The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) and the Friends of the ACPL are thrilled to announce the launch of the brand-new ACPL Store. This exciting venture aims to provide a platform for patrons to showcase their ACPL pride while supporting the Library's programs, services, and staff development.
The ACPL Store offers a wide range of merchandise, including apparel, accessories, and home goods, all featuring the library's iconic logo and designs. There are also specialty sections for Genealogy patrons and Friends of the Library. Whether you're a dedicated bookworm, a family history researcher visiting Fort Wayne, or simply a proud supporter of the ACPL's mission, there's something for everyone.
"We are delighted to introduce the ACPL Store to our community," said ACPL Executive Director Susan P. Baier. "Not only does it allow our patrons the opportunity to express their love for the library, it also plays a crucial role in sustaining and enhancing the services we provide."
The launch of a public merchandise store was included in the Library’s 2024-28 strategic plan “Windows to Lifelong Learning and Opportunity” as part of connecting community through “collaborations that strengthen the community and extend our reach” and as a tool to “fundraise, increase brand awareness for ACPL support programs, and give patrons a way to show their ACPL pride.”
According to Baier, patrons often ask for ACPL merchandise to purchase and support the Library’s work. Over the past six months, the Library’s Marketing department worked closely with local vendor DKM Embroidery, Inc. to develop the designs, create the website, and launch the store.
A portion of each sale in the ACPL Store goes directly to the Friends of the Library who in turn support a variety of Library’s initiatives that benefit children, teens, and adults. From literacy partnerships like the Teen Agency Program to author visits to branch projects like the pollinator gardens at Tecumseh, these funds empower the Library to explore new horizons, develop its staff, and invest in activities that move the Library forward.
The ACPL store is now live at www.acpl.info/store. Samples of some items can be seen in the Great Hall at the Main Library.
About the Allen County Public Library
The Allen County Public Library (ACPL) has fostered lifelong learning and discovery in northeast Indiana for more than 125 years. The ACPL consists of fourteen branches throughout Allen County, serving more than one million visitors per year. The ACPL’s collection includes more than 2.7 million items, with a circulation total of 4.2 million items borrowed annually. It also houses The Genealogy Center, the nation’s largest public genealogy research center, and The Rolland Center for Lincoln Research, consisting of more than 30,000 artifacts related to President Abraham Lincoln.
About the Friends of the ACPLThe Friends of the Allen County Public Library, a non-profit, membership organization, has a common concern for the library's expansion and participation in community life. Since 1981, the Friends of the Allen County Public Library has made significant contributions to the steady growth of the library and its services to the community.