City closures & operations for Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday

The majority of City of Abilene offices and service centers will close Monday, January 18, 2021, in observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. For water emergencies call the water hotline 325.676.6000 at any time. For animal related emergencies co...

City ready to address traffic concerns at new Taylor Elementary campus

Abilene City Council and City staff would like to reassure residents that they are aware of concerns expressed in relation to traffic created at the opening of the new Taylor Elementary located at 1719 East North 10th Street, and are working with Abilene ...

The Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District builds list for next round of COVID Vaccinations

The Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District is preparing a screening tool to assist in scheduling people who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine based on the criteria in the Texas Department of State Health Services guidelines for distributi...

Abilene Area Recycler No Longer Accepting Cardboard & Paper

Due to a prolonged depressed recycling market, Abilene’s contractor for the processing and marketing of recyclable materials, Texas Metals and Recycling Company, will no longer accept cardboard or paper materials. This change results in the City of Abilen...

Latest COVID-19 testing numbers for January 15, 2021

COVID-19 testing numbers from the Abilene Taylor County Public Health District for January 15, 2021 include 161 positives (PCR & antigen), 107 recoveries, 132 total hospitalizations, & 3 deaths:

• 233: a female in her 50s. It is unknown if she had pr...

ABI reminds new drone owners to register with FAA

If a new drone is on your gift list this year there are a couple of things Abilene Regional Airport wants to remind you of before taking off for that first flight.  

Unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones,&a...

CityLink releases a "Where's My Bus?" App, TransLoc

CityLink is proud to introduce a “Where’s My Bus?” App by TransLoc.

With this app CityLink riders will be able to:

• See scheduled arrival times of the bus
• Live tracking of bus location
• Pin your favorite stops and more

Download the ...

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...

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...

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 closures & operations for Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday

The majority of City of Abilene offices and service centers will close Monday, January 18, 2021, in observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. For water emergencies call the water hotline 325.676.6000 at any time. For animal related emergencies co...

City ready to address traffic concerns at new Taylor Elementary campus

Abilene City Council and City staff would like to reassure residents that they are aware of concerns expressed in relation to traffic created at the opening of the new Taylor Elementary located at 1719 East North 10th Street, and are working with Abilene ...

The Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District builds list for next round of COVID Vaccinations

The Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District is preparing a screening tool to assist in scheduling people who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine based on the criteria in the Texas Department of State Health Services guidelines for distributi...

Abilene Area Recycler No Longer Accepting Cardboard & Paper

Due to a prolonged depressed recycling market, Abilene’s contractor for the processing and marketing of recyclable materials, Texas Metals and Recycling Company, will no longer accept cardboard or paper materials. This change results in the City of Abilen...

The Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District will Receive 600 Moderna Vaccines This Week

The Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District has been notified that it will receive 600 Moderna vaccines sometime this week. This will be the first round of vaccines to be delivered to the ATCPHD. The Moderna vaccine does not require ultra-cold storag...

ABI reminds new drone owners to register with FAA

If a new drone is on your gift list this year there are a couple of things Abilene Regional Airport wants to remind you of before taking off for that first flight.  

Unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones,&a...

CityLink releases a "Where's My Bus?" App, TransLoc

CityLink is proud to introduce a “Where’s My Bus?” App by TransLoc.

With this app CityLink riders will be able to:

• See scheduled arrival times of the bus
• Live tracking of bus location
• Pin your favorite stops and more

Download the TransLoc App using Google Play...

CDC Releases New Guidelines for Quarantine Measures

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released new guidelines for quarantine measures for individuals exposed to someone with COVID-19. The guidance of a 14-day quarantine period is still considered the safest way to prevent spreading th...

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...

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...

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...

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,...

Upcoming Events

See what's up and coming at the Abilene Convention Center!

COVID-19 Information for Planners

The Abilene Convention Center’s top priority is the safety of each of our guests as well as that of our employees. In order to maintain a safe and healthy facility, we are adhering to the CDC guidelines and enforcing certain health and safety re...

Stay Safe, Abilene

If you are attending an event at the Convention Center, please remember these simple guidelines. Thank you for doing your part to keep Abilene, Texas--and each other--safe and healthy!  

Read on...

COVID-19 Vaccine Request Forms

COVID-19 Vaccine Supply

The Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District (ATCPHD) is an approved COVID-19 vaccine provider. Supply is currently limited and vaccine administration is based on state guidance which can be found on the Department of State Heal...

COVID-19 Community Survey

The novel coronavirus, also known as SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, has been causing illness around the world since late 2020.  We are interested in your opinions about this virus, and the possible vaccine against the virus. Your participation is volun...

Latest COVID-19 testing numbers as of January 15, 2021

COVID-19 testing numbers from the Abilene Taylor County Public Health District for January 15, 2021 include 161 positives (PCR & antigen), 107 recoveries, 132 total hospitalizations, & 3 deaths:

• 233: a female in her 50s. It is unknown if she had pr...

The Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District will Receive 600 Moderna Vaccines This Week

The Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District has been notified that it will receive 600 Moderna vaccines sometime this week. This will be the first round of vaccines to be delivered to the ATCPHD. The Moderna vaccine does not require ultra-cold storag...

CDC Releases New Guidelines for Quarantine Measures

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released new guidelines for quarantine measures for individuals exposed to someone with COVID-19. The guidance of a 14-day quarantine period is still considered the safest way to prevent spreading th...

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...

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...

AFD Employment

Apply for a job at the Abilene Fire Department

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...

Structure Fire: 1700 Block of North 8th

On January 10, 2021 at approximately 7:48 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire located in the 1700 block of N 8th Street. The first arriving units found heavy smoke and flames showing from the front of the single-family resident...

Structure Fire: 2300 Block of Wyndham Ct

On January 9th at approximately 7:30 pm, the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire in the 2300 block of Wyndham Court. Crews arrived to find a three story residence with smoke and fire showing from the roof on the back of the s...

COVID-19 Vaccines for Firefighters & Staff

The Abilene Fire Department has provided an opportunity for firefighters and staff to receive the Covid19 Pfizer vaccine or the Moderna vaccine. As of today Wednesday December 30, 2020, approximately 60 personnel received the Pfizer vaccine and 26 personn...

Structure Fire: 4200 Block of Caldwell Road

On December 13 at approximately 0348, the Abilene Fire department responded to a residential structure fire at the 4200 block of Caldwell Road in Abilene Texas. Crews arrived to find heavy flames and smoke showing from a single family residential mobile h...

Vehicle Fire: 900 S Danville

On December 10, 2020 at approximately 1600 hours the Abilene Fire Department was dispatched to a vehicle fire next to a structure in the 900 block of South Danville. Crews arrived to find a vehicle fully involved. Crews made a quick attack and knock down ...

Structure Fire: 500 Block of EN 23rd

On Monday, December 7, 2020 at approximately 09:20 am, fire crews with the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire in the 500 block of East North 23rd Street in Abilene, TX. On arrival, fire crews noticed heavy smoke and fire com...

Wildland Fire: 2900 Old Anson Road

On December 6 2020 at approximately 4 p.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a wildland fire behind the 2900 Old Anson Road. Crews arrived to find a small outside rubbish and wildland fire. The fire was located inside a heavily wooded area which m...

Structure Fire: 800 Block of Alameda Road

On December 6 2020 at approximately 4:26 p.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire at the 800 Block of Alameda Road. Crews arrived to find a heavy smoke showing from the rear of the residence. The fire was located inside ...

Structure Fire: 4600 Block of North 1st

On December 05, 2020 at approximately 08:20 p.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire located in the 4600 block of North 1st Street. Fire crews arrived to find a small metal building with moderate smoke emitting from the eave area of...

Structure Fire: 5600 Block of South 1st

On Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at approximately 22:50 crews with the Abilene Fire Department responded to residential structure fire located in the 5600 block of South 1st Street. On arrival, crews noted a single story multi-family residential structure wit...

Structure Fire: 7000 Block of Spring Water Avenue

On November 19th, 2020 at approximately 1:26 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire at the 7000 block of Spring Water Avenue. Crews arrived to find a house with smoke and flames showing at the rear of the residence. Th...

Structure Fire: 500 Block of Grape Street

On November 12, 2020 at approximately 2:05 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire located in the 500 block of Grape Street. Fire crews arrived to find an abandoned commercial structure with an exterior fire as well as smoke coming...

Structure Fire, Fatality: 900 Block of ES 11th

On November 11th, 2020, at approximately 04:50 a.m. the Abilene Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 900 block of ES 11th. Fire crews arrived to find a RV with heavy smoke and flames showing from the windows and roof. An interior fire atta...

Structure Fire: 600 Block of EN 15th Street

On November 6th, 2020 at approximately 1:19 p.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire at the 600 block of EN 15th Street. Crews arrived to find a house with smoke and flames showing. The fire was located inside a small de...

Structure Fire: 3500 block of North 10th

On Monday, November 2, 2020 at approximately 09:00 crews with the Abilene Fire Department responded to residential structure fire located in the 3500 block of North 10th. On arrival, crews noted a single story residential structure with smoke coming from ...

Structure Fire: 2500 block of Woodridge Street

On November 2, 2020 at approximately 08:59 a.m., the Abilene Fire Department responded to a residential structure fire in the 2500 block of Woodridge Street. Crews arrived to find a back porch of wood construction on fire. Fire crews were able to quickly ...

Structure Fire: 5000 Block of South 7th

On Wednesday, October 28, 2020 at approximately 1:30 pm crews with the Abilene Fire Department responded to residential structure fire located in the 5000 block of South 7th. On arrival, crews noted a single story residential structure with smoke and flam...

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...

South Branch Closed, Jan. 10, 2021

Due to inclement weather, the South Branch Library, located in the Mall of Abilene, has closed for Sunday, January 10, 2021.  With more snow expected in our forecast for today, we'are asking that our patrons stay home and keep warm.

While...

Learn a New Language in 2021

2020 may have been a year many of us would rather forget, it did provide many of us with the opportunity to get healthy, learn a new skill, pick up a hobby, invest in DIY projects at home, and more. Well, we may not have all capitalized on this, but that ...

Learn How to Crack the Case at Your Library

Various television shows like “CSI”, “Forensic Files,” and others like them made people want to know more about forensic sciences. Your Abilene Public Library has quite a few books to help you learn more in this new year! 

Dr. Henry Lee’s Forensic...

Retiring Abilene Librarian Janis Test Loves Books, News, People

As published by Greg Jacklewicz, Editor of the Abilene Reporter-News, on Thursday, December 30, 2020

Janis Test is retiring.

Hippo, hippo, hooray!

Janis, who still is known around town as Janis Cochran from back in her newshound days, is ending a 23-year car...

Graphic Novels Put a New Spin on Classic Books

Graphic novels are definitely a misunderstood book format in the library. When people hear the term, they probably automatically think of superheroes, zombies, and comic books. While many graphic novels are about superheroes and fantasy stories, there is ...

What Are You Reading Over the Holidays?

Christmas will be coming soon, and your Abilene Public Library has a number of books to help get you in the holiday spirit.

For a lighthearted look at how to celebrate “the one time of the year when both the divine and debutantes take center stag...

Play a Digital "Whodunit" with Your Abilene Public Library

“Among us” is a clever video game that has been amassing popularity lately with all ages.  For those familiar with party games such as Werewolf or Mafia the game follows a similar pattern just in a digital format exce...

AEP Foundation Gives $100,000 to Abilene Heritage Square

As Published in the Abilene Reporter-News by Brian Bethel on Tuesday, December 8, 2020

AEP Foundation presented a $100,000 grant Tuesday to help fund completion of Abilene Heritage Square, the future home of the Abilene Public Library's main branc...

Read the Books that Became Your Favorite Games

Books and video games have more in common than many people think. In fact many amazing video games are based on books and vice versa. Your Abilene Public Library has many of these books, if you’re interested in where your favorite games came fro...

Library Maintaining COVID-19 Safety Measures

As a nation, we all have been following the progression of COVID-19. With numbers on the rise, as of recent, health officials are stressing the importance on ways to keep yourself safer when it comes to being exposed to the coronavirus.

When the Abilene Pu...

Get the Pros & Cons on Hot Topics at Your Library

Your Abilene Public Library subscribes to a number of respected online databases available to all library cardholders.  Each month we’ll be highlighting one of interest to the public, and this month we want to introduce you to Issues &a...

Find These Two Famous Fictional Inspectors at Your Library

The two shows in this article are inspired by the works of two authors, Peter Robinson and Colin Dexter, available from your Abilene Public Library. Peter Robinson is an English-Canadian crime writer. He got his BA in Leeds, England and then emigrated to ...

Library Annual Report Now Available

Each year your Abilene Public Library produces an Annual Report providing you with a recap of our activities over the course of the previous year.  We have put together our latest report and it is available for viewing online.  In this r...

Meet Library Director Julee Hatton

Julee Hatton is the City of Abilene's new Director of Library Services.  Hailing from Lincoln, Nebraska, as the former Assistant Director of the Lincoln City Libraries, she arrived in Abilene, TX and was ready to serve in the middle of a...

Get Cooking With Your Library

Have you ever read a book and came across food that sounded wonderful or a book that has a few recipes included? The recipes really add to the book and might even inspire the reader to make the recipe themselves. Your Abilene Public Library has a variety ...

Abilene Public Library Offers Mobile Hotspot Devices

Going virtual for school or work has become the norm in our country this year. However, not everyone has internet access at home to take part in the virtual side of things. We can help with that now! Your Abilene Public Library (APL) launched its pilot Mo...

Workers Constructing New Future at Historic Abilene Building

Construction workers are working to bring a new future to a historic Abilene building.

The old building on South First Street that went from being Abilene High School (AHS) to Lincoln Middle School will soon serve as a multipurpose community center with a ...

Victorian England Remains a Popular Setting for Drama

Armchair travel to distant lands is one type of travel. However, with period piece shows produced in the UK the viewer can also time travel. Let your Abilene Public Library help you set your imagination free through these shows!  

Some of the most...

Bonus Borrows Returns from Hoopla!

Wonderful news all you users of Hoopla Digital, the streaming service we offer to connect you to a wonderful library of eBooks, movies, eAudiobooks, comics, music, and...even better, the materials are always available.  The great news is...

Get Car Repair Help Online with Chilton Database

Your library subscribes to a number of respected online databases available to all library cardholders at no charge.  Each month we will highlight a different database for you to get involved in using, to show you the wealth of information at you...

Check Out the Library's Collection of British Midcountry Drama

This article’s shows come out of the Cotswold region and County Durham and Newcastle upon Tyne in England. They are both period pieces examining mid twentieth century England and legal practices of the time. “George Gently” and “Father Brown” are characte...

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...

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...

Closed on Martin Luther King Jr Day

Our city recreation centers and other facilities such as Community Services and the Municipal Cemetery Office will be closed Monday, January 18th in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

No Daddy Daughter Dance

We are sad to announce there will be no Daddy Daughter Dance held this year due to the current circumstances with COVID-19. Everyone's health and safety is our top priority, thus the reason for us making this tough decision. However, we ...

Parks and Recreation Updates

On December 17, 2020, City Council adopted an Ordinance that will bring some changes to the following Departments/Divisions in the near future:

Seniors

The City of Abilene no longer offers senior transportation by way of Senior Services. Alternative transpo...

About Recreation

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

Seniors

Learn more about what our Senior Services have to offer along with staying up to date on the latest news.

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!

Closed on Martin Luther King Jr Day

Our city recreation centers and other facilities such as Community Services and the Municipal Cemetery Office will be closed Monday, January 18th in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

No Daddy Daughter Dance

We are sad to announce there will be no Daddy Daughter Dance held this year due to the current circumstances with COVID-19. Everyone's health and safety is our top priority, thus the reason for us making this tough decision. However, we ...

Parks and Recreation Updates

On December 17, 2020, City Council adopted an Ordinance that will bring some changes to the following Departments/Divisions in the near future:

Seniors

The City of Abilene no longer offers senior transportation by way of Senior Services. Alternative transpo...

Cyber Crimes Arrests Abilene Man for Child Sex Crimes

The Abilene Police Department’s Cyber Crimes Unit served a search and arrest warrant and arrested 23-year-old Yu Zhong on Friday, January 15, 2021. Zhong was arrested for Second Degree Felony Possession of Child Pornography. Upon his arrest, he ...

Second Community Response Team Hits Abilene Streets

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police and Fire Departments along with the Betty Hardwick Center announce the deployment of Abilene’s second Community Response Team. CRT2 began operations on the streets of Abilene on December 28, 2020. The i...

APD Cyber Crimes Arrest Snyder Man

Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes arrested 46-year-old Jerry Bledsoe of Snyder for Third Degree Felony Possession/Promotion of Child Pornography. Detectives began an investigation and served a search and arrest warrant at a home in the 1400 Block of ...

APD Stepping Up DWI Patrol for the Holidays

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police Department wants drivers to know officers will step up DWI enforcement for the holidays. The purpose of stepping up patrol is to help reduce the number of DWI-related crashes, injuries, and fatalities through the...

Fatal Early Morning Crash

ABILENE, TX – The Abilene Police Department Traffic Division is investigating a crash that claimed the life of a 46-year-old Abilene man. The crash occurred at 5:10 a.m. on the morning of Monday, December 28, 2020, on Highway 36 near Blackburn R...

APD Arrests 3 Men for Child Sex Crimes

The Abilene Police Department Special Victim Unit detectives arrested two males following an investigation of a sexual assault of a child. 30-year-old Eugene Dwight Thomas, was charged with Second Degree Felony Sexual Assault of a Child. 27-year-old Javon...

Holiday Scams Increasing

– APD Fraud and Cyber Crimes would like to remind citizens to be aware of three common online scams that seem to increase during the holiday season. 

1. We commonly see many online scams where a text is sent to a phone to &...

Abilene Suspect Sentenced for 28 Years in Federal Prison and 15 Years Supervised Release

ABILENE, TX – On March 31, 2020, Detectives with the Abilene Police Department Cyber Crimes Division began an investigation into the alleged uploading of Child Pornography through a tip received by the National Center for Exploited and Missing C...

Detectives Seeking Possible Victims

ABILENE, TX – On December 4, 2020, 50-year-old masseuse Michael Walden was arrested and charged with Second Degree Felony Sexual Assault. The arrest stems from an incident where a female client alleged Walden assaulted her while receiving servic...

Abilene Man Arrested on Drug Charges

ABILENE, TX – Abilene Police Department Special Operation Division arrested 39-year-old Colby Smith of Abilene. Agents served a search warrant at a south Abilene motel at around 2 p.m. on Tuesday, December 8, 2020. Smith was contacted outside of...

Fatal Pedestrian Crash

ABILENE, TX – On Monday, November 16, 2020, at approximately 6:30 pm, the Abilene Police Department responded to a call for service of a major motor vehicle collision in the 3100 block of South 1st Street. The original calling party indicated th...

Multi-Vehicle Crash

ABILENE, TX – At approximately 5 p.m. on Sunday, November 1, 2020, police were called out to a multi-vehicle crash in the 2800 Block of East Highway 80. A Ford F-150 was traveling westbound by the driver, Gary Bradley (30 yoa) from Roscoe. A 2020 Toyota T...

Fatal Motorcycle Crash in North Abilene

ABILENE, TX – A 31-year-old Clyde man died in a motorcycle crash on Thursday, October 29, 2020. A motorcycle ridden by 31-year-old James Rowdy Stone was being pursued by an unmarked Law Enforcement vehicle through parts of north Abilene. The unmarked unit...

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, October 22,...

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 7:56 p.m....

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 injuries.

&am...

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 ...

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...

Street Projects for 1/11/2021

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N9
• Zone S16

Concrete Maintenance

• 1934 North 7th Street - Alley Apron
• 2107 North 8th Street - Alley Apron 
• 2234 North 8th Street - Alley Apron 
• 2225 North 8th Street - Alley Apron 
• 2030 N...

Street Projects for 1/4/2021

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N9
• Zone S16

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair

• Bob O Link Drive & Wenwood Drive
  • Patch to remove potholes
• Edgemont & Wenwood Drive
  • Patch to remove potholes
• 4621 Maple Street
  • Repair sinkhole
• Oak Street & Pecan Street
  • Patch to remove pot...

Street Projects for 12/28/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N9
• Zone S16

Partial/Full Depth Patch Repair

• Bob O Link Drive & Wenwood Drive
  • Patch to remove potholes
• Edgemont & Wenwood Drive
  • Patch to remove potholes
• 4621 Maple Street
  • Repair sinkhole
• Oak Street & Pecan Street
  • Patch to remove pot...

Street Projects for 12/21/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N9
• Zone S16

Crack Seal

• Glenwood Drive
  • Closed from South 23rd to Ivanhoe Lane
• South 13th Street
  • Closed from Matador Street to Santos Street
• South 20th Street
  • Closed from Sayles Boulevard to South Willis
• University Boulevard
  • Closed from Merchant...

Street Projects for 11/30/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N1
• Zone N7
• Zone S16

Crack Seal

• S. 7th Street
  • Closed from S. Pioneer to S. Treadaway Blvd

Repair Potholes

• Complaints Citywide

Street Projects for 11/23/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N1
• Zone S16
• Zone S17

Crack Seal

• S. 7th Street
  • Closed from S. Pioneer to S. Treadaway Blvd

Repair Potholes

• Complaints Citywide

Street Projects for 11/16/2020

Alley Maintenance

• Zone N1
• Zone N2
• Zone S16
• Zone S17

Crack Seal

• S. 7th Street
  • Closed from S. Pioneer to S. Treadaway Blvd
• S. Pioneer Drive
  • Closed from South 14th to South 1st

Repair Potholes

• Complaints Citywide

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.

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.