05/13/2026
NMPL Announces New Reciprocal Partnership With the Akron Carnegie Public Library
The North Manchester Public Library (NMPL) is delighted to announce a new Local Reciprocal Borrowing Covenant with the Akron Carnegie Public Library, effective May 11th. Located in the heart of Akron, the Akron Carnegie Public Library serves its community with a welcoming space, a rich collection, and a wide range of programs for all ages.
With this new partnership, NMPL cardholders - both resident and non‑resident - can now sign up for a free library card at Akron, and Akron patrons can do the same at NMPL. This agreement joins NMPL’s existing reciprocal partnerships with Roann Paw Paw Township Public Library, South Whitley Community Public Library, North Webster Community Public Library - North Webster, Indiana, Wabash Carnegie Public Library, and the Huntington City-Township Public Library, bringing the total to seven libraries that NMPL patrons can access.
Expanding reciprocal access is a key part of NMPL’s long‑range plan to strengthen regional collaboration and increase the value of library services for the community. Library Director Andrea Zwiebel notes that these partnerships “reflect our commitment to building connections that make library resources more accessible for everyone. Each new covenant supports our long‑range plan by expanding opportunities for learning, exploration, and community engagement across our region.”
This initiative also provides significant added value for non‑resident patrons. While resident patrons receive their NMPL card through the taxes they already pay, non‑resident patrons make a personal choice to purchase a card each year. The annual non‑resident fee is set by the Indiana State Library and approved by the NMPL Board, and NMPL has worked intentionally to ensure that investment goes further. With this new covenant, non‑resident patrons now receive access to seven libraries for the price of one, dramatically expanding the materials, programs, and services available to them.
Patrons interested in becoming reciprocal users simply need to bring their home library card and a valid ID or proof of address to the partner library. As with NMPL’s other reciprocal agreements, a few restrictions apply: reciprocal patrons cannot borrow Inter‑Library Loan materials or check out hotspots.
Adult Department Manager Jeanna Hann shared that this expansion is part of NMPL’s ongoing effort to meet the evolving needs of the community. “We’re continually looking for ways to bridge service gaps and make sure every library user has access to the resources that matter to them. Adding Akron to our reciprocal network gives our patrons even more places to read, learn, and feel supported.”
For more information about NMPL or the Akron Carnegie Public Library, visit www.northmanchesterpubliclibrary.org or https://www.akron.lib.in.us/
Pictured: Janet Hawley (ACPL Director), Andrea Zwiebel (NMPL Director) and the ACPL Library
