Public libraries are far more than book repositories. They are vital, dynamic community hubs and an essential part of the social infrastructure that offer crucial, free access to education, information, technology and community support services.
Beyond physical books, modern libraries offer extensive digital collections including e-books, audiobooks, music and movies. And the Allen County Public Library is putting a bow on 2025 by celebrating the stories, characters and entertainment from this year’s most checked-out items.
“Whether it’s audiobooks on the go, e-books, DVDs, CDs, board games, puzzles or video games, the library continues to be a place where everyone can find something they love,” Collection Services Manager Matt Etzel said in an emailed statement.
ACPL collectively saved Allen County readers more than $50 million by using the library vs. buying the items themselves, according to Aja Michael-Keller, the library’s director of communications.
Audiobooks and e-books grew in popularity at ACPL, led by Rebecca Yarros’ fantasy “Onyx Storm” and Abby Jimenez’s “Say You’ll Remember Me,” respectively. Allen County residents saved $1,212 by checking out “Onyx Storm” instead of purchasing it, Michael-Keller said in an email to The Journal Gazette. Another $968 was saved by borrowing “Say You’ll Remember Me.”
Allen County readers’ favorite print books were Frieda McFadden’s “Housemaid” thriller series and Kristin Hannah’s “The Women.”
For young readers, Dav Pilkey’s “Dog Man” dominated children’s literature, while the latest installment of Suzanne Collins’ “Hunger Games” series secured the entire saga among the top spots for teens.
Hollywood titles such as “Gladiator II,” “Sinners” and “Star Wars” topped DVD and video game checkouts, rounding out a year of stories influenced by pop culture mainstays, thrillers and mysteries, and romance.
“These lists show just how much our community values stories in multiple formats and how passionate Allen County is about using all its library has to offer,” Etzel said.
All of this matters because, even as libraries are saving residents millions of dollars, expanding digital access and serving as trusted civic spaces, there are ongoing efforts by the Indiana General Assembly to weaken their independence. The move to inject partisanship into what has long been a professionally governed public service undermines a civic institution built on access and public trust.
All of these titles — and millions more — are available with a free Allen County Public Library card. To explore the collection or sign up for a card, visit acpl.info online. It’s a great way to stretch your entertainment dollars in 2026.