Inaugural United Express flight between Abilene and Houston takes off from Abilene Regional Airport

Abilene Regional Airport is happy to celebrate the return of direct flights between Abilene and Houston through United Express, operated by SkyWest Airlines. The first flight from Abilene Regional Airport (ABI) to Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airp...

New on-street parking limits for downtown Abilene take effect October 21st

Drivers utilizing on-street parking in downtown Abilene will be required to comply with existing, posted parking limits and parking meters through Tuesday, October 20, 2020 to avoid parking fines or towing.

Abilene City Council voted at its October 8, 2020...

Latest COVID-19 testing numbers as of October 27, 2020

COVID-19 testing numbers from the Abilene Taylor County Public Health District for October 27, 2020 include 62 positives (PCR and antigen), 35 recoveries, and 30 current hospitalizations.

Read on...

Marcus Dudley, Jr. named City of Abilene's next Chief of Police

The City of Abilene and its Police Chief Search Committee is pleased to announce Marcus Dudley, Jr. will serve as Abilene’s next Chief of Police.

“Mr. Dudley exhibits the servant leadership, commitment to fairness, and professional expertise that is necess...

CityLink routes 7 & 28 moving to John Knox Drive

To provide much safer access to the Target, VA clinic, and Goodwill area, CityLink will change routes 7 and 28 to travel on John Knox Drive instead of Ridgemont Drive. The change to routes 7 and 28 will be effective October 12, 2020.    ...

Public Works' annual crack sealing program underway

The City of Abilene’s Public Works Department has begun its annual crack sealing program, the single most important step taken to prolong the life of asphalt roadways across the city. Crews will be working to seal cracks in several sections of ro...

South Willis Construction Begins

Construction will begin on South Willis on September 22 between Edgemont and South 27th Street.

• Please use caution while traveling in the area
• Please use detour routes to avoid active construction

The Public Works department appreciates your patience. Should...

Need to talk to someone?

The Crisis Counseling Program at the Betty Hardwick Center, through funding from a FEMA grant, is now offering resources from Texans Recovering Together to help folks deal with the mental health challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Those reso...

Traffic interruptions begin August 1st along Buffalo Gap Road

Work is scheduled to begin for the relocation of water utility lines on FM 89/Buffalo Gap Road beginning August 1, 2020. The utility line relocation is in preparation for a TxDOT project which will widen the road from South Clack to Chimney Rock Road.

Area...

South 14th Street water line replacement project begins

Work has begun to replace the water line along South 14th street in Abilene, improving water service to businesses and residents in the area. 

The project is designed to replace the aging cast iron pipe with approximately 5,000 feet of new 8&r...

City response to Governor Abbott's June 26th Executive Order

The City of Abilene encourages all business owners and citizens to follow Governor Greg Abbott’s Executive Order issued earlier today, limiting certain businesses and services in an effort to control the spread of COVID-19. The City of Abilene n...

Abilene Street Projects

Learn about Abilene's current Street Projects, from the Bond Program passed in 2015 to the Street Maintenance Fee on Your Abilene Investment: Streets.

Solid Waste Services (Trash Collection) Suspended for Tuesday, October 27, 2020

ABILENE, Texas – The City of Abilene Solid Waste Services (Trash Collection) will not be operating today, Tuesday, October 27, 2020, due to icy roadway conditions and being able to ensure safe access into and out of the landfill. Normal collectio...

Chief Stan Standridge Appointed Chief of Police of San Marcos, Texas

Abilene Police Dept. Chief Stan Standridge has been appointed Chief of Police for the San Marcos Police Department in San Marcos, Texas.

His last day serving APD will be November 13, 2020, and Assistant Chief Mike Perry will serve as Interim Chief until Ch...

Inaugural United Express flight between Abilene and Houston takes off from Abilene Regional Airport

Abilene Regional Airport is happy to celebrate the return of direct flights between Abilene and Houston through United Express, operated by SkyWest Airlines. The first flight from Abilene Regional Airport (ABI) to Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airp...

Abilene Public Form on Downtown Street & Parking Restriping Program

Abilene residents are invited to attend a Public Forum Monday, October 26th, at the Abilene Convention Center, 2nd floor Conference Room (1100 N. 6th St.) from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. to discuss the future downtown street and parking restriping program.

The...

Marcus Dudley, Jr. named City of Abilene's next Chief of Police

The City of Abilene and its Police Chief Search Committee is pleased to announce Marcus Dudley, Jr. will serve as Abilene’s next Chief of Police.

“Mr. Dudley exhibits the servant leadership, commitment to fairness, and professional expertise that is necess...

Current downtown parking limits in effect through October 20, 2020

Drivers utilizing on-street parking in downtown Abilene will be required to comply with existing, posted parking limits and parking meters through Tuesday, October 20, 2020 to avoid parking fines or towing.

Abilene City Council voted at its October 8, 2020...

CityLink routes 7 & 28 moving to John Knox Drive

To provide much safer access to the Target, VA clinic, and Goodwill area, CityLink will change routes 7 and 28 to travel on John Knox Drive instead of Ridgemont Drive. The change to routes 7 and 28 will be effective October 12, 2020.    ...

Public Works' annual crack sealing program underway

The City of Abilene’s Public Works Department has begun its annual crack sealing program, the single most important step taken to prolong the life of asphalt roadways across the city. Crews will be working to seal cracks in several sections of ro...

Ridgemont at Rolling Green traffic signal fully operational Wednesday, September 30th

The new four-way traffic signal located at the intersection of Ridgemont Drive, Rolling Green Drive, and the west entrance of the Mall of Abilene will be fully operational on Wednesday, September 30th. Drivers will need to be prepared to stop at the inter...

Finalists named in Abilene Chief of Police search

Abilene City Manager Robert Hanna is pleased to announce the City’s Police Chief Search Committee has named three finalists for the position of Abilene Chief of Police.

The three finalists, in alphabetical order by last name, are as follows:

Rober...

Bat found in downtown area tests positive for rabies

The City of Abilene would like to advise residents and those who frequent the downtown area that a bat found on September 2, 2020 in the 1100 block of North 2nd Street between Cedar and Cypress Streets has tested positive for rabies. Abilene Animal Servic...

Health District receives notification of COVID-19 cases at local nursing facility

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District has received notification of eighteen positive COVID-19 test results from residents of the Northern Oaks Living & Rehabilitation Center at 2722 Old Anson Road, and notification of one COVID-19 related d...

Traffic interruptions begin August 1st along Buffalo Gap Road

Work is scheduled to begin for the relocation of water utility lines on FM 89/Buffalo Gap Road beginning August 1, 2020. The utility line relocation is in preparation for a TxDOT project which will widen the road from South Clack to Chimney Rock Road.

Area...

South 14th Street water line replacement project begins

Work has begun to replace the water line along South 14th street in Abilene, improving water service to businesses and residents in the area. 

The project is designed to replace the aging cast iron pipe with approximately 5,000 feet of new 8&r...

City response to Governor Abbott's June 26th Executive Order

The City of Abilene encourages all business owners and citizens to follow Governor Greg Abbott’s Executive Order issued earlier today, limiting certain businesses and services in an effort to control the spread of COVID-19. The City of Abilene n...

Welcome, Library Director Julee Hatton!

The City of Abilene is excited to announce the hire of Julee Hatton, Abilene’s first Library Director. Ms. Hatton joins the City’s executive management team from Lincoln, Nebraska, where she most recently served as Assistant Director o...

Abilene Animal Shelter coordinates flight to save more than 60 dogs and cats

The City of Abilene’s Animal Services has teamed up with the non-profit organization Dog Is My Copilot to relocate more than 60 animals to shelters experiencing a shortage of adoptable pets.

Abilene Animal Services staff and volunteers were at th...

New street sweepers help save Abilene streets and improve stormwater drainage

Four first-of-their-kind street sweepers are now at work on Abilene streets, eliminating curb and gutter debris in an innovative way that will not only clear stormwater drainage pathways, but also increase the longevity of city roadways.

The Dulevo 6000 Ti...

Best Friends and City of Abilene partner to improve shelter outcomes during director search

The City of Abilene is pleased to announce that Best Friends Animal Society will be committing a qualified staff member to serve as interim director of Abilene Animal Services for the next 12 months. Under the terms of the partnership, the interim directo...

Long-term water source secured for Abilene, Midland, and San Angelo

What began a decade ago as a collaborative effort by the cities of Abilene, Midland and San Angelo to address long-term water needs culminated today with the signing of a multi-generational groundwater supply contract.

The cities negotiated a 50-year agree...

Required change in test reporting brings total cases of COVID-19 in Taylor County to 206

The Texas Department of State Health Services has notified the Abilene Taylor County Public Health District of two changes needing to made in its reporting of COVID-19 positive test results in Taylor County, which will bring the known number of total COVI...

Thirty-six Abilene Fire Department self-isolate with COVID-19

 The Abilene Fire Department reports thirty-six of its members have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus during the past seventy-two hours. An additional seven members of the department are in self-quarantine awaiting test results.  In...

MERCY Clinic and Abilene Taylor County Public Health District closed to public

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District at 850 North 6th Street, and MERCY Health Care Center at 1902 Shelton Street are now closed to the public until further notice.  

Residents are still able to access resources and COVID-19 testing pr...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports 3rd COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the third COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at 6:53 a.m.

The deceased patient was a male in his 60s, with underlying health conditions, who was being cared for at ...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports second COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the second COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Wednesday, April 15, 2020.

The deceased patient was a male in his 70s, with underlying health conditions, who was being cared for at Hendrick Me...

Possible exposure to COVID-19 positive individuals at Southwest Drive Walmart

CORRECTION/UPDATE: This news release pertains to the Southwest Drive Walmart on Abilene’s south side, not the Highway 351 Walmart previously reported.

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District would like to notify the public of possible ex...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports first COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the first COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Saturday, April 4, 2020.

The deceased patient was a female in her 40s, and a resident of Disability Resources, Inc. (DRI) with underlying medical...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District receives four positive COVID-19 test results

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received four additional positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the total positive test count for Taylor County and Dyess Air Force Base to seven. 

The four new positive test results are a...

A message from Mayor Anthony Williams

Over the last few weeks, the City Council and I have worked to take measured, responsible steps to minimize the spread of COVID-19 in our community; we first restricted gatherings to 250 individuals, and as new data was collected, to 50. When Governor Gre...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District receives second positive COVID-19 test result

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received its second confirmed positive test result for COVID-19 in Taylor County. This brings the total positive test count for Taylor County to three, including a positive result reported by Dyess Air ...

Details around first confirmed positive case of COVID-19 in Taylor County

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the first individual to test positive for COVID-19 in Taylor County has revealed the following information:

• The infected individual is a resident of Disability Resources, Inc., and was not recently engage...

Residents urged to practice social distancing and sanitize at City parks

The City of Abilene’s Department of Community Services would like to encourage all Abilene area residents using City parks and playgrounds to practice social distancing, and properly sanitize before and immediately after visiting a park, touchin...

Abilene Taylor-County Health District receives first confirmed positive test result for COVID-19

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received its first confirmed positive test result for COVID-19 in Taylor County.

The infected individual was tested Wednesday, March 25, and received notification of their positive test result Thursday, ...

Street Work Begins on downtown Central Business District street improvement project

Work begins Friday, March 6th on the City of Abilene’s Central Business District street improvement project in downtown Abilene.

The first portion of roadway to undergo construction is Cedar Street from North 1st to North 2nd. Over the next year,...

City Attorney Comment Regarding Carter v. City of Abilene Verdict

Abilene City Attorney Stanley Smith has issued the following statement regarding today’s verdict in the Carter v. City of Abilene lawsuit:

“The City of Abilene respects today’s verdict by the jury in the Chad Carter v. City of...

Mayor Anthony Williams Receives Council of Governments Regional Services Award

The West Central Texas Council of Governments and City of Abilene is proud to announce Abilene Mayor Anthony Williams as the latest recipient of the West Central Texas Council of Governments Regional Services Award.

Mayor Williams is the fourth person to r...

Website Personalization Now Available!

By clicking “Log In” on the MyAccount bar at the top of the screen, users may create a login for the site or use their Facebook profile to access MyAccount. Once logged in, visitors can choose the modules, features and keywords that they’d like to see mos...

Convention Center Floorplan

Planning an event? View the floorplan of the Convention Center and find the perfect space for your event!

Attending an Event

Are you attending an event? Find out about parking, location, and our box office to help your visit go smoothly.

Latest COVID-19 testing numbers as of October 27, 2020

COVID-19 testing numbers from the Abilene Taylor County Public Health District for October 27, 2020 include 62 positives (PCR and antigen), 35 recoveries, and 30 current hospitalizations.

Read on...

Need to talk to someone?

The Crisis Counseling Program at the Betty Hardwick Center, through funding from a FEMA grant, is now offering resources from Texans Recovering Together to help folks deal with the mental health challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Those reso...

Health District receives notification of COVID-19 cases at local nursing facility

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District has received notification of eighteen positive COVID-19 test results from residents of the Northern Oaks Living & Rehabilitation Center at 2722 Old Anson Road, and notification of one COVID-19 related d...

City response to Governor Abbott's June 26th Executive Order

The City of Abilene encourages all business owners and citizens to follow Governor Greg Abbott’s Executive Order issued earlier today, limiting certain businesses and services in an effort to control the spread of COVID-19. The City of Abilene n...

Required change in test reporting brings total cases of COVID-19 in Taylor County to 206

The Texas Department of State Health Services has notified the Abilene Taylor County Public Health District of two changes needing to made in its reporting of COVID-19 positive test results in Taylor County, which will bring the known number of total COVI...

Thirty-six Abilene Fire Department self-isolate with COVID-19

 The Abilene Fire Department reports thirty-six of its members have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus during the past seventy-two hours. An additional seven members of the department are in self-quarantine awaiting test results.  In...

MERCY Clinic and Abilene Taylor County Public Health District closed to public

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District at 850 North 6th Street, and MERCY Health Care Center at 1902 Shelton Street are now closed to the public until further notice.  

Residents are still able to access resources and COVID-19 testing pr...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports 3rd COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the third COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at 6:53 a.m.

The deceased patient was a male in his 60s, with underlying health conditions, who was being cared for at ...

News conference set to discuss COVID-19 testing at AbiMar Foods

A news conference will be held Monday, April 20, 2020 at 11:15 a.m. to discuss COVID-19 testing at AbiMar Foods, and the company’s proactive response in minimizing the spread of the virus within their workforce and our community.

AbiMar Foods vol...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports second COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the second COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Wednesday, April 15, 2020.

The deceased patient was a male in his 70s, with underlying health conditions, who was being cared for at Hendrick Me...

Possible exposure to COVID-19 positive individuals at Southwest Drive Walmart

CORRECTION/UPDATE: This report pertains to the Southwest Drive Walmart on Abilene’s south side, not the Highway 351 Walmart previously reported.

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District would like to notify the public of possible exposure...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports first COVID-19 related death for Taylor County

The Abilene Taylor County Public Health District reports the first COVID-19 related death for Taylor County on Saturday, April 4, 2020.

The deceased patient was a female in her 40s, and a resident of Disability Resources, Inc. (DRI) with underlying medical...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District receives four positive COVID-19 test results

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received four additional positive test results for COVID-19, bringing the total positive test count for Taylor County and Dyess Air Force Base to seven. 

The four new positive test results are a...

A message from Mayor Anthony Williams

Over the last few weeks, the City Council and I have worked to take measured, responsible steps to minimize the spread of COVID-19 in our community; we first restricted gatherings to 250 individuals, and as new data was collected, to 50. When Governor Gre...

Abilene Taylor County Public Health District receives second positive COVID-19 test result

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received its second confirmed positive test result for COVID-19 in Taylor County. This brings the total positive test count for Taylor County to three, including a positive result reported by Dyess Air ...

Details around first confirmed positive case of COVID-19 in Taylor County

An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the first individual to test positive for COVID-19 in Taylor County has revealed the following information:

• The infected individual is a resident of Disability Resources, Inc., and was not recently engage...

Abilene Taylor-County Health District receives first confirmed positive test result for COVID-19

The Abilene Taylor-County Public Health District has received its first confirmed positive test result for COVID-19 in Taylor County.

The infected individual was tested Wednesday, March 25, and received notification of their positive test result Thursday, ...

Residents urged to practice social distancing and sanitize at City parks

The City of Abilene’s Department of Community Services would like to encourage all Abilene area residents using City parks and playgrounds to practice social distancing, and properly sanitize before and immediately after visiting a park, touchin...

Don't Die of Doubt: Dial 911

When the first signs of a heart attack or a stroke hit, calling 911 right away does more than just get you a ride to the ER. It immediately sets into motion a chain reaction of trained professionals, the latest technology, and specialized personnel, worki...

ISO Class 1

The Abilene Fire Department has received the ISO Class 1 classification. ISO, or Insurance Services Office, collects data from fire districts and communities throughout the country and scores departments based on certain categories and programs. The ISO r...

AFD Employment

Apply for a job at the Abilene Fire Department

About the AFD

The Abilene Fire Department is a full service department that responds to calls involving fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials, and rescue situations within the city limits of Abilene. The AFD responds to over 15,000 calls annually and provides...

AFD on Social Media

Stay up to date with the Abilene Fire Department: follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Structure Fire: 1000 Block of China Street

On October 24, 2020 at approximately 11:40 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a commercial structure fire located in the 1000 block of China St.  Upon arrival, fire crews found smoke coming from an air vent located on the roof as well ...

Structure Fire: 1500 Block of Park Ave

On October 22nd, 2020 at approximately 7:03 p.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a first alarm residential structure fire located in the 1500 block of Park Avenue. Crews arrived to find a single family home with light smoke showing. A fast attac...

Structure Fire: 1300 Block of Yeomans Rd

On October 12th, 2020 at approximately 3:00 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire at the 1300 block of Yeomans Road. Crews arrived to find a duplex building with nothing showing. Crews quickly found the fire, which wa...

Vehicle Fire: Dub Wright Blvd & Hampton Hills St

At approximately 1745 hours on September 16, 2020, the Abilene Fire Department was dispatched to a car fire near the intersection of Dub Wright Blvd. and Hampton Hills Street. Upon arrival an attack was made on the car fire and patient c...

Structure Fire: 1200 Block of Yeomans Rd

On September 25, 2020 at approximately 12:18 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire located in the 1200 block of Yeomans Rd. Fire crews arrived on scene to find a small fire located in the kitchen of the apartment buil...

Structure Fire: 2000 Block of Ambler Ave

On Thursday, September 24, 2020 at approximately 3:00 pm crews with the Abilene Fire Department responded to residential structure fire located in the 2000 block of Ambler Ave. On arrival, crews noted a single story residential structure with smoke and fi...

State Farm Memorial Blood Drive

State Farm Agent Kim Austin will be hosting a memorial blood drive this year for Abilene Good Neighbor Day, honoring fallen firefighter Mike Degering. The blood drive will be on Monday September 28th, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at Kim Austin’...

Structure Fire: 1200 block of South San Jose

On September 16, 2020 at approximately 6:40 a.m. the Abilene Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance call located at the 1200 block of South San Jose to find smoke coming from the windows. PD notified the Abilene Fire Department of a residen...

Structure Fire: 4200 Block of East Industrial

At approximately 09:40 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department was contacted by the City Marshal’s Office in regards to a large trash fire that was located in the 4200 block of East Industrial.  The call originated from the Abilene Regional Ai...

Structure Fire: 1700 Block of Sherman Drive

On September 11th, 2020 at approximately 3:36 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire in the 1700 block of Sherman Drive. The first responding unit arrived to find a single family dwelling with light smoke showing. Fire...

Structure Fire: 4200 Block of South 7th

On September 10th, 2020 at approximately 12:49 p.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire in the 4200 block of South 7th Street. Crews arrived to find a house with light smoke showing. A fast attack was initiated and the f...

Structure Fire: 1700 Block of Jeanette Street

At approximately 9:28 a.m. on September 5th 2020, the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire in the 1700 block of Jeanette Street. Crews arrived on scene to find smoke showing from the residence. During the initial investigation...

Structure Fire: Surrey Square

On September 20th, 2020 at approximately 1:40 p.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire at Surrey Square. Crews arrived to find a house with smoke showing. A second alarm was called shortly after initial crews were dispat...

Structure Fire: 200 Block of Trailway Drive

On Monday, August 31, 2020 at approximately 06:51 am, the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire in the 200 block of Trailway Dr. Abilene Fire Department crews arrived to find a single family dwelling with smoke and fire showing...

Structure Fire: 800 Block of Butternut Street

On August 29th, 2020 at approximately 5:57 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a non-residential structure fire at the 800 block of Butternut Street. Crews arrived to find an abandoned commercial building with light smoke showing. Fire crews ma...

Structure Fire: 3000 Block of Simmons Ave

On August 25, 2020, at approximately 1:00 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 3000 block of Simmons Ave. Fire crews arrived to find a single family residence with smoke showing from in the back of the structure. After in...

Structure Fire: 2000 Block of South Clack

At approximately 5:00 p.m. on August 20th, 2020, the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire at the 2000 block of South Clack Street. Crews arrived to find an apartment building with smoke showing. A second alarm was called short...

Structure Fire: 3100 block of South 7th Street

At approximately 8:38 p.m. on August 8th 2020, the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire in the 3100 block of South 7th street. Crews arrived on scene to find a residence fully involved with heavy fire and smoke showing. The fi...

Structure Fire: 5000 Block of Ryan Circle North

On August 4th, 2020, at approximately 12:00 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 5000 block of Ryan Circle North. Fire crews arrived to find a single family residence with smoke and fire showing. Crews were able to quickl...

Captain Jerry Medley Retires

Today is Captain Jerry Medley’s last day as an Abilene Firefighter. After 47 years of service, Captain Medley is the longest tenured professional firefighter in AFD history and has decided to retire. He has served our Department well and we wish...

July 4th Incidents

On July 04, 2020, at approximately 7:30 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 1400 block of Griggs Street. Fire crews arrived to find a single family residence with nothing showing. Crews investigated and found smoke in th...

Structure Fire: 1400 block of Longbotham Street

On June 29, 2020, at approximately 1:50 am, the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 1400 block of Longbotham Street. Fire crews arrived to find a fully involved shed structure in the back of the residence. Fire crews made an exter...

Structure Fire: 3500 Rolling Green Drive

On June 17, 2020 at approximately 11:40 p.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a 2-alarm structure fire located in the 3500 block of Rolling Green Drive. The first arriving units discovered a 2-story apartment complex with heavy fire on the exterio...

Structure Fire: 1400 block of Victoria Street

On June 12, 2020 at approximately 02:00 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire located in the 1400 block of Victoria Street. Fire crews arrived to find heavy fire on the back exterior of the single-family residence. Fire crews were...

Structure Fire: 3000 Block of Clinton

On June 8th, 2020, at approximately 11:30 p.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 3000 block of Clinton. Fire crews arrived to find a single story dwelling with nothing showing. Fire crews investigated the interior of the st...

Structure Fire: 1700 Block of Glenwood Drive

At approximately 0203 hours on May 20th 2020, the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire located in the 1700 block of Glenwood Drive. Crews arrived to find flames and smoke coming out of the attic space and made a quick attack e...

Structure Fire: 2400 Block of Buffalo Gap Road

On May 13, 2020 at approximately 1:50 p.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a two-alarm structure fire located  in the 2400 block of Buffalo Gap Road. Fire crews arrived to find smoke and flames coming from the 1st floor of the two-story...

Structure Fire: 300 Block of Pleasant Hill

On May 7th, 2020, at approximately 6:15 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 300 block of Pleasant Hill.  Fire crews arrived to find a RV fully involved, and quickly spreading to a manufactured home. A fire attack...

COVID-19 Update from the Abilene Fire Department

The Abilene Fire Department has experienced a direct impact due to the COVID-19 coronavirus.  To date, 49 firefighters have tested positive for the virus, and an additional 6 have self-quarantined due to direct exposures.  These numbers ...

Structure Fire: 5400 Block of Texas Avenue

At approximately 1740 on May 5th 2020, the Abilene Fire Department was dispatched to a structure fire at the 5400 block of Texas Ave. A second alarm was dispatched due to it being a multi family dwelling and a high life hazard. Arriving units found light ...

Cleaning Apparatus

We want to first apologize for the late notice but the Abilene Fire Department just confirmed with the professional cleaning service a start time for May 1st. We would like to invite the media to Station 6, 1482 South Danville, at 8:30 a.m. on May 1st, 20...

Structure Fire: 2300 Block of N Treadaway

At approximately 1340 on April 22nd, 2020 the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire at the 2300 block of North Treadaway. Crews arrived to find Smoke and flames showing and made a fast attack extinguishing the fire. The residen...

Structure Fire: 1600 Block of Chestnut

On April 22nd 2020, at approximately 4:30 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 1600 block of Chestnut. Fire crews arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from a single story residential structure. A 2nd Alarm was cal...

Structure Fire: 800 of Peach Street

On April 19, 2020 at approximately 4:30 p.m. the Abilene Fire Department was dispatched to a residential structure fire in the 800 block of Peach Street. Crews arrived to find smoke and flames showing at the rear of the residence and a  second al...

Structure Fire: 5200 Block of South 7th

On April 16th, 2020 at 11:50 p.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire in the 5200 block of South 7th Street.  Fire crews arrived to find smoke and fire showing and quickly extinguished the fire. Three residents ...

Structure Fire: 400 Block of Pine

On March 28, 2020 at approximately 9:20 pm the Abilene Fire Department responded to a high rise structure fire located in the 400 Block of Pine. The fire was out upon arrival. The occupants had a small cooking fire that initiated the sprinkler system resu...

Structure Fire: 2000 Block of South 19th

On March 28, 2020 at approximately 12:11 pm the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire located in the 2000 block of South 19th. Upon arrival, heavy smoke was found coming from the 1st floor of the two-story residential structure. A fire att...

Structure Fire: 2800 Block of Pine Street

On March 19th, 2020 at approximately 09:50 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 2800 block of Pine St. Fire crews arrived on scene to find heavy smoke and flames coming from a single-wide mobile home structure. The occupa...

Structure Fire: 3900 Block of Pine Street

On March 9, 2020, at approximately 10:40 pm, the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 3900 block of Pine Street. Fire crews arrived to find a wrecking yard with heavy smoke and flames showing. Fire crews made their attack from the ...

Structure Fire: 900 Block of Vine St.

On March 4th, 2020 at approximately 7:20 p.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 900 block of Vine St. Fire crews arrived on scene to find smoke venting from the structure. Upon forcing entry, fire crews found heavy fire in t...

Structure Fire: 4000 Block of Redbud Circle

On March 3^rd, 2020, at approximately 7:45p.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 4000 block of Redbud Circle. Fire crews arrived to find heavy smoke and flames showing from the front and rear of the multifamily duplex. Fire c...

Structure Fire: 5200 Block of Questa Drive

On February 6th, 2020, at approximately 7:30 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 5200 block of Questa Drive. Fire crews arrived to find a single story dwelling with light smoke showing from the side of the structure. Fire...

Structure Fire: 1300 Block of Sewell

On February 6th, 2020, at approximately 12:00 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 1300 block of Sewell. Fire crews arrived to find a single story dwelling with light smoke showing from the garage. Fire crews gained access...

Structure Fire: 300 Block of Westmoreland

On January 15, 2020, at approximately 9:30 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire on the 300 block of Westmoreland. Fire crews arrived to find light smoke and flames coming from the back of the residence on the exterior of the stru...

Structure Fire: 2400 Block of Buffalo Gap Road

On January 10, 2019 at approximately 9:41 p.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire at an apartment complex located in the 2400 block of Buffalo Gap Road. Fire crews arrived to find light smoke coming from a first floor apartment. A 2...

Structure Fire: 3900 Block of Chris Drive

At approximately 1229 hours on 01/08/2020 AFD Crews responded to a structure fire located at the 3900 block of Chris drive. First arriving units found two structures involved, one fully involved and the second partially involved with heavy smoke and fire ...

Structure Fire: 4800 Block of Mary Lou

On November 15, 2019, at approximately 10:15 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 4800 block of Mary Lou. Fire crews arrived to find a single story dwelling with light smoke showing. Fire crews gained access to the interio...

Structure Fire: 2800 Block of Sayles

On November 6^th 2019 at 0345 the Abilene Fire Department responded to a possible structure fire at the Maison Blanche Apartments at the 2800 block of Sayles. After crews arrived on scene the structure fire was quickly updated to a third alarm fire. The fi...

Dig Into the History of Dolls at Your Library

Archaeological evidence suggests dolls date back to the Egyptians and that they have been fashioned from a wide variety of materials from clay to wood. Modern dolls continue to be made from traditional materials as well as more contemporary mediums such a...

Find Out Whodunnit from Down Under at Your Library

Not everyone takes their work home with them, but librarians often do.  Every book we read, every movie we watch and every podcast/YouTube video we listen to give us ideas for creating our next program or informing our next reader’s advisory or i...

'Viva, Italia!' for a Day at the Abilene Public Library

If you happen to work for the federal government, then you have a day off from work today, in honor of Columbus Day. You might want to use part of this holiday to come by your Main or South Abilene Public Libraries to find some good books, movies or more ...

Oh the Horror! Find Frightful Fiction @ Your Library

Horror fans enjoy fearsome tales year round but there is perhaps no better time for a fictional fright than October. From ghosts to vampires, horror both old and new covers reading tastes of all kinds. If you are ready to try some horror, or a current hor...

Check Out These Series Set in Costwolds, Cornwall, and Leeds

It could be said that a librarian’s work is never done.  Every book we read, every movie we watch and every podcast or YouTube video we listen to are ideas flowing into our minds for creating our next program or informing our next reade...

Join the Library's Virtual Classroom

Virtual Classroom (www.abilenetx.gov/apl/class) is a new feature found on our digital webpage on the Abilene Public Library’s website.  It made its debut introducing our Axolotl, Sir Lancelotl.  The Virtual Cl...

Investigate the Library's Collection of Agatha Christie Mysteries

“Outsold only by the Bible and Shakespeare, Agatha Christie is the best-selling novelist of all time. She is best known for her 66 detective novels and 14 short story collections, as well as the world’s longest-running play - The Mouse...

Strike a Superhero Pose to Win Cash Prize!

September is National Library Card Sign-Up Month, encouraging everyone to visit their local library to register for a library card and take advantage of the great services they offer.  As a national campaign, library cardholders across the nation...

Celebrate National Library Card Sign-Up Month

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month, a time when your Abilene Public Library joins the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries nationwide to remind parents, caregivers, and students that signing up for a library card is the first step on the ...

Teens Vote for Top YA Reads!

It’s that time of year again, when the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA, a division of the American Library Association), seeks out the input of teens to vote on the best YA reads from the previous year.  Known as the Tee...

rbDigital eAudiobooks Moves to OverDrive

Downloadables and streaming content are popular services at your Abilene Public Library, and free to all library cardholders.  rbDigital was a great service we offered that provided you with a selection of eAudiobooks that couldn’t be f...

Explore Life in Postwar Britain in These TV Dramas

Last week’s article was about television dramas set during World War II in Great Britain.  This week, we travel in time as the English rebuild their society.  Two of the shows that reflect life in the aftermath of war are Bletc...

Escape to the Library to Find Fiction Set in the Blitz

With all the uncertainty brought by the proposed opening of schools and the continued COVID-19 situation, escaping for a while to another time and place can be way to deal with stress.  England during World War II and the subsequent years of rebu...

Julee Hatton, Abilene's New Library Director Has Books, Community in Her Soul

Julee Hatton, Abilene’s new library director, was a lifelong library user, checking out books in Valentine, Nebraska, from her local Carnegie Library.

But it wasn’t until she got a part-time job at the University of Nebraska library as ...

Meet Sir Lancelotl the Axolotl (Video)

If you may not already know, your Abilene Public Library has a new pet.  Allow us to introduce you to our new axolotl, currently available to see at your South Branch library, but will later be moved to the Mockingbird Branch Library once it reop...

Library Gets a New Pet...See What It Is!

If you have been by the South Branch Library lately you might have seen our new friend, the axolotl.  Currently our axolotl does not have a name but anyone may suggest their favorite names and the top picks will be voted on later this month.

You m...

Find TV Surprises from the Outback, New Zealand and More at Your Library

Librarians enjoy their work.  Every book we read, every movie we watch and every podcast/YouTube video we listen to are ideas flowing into our minds creating our next program or informing our next reader’s advisory or inspiring our next...

The March Continues, Legacy of John Lewis

When it comes to the names of the most influential people involved in the Civil Rights Movement, you’d be hard-pressed not to come across the name of John Lewis.  As one of the "Big Six" leaders, along with Martin Luther King ...

Europeans No Stranger to Detective Fiction

At your Abilene Public Library, we are always looking for great things our patrons might like.  Every book we read, every movie we watch and every podcast/YouTube video we listen to are ideas flowing into our minds for creating our next program o...

Farewell to "The Magic School Bus" Creator

The American writer of more than 250 books, however best known for The Magic School Bus series, Joanna Cole, has passed away on July 12, 2020 at the age of 75.  Her beloved series, illustrated by Bruce Degen since its creation, was what the autho...

Abilene Hunger Coalition to Provide Meals at Mockingbird

For the second year, the Mockingbird Branch Library will participate in the Free Summer Lunch program offered by the Abilene Hunger Coalition.  With the mission of providing food for Abilene during the AISD summer feeding gap, this year will be d...

See What Irish Eyes are Watching

As we travel the world via TV shows filmed in other English-speaking countries, the Emerald Isle, the land without snakes, seems so laid back and idyllic until you begin to watch Irish made programs. The pubs often have a no singing sign to keep the impro...

Choose Your Own Adventure at the Library

Choose Your Own Adventure Books are a unique series of books where the reader chooses what happens next in the story.  These books are great for reluctant readers because of how engaging the stories are and how they immerse the reader.  ...

Annual Mini-Con Pushed to 2021

Lib-Con has been an annual event at your Abilene Public Library for years, offering the community with a series of events and activities celebrating anime, manga, fandoms, comics, and more.  After much discussion, the Lib-Con committee is saddene...

TV Gold from Canada to the Caribbean

As I continue to travel during this COVID-19 pandemic by watching English language media not created in the U.S., I have found more gold!  High quality, entertaining TV programming is to be had in many places, and this article is about offerings ...

See Scotland & Wales on the Small Screen

While there are many drawbacks to this time of COVID-19, including the postponement of travel and travel planning, there is one advantage your library can help with. Thanks to our streaming resources, some of the best international offerings are available...

Library Welcomes New Director, Julee Hatton

The City of Abilene is excited to announce the hire of Julee Hatton, Abilene’s first Library Director. Ms. Hatton joins the City’s executive management team from Lincoln, Nebraska, where she most recently served as Assistant Director o...

Summer Reading Club Fun Kicks Off Today!

The Summer Reading Clubs kick off today, Monday, June 15 at your Main Library and South Branch Library locations.  As a reminder, the Mockingbird Branch Library will remain temporarily closed throughout the reading club months.  ...

Understand Another Perspective @ Your Library

If you are struggling with what to say or how to process current events, here is a list of books that may help shape your thoughts. Zeba Blay, who writes for Black Voices put this list together and published it on HuffPost a few years back. All are availa...

Virtual Club to Offer More Summer Fun at Your Library

COVID-19 has changed the way public libraries had to offer services.  Even now when our facilities are open, we’re still not back to our regular hours and services quite yet. There are still guidelines we must follow when facing how to ...

Weekly Storytimes Returning in July!

The Summer Reading Club is approaching, running June 15 - August 8 at your Main Library and South Branch locations.  At that time, feel free to stop by your library to start picking up your reading club packets, or start viewing summer activities...

See TV Favorites from Down Under @ Your Library

It could be said that a librarian’s work is never done. Every book we read, every movie we watch and every podcast/YouTube video we listen to are ideas flowing into our minds for creating our next program or informing our next reader’s...

Abilene Public Library Enters Phase 2 of Services

The Main Library and South Branch locations re-opened its doors on May 18 after our closing due to COVID-19.  At that time we opened to limited to services to adjust to a "new normal" to practice social distancing and clean high-use are...

The Bases Are Loaded at Your Library

During this COVID-19 spring time, many of us have truly missed sports - especially the game Americans love - baseball.  While Major League baseball may begin a shortened season soon, we lovers of the game can also read about the sport in print or...

Remember the Origins of Memorial Day

Today is Memorial Day, a day to honor the nation’s war dead.  Originally known as Decoration Day, because Civil War veterans’ graves were decorated by flowers, it originated in the south in 1865 and later spread to the north. ...

Welcome Back to Your Library!

Two locations of your Abilene Public Library are opening their doors today as we welcome our patrons back under a limited service plan. The Main Library will be open to the public Monday through Friday from 9:00AM to 6:00PM and 9:00AM to 1:00PM on Saturda...

2020 Friends of the Library Book Sale Postponed

The Board of the Friends of the Abilene Public Library have made the difficult decision to postpone their 2020 Annual Book Sale until June 2021.  The 31st annual sale, which would have been held on June 18-21, was determined to be too logisticall...

Library to Open May 18 with Limited Services, Reduced Hours

Monday, May 18, the Main Library and South Branch locations will open their doors to the public.  We appreciate everyone who has taken advantage of our digital services during our COVID-19 closure, but now you’ll have the opportunity to...

Record Numbers are Checking Out the Library Online

Abilene Public Library has great online resources, and the citizens of Abilene have apparently enjoyed having them during the month of April! Our digital circulation has far surpassed any other month in our history, with more than 23 thousand circulations...

Future Abilene Heritage Square Brightens Up as Crew Power Wash Exterior

As Published on the Abilene Reporter-News on Wednesday, May 6 by Brian Bethel

The future looks bright for the future site of Abilene Heritage Square, and now so does the exterior of the former Lincoln Middle School/Abilene High School.

The building&rsqu...

Learn Skills at Home with Your Library's Help

As we all stick closer to home these days and with so many ‘normal’ activities limited until further notice, many people are taking the time to brush up on old skills, or learn new things. Cooking is now a must-have skill, exercise rou...

Travel the World from Comfort of Home

This time of year is often when families begin to plan their summer vacations - what exciting destinations can be picked? What will appeal to everyone? Staycation, or go somewhere you’ve always wanted to go? Unfortunately, COVID-19 may squash th...

Let the Abilene Public Library Help with Homeschooling

With the uncertainty over whether schools will reopen before the end of the semester, parents and teachers are working hard to make sure their K-12 children have the resources they need to keep up to grade level. Your Abilene Public Library can help! We h...

Learning is at Your Fingertips with a Library Card

Last time we talked about some of our leisure reading online resources for all ages, but your Abilene Public Library has much, much more than that! Students of all ages have access to online courses that can earn Continuing Education Units, as well as tes...

Not Accepting Purchase Requests At this Time

Update May 16, 2020: The Abilene Public Library will no longer be accepting requests for purchasing materials for the remainder of our fiscal year, which ends September 30, 2020.  This includes requests for purchases of books, a...

Get Live Help with Library Lessons Online Series

The physical collection at your Abilene Public Library may be closed to the public, but that doesn’t mean you’re without access to great resources.  As long as you have a valid Abilene Public Library card, we encourage you to ...

Enjoy Live Online Storytimes During Library Closure

Social distancing is a common phrase we’re hearing often due to the fast spread of COVID-19.  Your Abilene Public Library will close its doors to the public, effective Monday, March 23, in the city’s attempt of lessening the p...

Abilene Public Library Closed to Limit Potential Spread for COVID-19

UPDATE 4-3-2020: Limited staff will operate out of the Main Library (202 Cedar St., PH: 325-677-2474) only effective Monday, April 6.  Staff will operate out of this location Mondays through Fridays from 8:00AM to 5:00PM.  If you are in ...

Pre-Construction Happening at Future Abilene Heritage Square

As Published in the Abilene Reporter-News on Sunday, March 15, 2020 by Brian Bethel

Contractors’ trucks have been surrounding the entrances of Abilene Heritage Square for a several days as pre-construction activities commence.

Housed in t...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

AARP Suspends Tax Aide Until Further Notice

Abilene Public Library has been informed by the AARP that the Tax Aide programs at our Main and Mockingbird libraries have been suspended indefinitely due to COVID-19.  The statement on their website www.aarp.org reads, in part: "As...

Digital Bookmobile Tour Abilene Stop Canceled

The Digital Bookmobile Tour event scheduled for the South Branch of the Abilene Public Library on Tuesday, March 17 has been canceled. Library staff were informed around 3:30 p.m. this afternoon with the following statement from OverDrive. 

&l...

(Video) Library Partners with Girl Scouts to Encourage Young Volunteers

The Abilene Public Library is looking to spark a volunteering spirit in young people. We learn about their partnership with The Girl Scouts to get young people involved.

Abilene Public LibraryMain Library- 202 Cedar St.South Branch Library- Mall of Abilene...

(Video) Create Your Look for Library's Cosplay Contest!

No matter how young or how old one may be, getting dressed up in fun costumes to become your favorite superhero or villain is just fun.  This is at the heart of the Cosplay Contest that’s hosted every year at Lib-Con at your Abilene Pub...

South Branch to Host Digital Bookmobile National Tour

As Published by Brian Bethel of the Abilene Reporter-News on Tuesday, March 10, 2020

The Digital Bookmobile National Tour will make a stop at the south branch of the Abilene Public Library in the Mall of Abilene on Tuesday, March 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m....

(Video) Learn About Women's Right to Vote at Local Workshop

Librarian Amy Watterman set up a great program for the community on the history of Women’s Right to Vote.  Honoring this month’s designation as Women’s History Month, this topic was well-received by those who attende...

To Eat or Not to Eat? We Can Answer That Question!

There are a few things we all need to stay alive.  Eating is certainly one of them.  Nowadays, many of us are jumping on the bandwagon of making a conscious decision to eat healthily, which can mean choosing the lesser of two evils when ...

(Video) Prepare Yourself for Lib-Con in April

In the latest Inside the Library series from your Abilene Public Library, you’ll learn about the upcoming Lib-Con events coming in April.  This is the library’s annual series of specialized programming that gives you a mini-co...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

Newly Visible Changes at Abilene Heritage Square

Covered by BigCountryHomepage on Thursday, March 6, 2020

Contractors’ trucks have been surrounding the entrances of Abilene Heritage Square for several days now.

Here’s a rundown of the activities going on inside and outside the project:...

(Video) West Texas Homeless Network Holds Free Monthly Coffee Meetings

Appeared on KTAB 4U with Adam Singleton on Wednesday, March 4, 2020

The West Texas Homeless Network tells us about their monthly coffee meetings where anyone is invited to learn about the help available for those in need.

FREE Coffee & Conversations!Wes...

(Video) Come Aboard the OverDrive Bookmobile

Your Abilene Public Library is pleased to host the OverDrive Bookmobile as it makes a stop at the South Branch Library during its national tour.  Stop by on Tuesday, March 17 from 11AM to 3PM and you’ll see the bookmobile in the parking...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

The Robots are Coming...to the Abilene Public Library

Don’t be alarmed folks; there is no impending danger from Skynet or other sapient machines. But the library has received an awesome set of Cue robots by Wonder Workshop as well as several sets of the award winning electronic learning tool, Snap ...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

(Video) Library Offers Week of Fun for Spring Break

Segment by Adam Singleton, KTAB 4U, Posted on Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Spring break is just around the corner and if you’re still looking for something fun for the kids the Abilene Public Library has plenty to offer.

Spring Break at The Librar...

Participate in Run4Reading Fundraiser

The Abilene Public Library and Chick-fil-A have had a great and growing partnership over the past few years.  We’ve conducted regular storytimes at their restaurants while they’ve provided children with treats and incentives f...

Black History Remembered at Abilene Library

The Abilene Public Library offers a vast collection of materials on African-American history and culture.  Available in print, electronic and audio/visual formats, the majority may be found in the non-fiction area of the Main Library but also at ...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

(Video) Inside the Library: New Printing Kiosks

In our latest Inside the Library video, Alyssa Crow (South Branch Manager) will be on hand to introduce you to the new Print Kiosks at your Abilene Public Library.  It’s the fastest way to pick up your print jobs using a self-service pr...

View 2019 Annual Report from Your Library

The Abilene Public Library’s Annual Report is now available for the public to view.  It’s a great way to chart our progress over the past year, and what an exciting year it was.  Within the report you’ll rec...

(Video) Inside the Library: Free Tax Assistance

The Free Tax Assistance program at your Abilene Public Library is one of the great services we’re pleased to host every year.  Open to the community to participate in, this is your chance to be able to visit your library and e-File your...

Calling All Local Performers to Open Mic Night Series

If you have a talent you’ve been waiting to showcase before your friends and neighbors, your Abilene Public Library has just the thing!  We are hosting monthly open mic nights where you can show off your skills onstage at the South Bran...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

All Library Locations Closed February 5-6

Update 02-05-20 at 5:00PM: All library locations will remained closed through Thursday, February 6, as well as City Hall and city offices with the exception of essential personnel.

All Abilene Public Library branch locations will be closed on Wednesday, Fe...

(Video) Inside the Library: Open Mic Night

The new Open Mic Night series at your South Branch Library kicked off with a bang.  40+ guests came out to support the talent that bravely took to center stage to entertain everyone.

Singing was the most popular form of entertainment for the eveni...

Ep. 48: Squirrels & Some Frozen Moles

It’s February...Black History Month...the Month of Love...whatever you choose, we’re here for another episode where Tremain will tell you about a Black History experience in Starbucks and Jessica has a frozen mole she wants to keep as ...

Read the Book Before You See it on Screen

I hope you enjoyed the column last week, and since 2020 will be chock full of book-to-movie adaptations, here are even more titles. So take a quick look at some more offerings and check in with your Abilene Public Library to start reading, since we all kn...

View this Month's Bibliofiles Newsletter

The Abilene Public Library hosts a wide range of events and activities for the entire community to enjoy.  With programming developed for youth, teens, and adults, there’s always something for everyone to get involved in.

Feel free to pe...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

Ep. 47: Squirrels & Some Drag Power to the People

We’re back for more podcast fun with Tremain and Jessica at your Abilene Public Library.  First off, we apologize for the technical difficulties with the audio, but we never noticed Jessica’s microphone went out after about 20...

(Video) Inside the Library: Annual Children's Workshop

Tremain Jackson sits down with Alyssa Crow to discuss the Annual Workshop coming up at your Abilene Public Library on Monday, March 2.  This all-day event is designed for area wide librarians, school librarians, school library aides, and other pr...

See If the Book Was Better at Your Library

Unsurprisingly, 2020 holds an avalanche of books being adapted for film and television. So take a skim through some of the new year’s latest offerings and check in with your Abilene Public Library to decide if, indeed, the book is better than th...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

Construction Work Begins on Former Lincoln Middle School Building

As covered by Joey Hollingsworth of KTAB/KRBC on Tuesday, January 22, 2020

Work has begun on the old Lincoln Middle School in Abilene, as crews prepare to transform the building into a new, high-tech hub.

According to a social media post from Abilene Herita...

(Video) Abilene Public Library to Begin Free Tax Assistance Program in February

Segment by Adam Singleton, KTAB 4U on Wednesday, January 22, 2020 

Filing your own taxes? The Abilene Public Library tells us how they can help for free.

Free Tax AssistanceFebruary 5th – April 11th10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Main Library...

Ep. 46: Squirrels & Something Wicked This Way Comes from Missouri

January is almost over, but the podcasting fun continues with hosts Tremain & Jessica from the Abilene Public Library.  On today’s show you’ll hear about the struggle with claustrophobia, how our thoughts are still with Au...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

Ep. 45: Squirrels & Seeing Clear in 2020

Join Tremain Jackson & Jessica Reyes for a fresh episode for the new year, and since the year is 2020, let’s kick off the year with trying to see things a little more clearly. Today’s show will be shorter than our usual shows, but ...

Learn to Make Lunch on the Go

Everyone’s busy, especially during the school year.  Because of this, school lunches for the kids may consist of a lunchmeat sandwich with chips, an apple or snack cake and a soda.  The same may appear in the lunchbox of any adult who ta...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

(Video) Know Your Rights: Home Buying 101

Your Abilene Public Library hosts regular "Know Your Rights" sessions in partnership with our friends from Legal Aid of Northwest Texas.  Usually conducted on a monthly basis, each features a different topic in the legal field for the c...

(Video) Abilene Public Library to Host Open Mic Night January

Segment by Adam Singleton, KTAB 4U on Wednesday, January 8, 2020

Have a talent you’ve been waiting to showcase? The Abilene Public Library is hosting an open mic night where you can show you best skills.

View the full event listing by Clicking Her...

Abilene Wide Open: Fandom Dance Party

You know, it's fine that the librarians danced the most. After all, Friday evening was the first after-hours Fandom Dance Party at the Abilene Public Library's Main Branch.

Not everyone knew what to expect, so hesitancy at cutting the rug in a new environm...

The Baker Street Irregulars are on the Case at Your Abilene Public Library

Your Abilene Public Library is beginning the new year with a new club for fans of one of the English speaking world’s most beloved literary figures. On Thursday, January 9, the Baker Street Irregulars: Abernetty Family of Abilene, Texas will hold their fi...

Find a New Hobby with the Abilene Public Library's Help

No matter how young we are, or how old we get, taking the time to relax with a favorite hobby, crafting activity or recreational pastime is something all can benefit from.  These things help us to reduce stress, spend time with family and friends...

Dance the Night Away in After Hours Library Event

If you enjoy any fandom, cosplay, geeky, or nerdy things - and you love to dance and meet new people - join us at your Main Library (202 Cedar St.) for our first ever Fandom Dance Party.  We'll host the event in the auditorium, located on the sec...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

Ep. 44: Squirrels & Some Love for Mariah

Join Tremain Jackson & Jessica Reyes for a fresh episode just before the holidays.  Jessica's loves the holiday season, but Tremain's a bit indifferent; however, congratulations to Mariah Carey and her hit Christmas Song "All I Want for ...

Perform in Library's New Open Mic Night Series

Are you a singer, poet, comedian, musician, or performer with the urge to entertain a captive audience?  If so, we incite you to you join in on the South Branch Library’s new Open Mic Night series where you can share your talent with others. &...

Broaden Your Holiday Horizons at Your Library

The Holiday season is a time when cheer and goodwill abound.  All things seem possible, perhaps because it brings out the child in all of us.  We once again feel capable of the creativity, the imagination, and the joyful, courageous aban...

Register for Conversational Spanish Series

Start the new year off right by signing up for a free, six-week class titled Let’s Talk: Conversational Spanish, hosted at your Mockingbird Branch Library.  Did you know over 400 million people worldwide speak Spanish?  That ma...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Everyone always looks out for popular reading material at the library, and each week we like to put a spotlight on the popular materials from the week compiled from the New York Times Best Sellers lists for Hardcover Fiction and Nonfiction titles. &nb...

Abilene Council Cements Agreement for Heritage Square, New Library

The Abilene City Council Thursday approved an agreement to donate the former Abilene High School/Lincoln Middle School property on South First Street to a nonprofit that plans to renovate the structure.

Once that project is done, expected to be around 2023...

New Abilene Librarian Needs to be Creative, Passionate, People-Oriented

Abilene City Manager Robert Hanna says he plans to start the search for a new city librarian in the new year. 

Hanna is looking for the right person who can take the Abilene Public Library to the next level, someone to shepherd the transition from...

New "Squirrels & Shiny Things" Episode

Gear up for another solo show as Tremain Jackson takes the helm while Jessica Reyes is out on vacation.  There may be a little less banter, but we still have some great content to give to everyone including a lot of news coverage to make up for l...

Council to Vote on Abilene High/Lincoln Middle School...

The Abilene City Council will vote to donate the former Lincoln Middle School to the Abilene Heritage Square project at its regular evening meeting Thursday.

The council plans to also vote on a lease agreement with the new owners to use space within the re...

Cook Up Some Fun with a Culinary Mystery

Good books and good food can go hand in hand, particularly during the holiday season, and books that mesh the two together have created a niche in the  mystery genre that continues to be popular at your Abilene Public Library.  I’m refer...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Get a look at the top 15 books in Hardcover Fiction & Nonfiction titles from the New York Times Best Sellers List.

(Video) Abilene Police Need to Identify Suspect

Abilene police need help identifying a suspect accused of stealing from the library.

The suspect was caught on camera taking merchandise from the Mockingbird Branch of the Abilene Public Library on December 5.

He was wearing a black sweatshirt and khaki sho...

(Video) Let's Build an Igloo!

The South Branch Library has already built an igloo in the past, and Branch Manager Alyssa Crow wanted to do so again.  Collecting well over 200 emptied and cleaned milk jugs, she got to work constructing her second igloo for the season. &nbs...

(Video) Viva Strings! Mini-Concert at City Sidewalks

Watch the full performance as recorded on Tuesday, December 2, 2019 at the Main Library's auditorium.

(Video) Abilene Public Library Hosts Gingerbread House Workshop

Segment by Adam Singleton, KTAB 4U

Next week you can build your very own gingerbread house at The Abilene Public Library. Here is how you can join the fun.

Gingerbread Houses WorkshopAbilene Public Library202 Cedar St.Monday, December 16th5:00 pm(325) 676-6...

New "Squirrels & Shiny Things" Episode

Tune into another episode of the library's podcast where we dish on library programming to attend this week, new DVD releases to look out for, and more. Catch our show here, or subscribe to us on the major podcasting platforms.

Catch a Dream at Your Abilene Public Library

These days everyone "knows" what a dream catcher is.  It's that hoop with webbing and feathers that people use to decorate their homes or put on their keychains.  Actually it is a Native American craft with meaning attached to ...

Reserve This Week's Best Sellers

Get a look at the top 15 books in Hardcover Fiction & Nonfiction titles from the New York Times Best Sellers List.

Tune Into New "Squirrels & Shiny Things" Episode

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS LATEST PODCAST EPISODE

Hello everyone, it's Tremain Jackson & Jessica Reyes coming at you, post-Thanksgiving, for some library talk to dish on some holiday selections you might want to ease into as well as all of our fun library to...

Remember Your Downtown Library this December

December is a wonderful time, full of holiday cheer and sooooo many things to do!  Your Abilene Public Library has many great programs all across our system, but I'd like to draw your attention to some we'll be hosting at the Main Library downtow...

(Video) What to Expect at the Abilene Public Library This December

There’s a plenty of fun coming up as the year winds down at The Abilene Public Library. We find out some of what you can look forward to.

Abilene Public Library202 Cedar St.(325) 677-2474abilenetx.gov/aplFind them on Facebook

Catch new "Squirrels & Shiny Things" Episode

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS LATEST PODCAST

In our latest episode, Tremain Jackson & Jessica Reyes are tackling the following topics when it comes to the library world:

• Library Events: None to cover this week because it's the week of Thanksgiving. May you all s...

(Video) Harvesting Family History with ACU

The Abilene Public Library loves partnering with local professionals to lead programming and workshops available to the public.  On Thursday, November 14, 2019, Mac Ice & Amanda Dietz, archivists at Abilene Christian University, were our gues...

School Library Journal Releases Top Picture Books

If there's one thing families can always count on finding at your local library, it's a great selection of reading materials for their children. The juvenile collection of the library remains the most circulated item type. Sometimes you might be looking f...

Join the Abilene Public Library's Online Social Soiree

In case you don’t know, you can keep up with your Abilene Public Library on social media.

The library maintains a presence on several of the most popular sites and can be accessed by visiting abilenetx.gov/apl. Look for the social media icons loc...

(Video) Preliminary Plans Solidified for Old Lincoln Middle School

Story by Jessica Ranck with KTAB/KRBC on November 12, 2019

While things may be quiet at the old Lincoln Middle School now, it won’t be long before the familiar sounds of books being stacked and checked in echo off these historic walls.

“...

(Video) Fall Fun Coming Soon at South Abilene Library

There are some fun programs and events coming up at the South Branch of The Abilene Public Library. We learn what you can expect.

Abilene Public Library South BranchMall of Abilene4310 Buffalo Gap Rd.Abilene, TX 79606PH: (325) 698-7565

Library Director Lori Grumet Retiring

Article from the Abilene Reporter-News on Wednesday, November 13, 2019 by Timothy Chipp

Change is coming to the Abilene Public Library, both in the short term and in the future.

While librarians and city officials continue working toward building and openin...

New "Squirrels & Shiny Things" Episode Available

Listen to Episode #39: Squirrels & Some Textual Healing

In our latest episode, Tremain Jackson & Jessica Reyes are tackling the following topics when it comes to the library world:

• Library Events to Attend: Hear about some great events for adults to...

No Youth Volleyball or Youth Basketball

Due to current circumstances with COVID-19, there will be no youth volleyball this fall and no youth basketball this winter. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Free Fun Event - Trout Fest 2020!

See what you can catch at Cal Young Park! We have adapted with the times, and we are having our Trout Fest go virtual and it’ll last up to ten days!  The event will take place at Cal Young Park Pond from December 5th - 15th. To officiall...

Mayor's Hike - Free Event!

After School Program Open For Enrollment

After School Program sign ups are underway for the 2020-2021 school year! Students ages 6-13 throughout the city of Abilene can register at any of our four recreation centers to attend after school. Our After School Program is available from 3pm-6pm at Co...

About Recreation

Find out more about the associations and awards of our Recreation Department.

Classes

Our Recreation Department offers different classes, ranging from aikido to dog obedience training!

Aquatics

Abilene is home to six aquatic facilities - five splash pads located throughout different parks in Abilene, and one aquatic center with water slides and a lazy river!

Adaptive Recreation

Staff plans and coordinates a variety of structured activities that teach life skills, games that improve cognitive and motor skill development.

No Youth Volleyball or Youth Basketball

Due to current circumstances with COVID-19, there will be no youth volleyball this fall and no youth basketball this winter. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Free Fun Event - Trout Fest 2020!

See what you can catch at Cal Young Park! We have adapted with the times, and we are having our Trout Fest go virtual and it’ll last up to ten days!  The event will take place at Cal Young Park Pond from December 5th - 15th. To officiall...

Mayor's Hike - Free Event!

After School Program Open For Enrollment

After School Program sign ups are underway for the 2020-2021 school year! Students ages 6-13 throughout the city of Abilene can register at any of our four recreation centers to attend after school. Our After School Program is available from 3pm-6pm at Co...

Police Department Award and Promotion Ceremony

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police Department will host an award and promotion ceremony to announce the promotion of two officers to the rank of Sergeant and award Life-Saving awards to 3 other individuals. The ceremony will be held on Thursday, O...

Hit and Run Investigation

Hit and Run Investigation

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police Department Traffic Investigation is looking for information on a hit-and-run which left a 40-year-old female pedestrian in critical condition. 

On Monday, October 12, at...

Multiple Vehicle Crash in North Abilene

Multiple Vehicle Crash in North Abilene

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police Department Traffic Division is investigating a multi-vehicle crash that sent four people to the hospital with two being air-lifted to the Metroplex with serious in...

Fatal Crash in North Abilene

– A 30-year-old female from Abilene was killed in a vehicle crash in North Abilene. Dispatch received the call of a crash in the 3600 block of Pine St. at around 2 p.m. involving a silver Ford Mustang and a refuse truck. The Mustang was stopped ...

North Abilene Credit Union Robbery

ABILENE, TX – Detectives with the Abilene Police Department are working a robbery of a north Abilene credit union that occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 29, 2020. A call of a robbery came into Dispatch at 11:34 a.m. by the First A...

Police Warn of Thieves Targeting Your Credit Card Information at Gas Pumps

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police Department was called to the Shell gas station at 1389 Sayles Blvd. on Saturday, September 26, in reference to credit card skimming devices located in three of the gas pumps. The owner of the stations discovered ...

Detectives Investigating Homicide on I-20

Detectives with the Abilene Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division are investigating a homicide that occurred on Interstate 20 on the evening of Monday, September 21, 2020.

A call of a crash came into Dispatch just after 11 p.m. at m...

Arrest made in 2016 Niblo Murder

On today’s date, Abilene Police Department Detectives with the assistance of the North Texas Fugitive Task Force arrested Luke Matthew Sweetser, date of birth 12-1-71, on a murder warrant.  Sweetser was located in the City of Dallas and...

2019 Bank Robbery Suspect Identified

Through a joint investigation with the local FBI office, Abilene Police have identified the suspect in a bank robbery which occurred in the early morning hours of September 24, 2019, at the First State Bank located at 2118 South Treadaway Blvd. A female b...

Fatal Crash in 3200 Blk of S. Danville

ABILENE, TX – A 45-year-old Abilene man was killed from a single vehicle crash on Thursday, August 27, 2020. The crash occurred just before 10:30 p.m. The driver of a 90’s GMC Pickup was traveling north on South Danville Dr. when he fa...

Abilene Police Chief Standridge, Sworn in as President of the Texas Police Chief’s Association

– Abilene Police Chief Stan Standridge has been sworn in as the next president of the Texas Police Chief’s Association for the coming year. TPCA was founded in 1958 to promote, encourage, and advance the professional development of Chi...

APD Warns Businesses with Fleet Vehicles Being Targeted by Thieves

The Abilene Police Department wants to warn businesses who own fleet vehicles about criminals targeting vehicle catalytic converters. In recent days, we have received reports from two different churches where their vans were targeted and the catalytic con...

Parents Arrested in Connection to Death of Infant

– Police and paramedics were called to a home in the 5300 Block of Taos Dr. in Southwest Abilene on May 22, for an injured subject. When officers arrived, a 22-month-old was found unresponsive and was later pronounced deceased.

 The Crim...

Abilene Police Department’s 57th Graduating Class

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police Department is proud to announce the graduation of Academy Class 57. Six police cadets will graduate Thursday, July 23, 2020. The ceremony will be held at the Abilene Convention Center at 6 p.m. Due to the current...

Abilene Man Arrested for Possessing Lewd Material

– Abilene Police Cyber Crimes in conjunction with the Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division arrested a 41-year-old Abilene man. On Wednesday, July 22, 2020, detectives executed a search and arrest warrant at a home located...

One Group of Graffiti Suspects Identified

The Abilene Police Department’s Youth Division, along with assistance from other units, began investigating a string of graffiti cases in the downtown area which began in early July. The graffiti contained hate speech and symbols. A group has be...

Police Searching for Suspect in Aggravated Assault

The Abilene Police Department are looking for a suspect who stabbed a female while attempting to steal her vehicle. On Wednesday, July 1, 2020, at around 1:30 p.m. a female reported that a white male wearing a white tank top, had attempted to steal her ve...

APD Detectives Make Arrest in 2019 Homicide

On Thursday, July 2, 2020, Abilene Police Detectives arrested a 32-year-old Abilene man for the murder of another Abilene man which occurred in December 3, 2019. Detectives arrested Jose Robert Avalos (32 yoa) and charged him with homicide. He was arreste...

Abilene Man Arrested on Child Pornography Charge

The Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes arrested a 32-year-old Abilene man on child pornography charges. On Thursday, July 2, 2020, detectives conducted an investigation at a residence in the 600 block of North Jefferson St. They contacted 32-year-old ...

25 Yr. Old Man Arrested for Promoting Child Pornography

The Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes, with the cooperation of the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations, arrested a 25-year-old Abilene man for the charge of Promotion of Child Pornography. Johnchris Glisson was arrested on July ...

19 yr. old Female Arrested for Child Pornography

Abilene Police Detectives arrested a 19-year-old Abilene woman for promoting child pornography. On Thursday, June 25, the Abilene Police Cyber Crimes along with the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations executed a search and arrest war...

Fatal Crash in North Abilene

Police responded to a traffic crash at Grape Street and West Overland Trail at 4:31 p.m., Thursday, June 25, 2020. The driver of a white 2010 Chevrolet Malibu was traveling south on Grape Street, approaching the West Overland Trail intersection when the v...

Threshold Program begins to Build Trust and Legitimacy

Decades of research affirm that people are more likely to obey the law when they believe those enforcing it have authority that is perceived as legitimate by those subject to the authority. The public confers legitimacy; it is not assumed.  As we...

CRT One Year Anniversary

Betty Hardwick Center, Abilene Police Department, and Abilene Fire Department will celebrate the one-year anniversary of the Community Response Team on Tuesday, June 23^rd at 2:45 at Betty Hardwick Center’s Board Room, 2616 S. Clack Street, Suite...

Police Seek Possible Victims

The Abilene Police Department is seeking assistance from automobile car lots in the area to include, Amarillo, Snyder, Sweetwater, Eastland, and possibly other areas, and locally, who may have been targeted by two or more suspects attempting to steal vehi...

Cyber Crimes Arrest Four on Various Charges

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes arrested two men and two women for various drug and child pornography charges. On Wednesday, June 17, 2020, detectives with the Cyber Crimes Unit executed a search and arrest warrant at a ...

Suspect Arrested in Connection to an Overnight Shooting at the Whataburger in South Abilene

Update: Detectives arrested 24-year-old Wesley Benavides on Monday, June 15, and charged him with Aggravated Assault. Benavides is accused of firing at a vehicle in the drive-thru of the Whataburger on South First St. on June 7, after an altercation. Ther...

Rodney T. Holder Loop 322 Dedication

On behalf of Annemarie Holder and the Holder family, the Abilene Police Department extends an invitation to the dedication of Loop 322 in east Abilene. At this time, a sign dedicating Loop 322 as Rodney T. Holder Memorial Highway will be unveiled. The ded...

Police Investigating Overnight Shooting in South Abilene

ABILENE, TX – On Sunday, June 7, at approximately 10:20 p.m. an officer in the area called in a shooting at the Whataburger fast-food restaurant on South Pioneer and South First. The Officer at the nearby intersection witnessed part of the alter...

Police Seek Information on Suspected Child Sexual Abuser

ABILENE, TX – On Thursday, June 4, 2020, Abilene Police Detectives arrested 55-year-old James Graenser of Abilene for First Degree Felony Continuous Sexual Assault of a Child. He was arrested at his residence located in the 2300 block of South 3...

Abilene Man Arrested for Sexual Assault of a Child

Abilene Police Cyber Crimes in conjunction with the Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division arrested a 52-year-old Abilene man for Sexual Assault of a Child.

On Thursday, June 4, 2020, detectives executed a search and arrest warrant at...

Planned Downtown Peaceful Demonstration

 Today, Police Administration learned that APD personnel contacted business owners in downtown Abilene about potential protests in the downtown area. Earlier this week there were unconfirmed rumors protestors would resort to property destruction,...

APD Responds to Nationwide Events - Abilene United

Police Chief Stan Standridge – “Devastation struck the Floyd family with the passing of George Floyd in Minnesota on Monday, May 25, 2020. It was done unlawfully at the hands of those wearing a police uniform. Mr. Floyd leaves behind t...

Abilene Man Arrested for Sex Offender Registry Non-Compliance

Abilene Police Department Detectives with Cyber Crimes arrested 26-year-old Juan Garcia on Thursday, May 5, 2002. Garcia was not complying with his court-ordered Sex Offender Registry which led to Detectives searching for Garcia. Detectives executed a sea...

Abilene Man Arrested for Child Pornography

Local police arrested a 23-year-old Abilene man for possessing child pornography. On Wednesday, May 6, 2020, the Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes in conjunction with Dyess Air Force Base’s Office of Special Investigations, executed a searc...

Two Area Males Arrested for Child Sex Crimes

The Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes along with the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations, arrested a Baird man and a Breckenridge man for two separate incidents involving crimes against children.

On Wednesday, April 29, police ex...

APD Confirms Eight more Cases of COVID-19

On Tuesday, April 28, 2020, medical personnel confirmed eight more officers with the Abilene Police Department having tested positive for the Novel Coronavirus, known as COVID-19. This brings the total to 11 confirmed cases as of 5 p.m. The officers confi...

APD Confirms Three Cases of COVID-19

On Monday, April 27, 2020, medical personnel confirmed three officers with the Abilene Police Department have tested positive for the Novel Coronavirus, known as COVID-19. The officers were tested as a result of a possible exposure to a first responder la...

Dyess Airman Sought by Police Identified

ABILENE, TX – The identity of the Dyess Airman who assaulted Dyess personnel on Wednesday, April 22, before fleeing and eluding police has been identified. Police are still looking for 37-year-old Dyess Airman, Erland Injerd. He continues to be ...

APD Assists in Search for Dyess Airman

ABILENE, TX – On Wednesday, April 22, 2020, at 3:38 pm, Abilene Police responded to an assist-agency call at Dyess AFB at a home located on Virginia Street. Security Forces along with other Dyess personnel were interacting with a service member ...

Patrol Officers Recognized

The Abilene Police Uniformed Services Division would like to recognize two of the four officers that will be eligible for the 2020 Patrol Officer of the Year award. Officers Andrew Spurgin and Jerod Daniel were selected by the Patrol Command Staff for the...

Cyber Crimes Arrest 67 Year Old Abilene Man

Detectives with the Abilene Police Department’s Cyber Crimes, Fraud Unit and the Texas Department of Public Safety, arrested a 67-year-old Abilene man this morning. Officers executed a search and arrest warrant in the early hours of April 15, at...

Cyber Crimes Arrests Abilene Man for Crimes Against Children

ABILENE, TX – Police arrested 36-year-old Larry Don Sparks for Sexual Performance by a Child and Promoting Child Pornography. On Wednesday, April 8, Abilene Police Cyber Crimes along with the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigat...

Motorcycle Fatal Crash Investigation

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police Department Traffic Division is investigating the fatal crash of a motorcycle rider. The crash occurred on Saturday, March 28, 2020 at 11:06 p.m. in the 3500 Block of North First Street. The single rider, 48 year ...

Haskell Man Arrested by Cyber Crimes

ABILENE, TX – Abilene Police assisted in the arrest of a 37 year old Haskell, TX., man for Promotion of Child Pornography. The Abilene Police Department’s Cyber Crimes Unit along with the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Inve...

Two Area Men Arrested for Child Crimes

ABILENE, TX – Abilene Police arrested two men, one from Abilene and the other from Aspermont, for crimes against children. On March 19, 2020, the Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes along with the Texas Department of Public Safety’s...

Update: Officer Involved Shooting Male Identified

ABILENE, TX – Next of kin notification has been made on the deceased from Tuesday morning’s incident. He is identified as 28-year-old Lebarron Ballard of Abilene. This call was originally dispatched as a Felony Robbery which was follow...

Officer Involved Shooting

ABILENE, TX – A man was shot and killed by two on-duty police officers early in the morning on March 18, 2020 after attacking both of the officers with a knife. Police were called to a convenience store located in the 2400 Block of South First a...

Chief Standridge Response to Coronavirus

This is a trying time for our nation and our community, yet we remain Abilene Strong. We come together in times of difficulty. We take care of each other, as was evidenced in our community’s response to the May 2019 tornado. To address the addit...

Cyber Crimes Arrests 29 Area Men for Targeting Children

ABILENE, TX – In mid-March, the Abilene Police Department’s Cyber Crimes Unit, Fraud Unit, and Special Operations Division, with collaboration from the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division and the U.S. Mar...

Pedestrian Fatality

ABILENE, TX – On Friday, March 6, 2020, at 10:30 p.m. Dispatch received a call of a crash involving a pedestrian who was struck by a vehicle on the 300 Block of US Highway 277 also known as Winters Freeway, north bound lane. First responders arr...

APD’s Chief Standridge and Beard Receive Prestigious Awards

Each year, the Regional Victim Crisis Center holds the Men of Strength and Style Show fundraiser. The committee chooses two outstanding citizens to bestow two of their top honors for their part in helping our community and more importantly, the work they ...

Suspect Arrested and Charged with Homicide

Detectives with the Abilene Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division arrested 50-year-old Gene McCarter and charged him with Homicide. On Wednesday, February 19, at 12:46 a.m. McCarter called 9-1-1 to report that he came back to the h...

Abilene Female Arrested for Distributing Child Pornography

ABILENE, TX – Detectives with Abilene Police Department’s Cyber Crimes arrested 25-year-old Cassie Watson and charged her with Second Degree Felony Possession of Child Pornography with Intention to Promote, Third Degree Felony Tamperin...

Taylor County Man Charged with Child Pornography

ABILENE, TX – Detectives with Cyber Crimes arrested and charged a 27-year-old man with child sex crimes. On Wednesday, February 12, 2020, APD’s Cyber Crimes Unit, along with agents from the Texas Department of Public Safety, executed a...

Three Arrested on Fraud and Forgery Charges

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police Department arrested two males and a female from Georgia, suspected of trying to pass forged checks in Abilene. Police were notified by a south Abilene business of individuals attempting to cash forged checks. A d...

Police Arrest Male Suspect for Making Terroristic Threat

December 5, 2019

Arrest Male Suspect for Making Terroristic Threat

ABILENE, TX – Abilene Police arrested a 42 year old man for threatening the life of Police Chief Stan Standridge. On Tuesday, December 3, a male subject placed a call to police dis...

APD Investigating Homicide in North Abilene

December 4, 2019

                                          &nbs...

UPDATE: Cyber Crimes Human Trafficking Investigation

December 4, 2019 

UPDATE: Cyber Crimes Human Trafficking Investigation

ABILENE, TX – On Tuesday, December 3, 2019, the Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes Unit began asking for public input in helping to identify 15 male subje...

Notice of Appeal of Indefinite Suspension

Appeal of Indefinite Suspension to a Hearing Examiner

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Mr. LeRoy R. Bartman, Arbitrator, American Arbitration Association will convene the hearing on the above referenced appeal of Patric Sumrall at the following date, time, and ...

Notice of General Election on November 3, 2020

Notice of General Election November 3, 2020

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT a general election will be held within the City of Abilene, Texas, on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, between the hours of 7:00 am. and 7:00 p.m., as provided in Resolution Nos. 130-2020 ca...

Notice of Possible Quorum

Development Corporation of Abilene, Inc (DCOA) Board of Directors Notice of Possible Quorum

Abilene City Council Meeting

Thursday, July 9, 20208:30am

Abilene City Hall2nd Floor Council Chambers555 Walnut StreetAbilene, Texas 79601

No DCOA business will be dis...

Modifying the Extension of the Disaster Declaration to Adopt Executive Order GA-18

On the 16th day of March, 2020, a Declaration of Local Disaster was issued to allow the City of Abilene to take measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and promote the health and safety of Abilene residents.

On April 30, 2020, the Disast...

Modifying the Extension of the Disaster Declaration Until April 30

On the 16th day of March, 2020, a Declaration of Local Disaster was issued to allow the City of Abilene to take measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and promote the health and safety of Abilene residents.

That this Declaration and Ord...

Modifying the Extension of the Disaster Declaration

On the 16th day of March, 2020, a Declaration of Local Disaster was issued to allow the City of Abilene to take measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and promote the health and safety of Abilene residents.

That this Declaration and Ord...

Mayor Issues Modified Order

On the 16th day of March, 2020, a Declaration of Local Disaster was issued to allow the City of Abilene to take measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and promote the health and safety of Abilene residents.

Due to the substantial risks ...

Mayor Issues Disaster Declaration

On the 16th day of March, 2020, a Declaration of Local Disaster was issued to allow the City of Abilene to take measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and promote the health and safety of Abilene residents.

Read the Full Order by the Ma...

Notice of Drawing for a Place on the General Election Ballot

NOTICE OF DRAWING FOR A PLACE ON THE GENERAL ELECTION BALLOT

Notice is hereby given of a drawing to determine the order in which the names of candidates for Mayor and City Council Place 3 and Place 4 are to be printed on the ballot for the General Election...

Notice of Possible Quorum

Development Corporation of Abilene, Inc (DCOA) Board of Directors Notice of Possible Quorum

Retirement Reception of Kim Tarrant

Thursday, January 30, 20205:00pm

The Mill239 Locust StreetAbilene, Texas 79602

A discussion will be held relating to the retirement...

Notice of Possible Quorum

Abilene City Council Notice of Possible Quorum

City of Abilene Recreation Feasibility Community Meeting

Tuesday, January 14, 20205:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Abilene Convention CenterConference Room 41100 North 6th StreetAbilene, TX 79601

Notice of Possible Quorum

Development Corporation of Abilene, Inc. Notice of Possible Quorum

Abilene City Council

Thursday, December 193:30 p.m.

Abilene City Hall555 Walnut StreetAbilene, TX 79601

Notice of Possible Quorum

City of Abilene City Council Notice of Possible Quorum

Airport Development Board Meeting & Airfield Tour

Wednesday, December 11th3:00 p.m.

Abilene Regional Airport2933 Airport Blvd.Lower Level Conference Room of the Terminal

Street Projects for 10/26/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N2
• Zone S17

Concrete Maintenance

• 2317 Marsalis Drive
  • Alley apron repair at entrance of alley
• 2318 Marsalis Drive
  • Alley apron repair at entrance of alley

Crack Seal

• Hartford Street
  • Closed from Arnold Boulevard to South Clack Street
• Texas Avenue...

Street Projects for 10/19/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N2
• Zone S17

Crack Seal

• Catclaw Drive
  • Closed from Bettes Lane to Chimney Rock Rd 
• Forrest Creek Court
  • Closed from Hillside Drive to cul de sac
• Glen Abbey
  • Closed from Winged Foot to cul de sac
• Hillside Drive
  • Closed from Forrest Hills Rd...

Street Projects for 10/12/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N2
• Zone N3
• Zone S17

Crack Seal

• Bettes Lane
  • Closed from Ridgeline to Catclaw Drive
• Catclaw Drive
  • Closed from Chimney Rock Rd to dead end
• Forrest Creek Court
  • Closed from Hillside Court to dead end
• Glen Abbey
  • Closed from Wingedfoot to cul de sac
• Hi...

Street Projects for 10/5/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N2
• Zone N3
• Zone S18

Crack Seal

• Fairway Oaks Blvd
  • Closed from Antilley Rd to Hardwick Rd
• Florence Drive
  • Closed from Waldrop Dr to Naples Dr
• Forrest Creek Court
  • Closed from Hillside Court to dead end
• Hillside Court
  • Closed from Forrest Hills Rd to...

Street Projects for 9/28/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N2
• Zone N3
• Zone S18
• Zone S19

Crack Seal

• Hampton Hills Street
  • Closed from Delaware Road to Jennings Drive
• Jennings Drive
  • Closed from Ivernes Street to Delaware Road
• Oakley Street
  • Closed from Ivernes Street to Hampton Hills Street
• Paul Street
  • Clos...

Street Projects for 9/21/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N3
• Zone S19

Gravel Road Maintenance

• Zone N17

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair (Minor)

• Anson Avenue & Clinton Street
  • Lane closures only
• 1309 Ben Richey Drive
  • Mill & fill
• North Danville Drive
  • Closed North 10th Street to Ambler Avenue
• North...

Street Projects for 9/14/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N3
• Zone N4
• Zone S19
• Zone S20

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair (Minor)

• 1309 Ben Richey Drive
  • Closed from Boys Ranch Road to South Treadaway Boulevard
• North Danville Drive
  • Closed North 10th Street to Ambler Avenue
• North San Jose Drive
  • Closed from...

Street Projects for 9/8/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N3
• Zone N4
• Zone S20

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair (Minor)

• 1309 Ben Richey Drive
  • Closed from Boys Ranch Road to South Treadaway Boulevard
• North Danville Drive
  • Closed North 10th Street to Ambler Avenue
• North San Jose
  • Closed from North Pioneer...

Street Projects for 8/31/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N4
• Zone S20

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair (Minor)

• 399 Ben Richey Drive
  • Closed from Maple Street to Boys Ranch Road
• 1309 Ben Richey Drive
  • Closed from Boys Ranch Road to South Treadaway Boulevard
• North Danville Drive
  • Closed North 10th Street...

Abilene Heritage Square

Abilene Heritage Square is now a Texas non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation that has been formed to rehabilitate and re-purpose the former Lincoln Middle School and original Abilene High School.

Downtown Hotel

With the design process now underway, the City and its project partners anticipate breaking ground on the 206-room full-service hotel located in the 500 block of Cypress and Cedar Streets in the summer of 2020.

Street Projects

The City of Abilene is working to invest over $20 million into our streets in 2020, through funding sources including the new Street Maintenance Fee, the Development Corporation of Abilene (DCOA), and the 2015 bond program.

Financial Transparency

In an effort to continue to enhance financial transparency, the City of Abilene is offering an interactive reporting tool that allows citizens to explore our budget data online.