About Us
Established in 1901, the library strives to provide the widest possible range of materials for all segments of the community it serves. To provide residents with the resources and services needed to meet their informational, recreational, educational and cultural needs, the library is committed to acquiring, organizing and providing access to information and material. The mission of the Peabody Public Library is to serve all individuals and organizations as a pathway to learning, culture and entertainment.
According to the 2010 census, the library service area includes about 15,323 individuals living in Columbia city, Columbia Township and Thorncreek Township, its taxing district. As of January 1, 2013 the library holdings included 5,773 videos (VHS, DVD & Blu-ray), 3,594 music CDs, 2,129 audiobooks, 46,552 adults books, a combined 44,827 for children and young adults' books and 259 Juvenile and adult software. In 2012, the library circulated 223,280 items.
The Peabody Public Library endorses and is guided by the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights and Freedom to Read Statement that recognizes the individual’s right to unencumbered access and free exchange of information and ideas vital to an informed citizenry.
The Peabody Public Library is supported by property taxes from Columbia City, Columbia Township, and Thorncreek Township. This means that people living in these areas or people owning properties in these areas are entitled to a library card at no additional cost.
PPL Hours
Sunday: 1 PM - 5 PM*
Monday: 9 AM - 6 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM - 8 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM - 8 PM
Thursday: 9 AM - 8 PM
Friday: 9 AM - 6 PM
Saturday: 9 AM - 5 PM
*The library is closed on Sundays during the summer, from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Contact Us
Phone: (260) 244-5541
Fax: (260) 244-5653
Email: librarian@ppl.lib.in.us
Mail: P.O. Box 406
Columbia City, IN 46725
Find Us
We are located in Columbia City, Indiana, on Highway 205, just south of US 30 and the new Parkview Whitley hospital, at 1160 East Highway 205.
Board Meetings
The library Board of Trustees meets on the second Wednesday of every month at 7 PM. All meetings are open to the public, and minutes from previous meetings are available.