Hessen Cassel Library Neighbors Invited to Help Shape the Branch’s Next Chapter

What should the Hessen Cassel Branch look like in the years ahead? The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) wants to hear from the people who know it best. On Monday, October 26, the library will host two drop-in Listening Sessions as part of its ongoing Facilities Master Plan, giving residents a chance to see early ideas for the branch and weigh in on what matters most to them.

The Facilities Master Plan is a long-term effort to ensure ACPL’s buildings keep pace with how people use their libraries. For Hessen Cassel, that means exploring improvements that make the branch easier to access, refresh its community spaces, and prepare it to serve the neighborhood for years to come.

“A library should reflect the community around it, and that starts with listening,” said Susan P. Baier, ACPL Executive Director. “We’re eager to hear what residents love about their branch, what they’d change, and what they hope to see. Their input will directly shape the final design.”

Stop by either session to talk with members of the project team, including representatives from Group 4 Architecture and Luminaut. Visitors can look over design concepts, ask questions, and share their thoughts in an informal setting. No registration is needed, and attendees are welcome to come and go as their schedules allow.

Monday, October 26 

12–2 p.m. at McMillen Park Community Center (3901 Abbott St., Fort Wayne) 

4–5:30 p.m. at the Hessen Cassel Branch (3030 E. Paulding Rd., Fort Wayne)

Can’t make it on the 26th? Engagement Boards will be on display at the Hessen Cassel Branch through November 16 and can be visited any time the library is open. Patrons can stop by on their own schedule to review the concepts and leave comments.

To learn more about the Facilities Master Plan, visit acpl.info/youracpl.