of the Fort Wayne Komets and Director of Media Relations & Broadcasting. “On behalf of the entire Komets organization, we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has been a part of the Komets family over the last 75 years and to the library and its staff for helping us celebrate this milestone.”
The community is invited to celebrate the Komets and the Library with the following activities:
Komets Memorabilia Exhibit
November 18 through April 30, Main Library (900 Library Plaza)
Exhibit will display vintage memorabilia and game-worn apparel from Komets history. The exhibit is free and open during regular Main Library hours.
Storytime with the Fort Wayne Komets
Wednesday, December 9, 2–2:30 p.m., Main Library
Families can join Komets mascot Icy D. Eagle for a hockey-themed storytime. Attendees will have the chance to meet Icy and take photos afterward.
Great Day Cafe: Ice Hockey
Wednesday, January 13, 1:30–2:45 p.m., Main Library
This program is for adults with memory impairments and their caregivers. It offers activities that enrich the mind, body, and spirit, all with a hockey theme. It is presented in partnership with Aging & In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana.
Authors & Ales with the Fort Wayne Komets
Tuesday, February 9, 6:30–7:30 p.m., 2Toms Brewing Company (3676 N. Wells St.)
Guests can enjoy an evening of hockey romance books and pose for photos with special guests from the Komets.
Archival Efforts at the Genealogy Center
The Library’s Genealogy Center worked with Komets staff to develop a 75th anniversary book. Genealogy Center staff helped uncover the photographs, memories, and history behind the team. The ACPL produced a video documenting the process available at acpl.info/komets.
All activities are free and open to the public. Details, registration links, and more details are available at acpl.info/komets.
