Are you looking for your next great read? We can help! Visit us in person, explore reading recommendations online, join an in-person or online book discussion, get recommendations on Facebook, tune in to our televised book club segments, and more. Get started here!

Sunday Nights on Facebook
Join us on Sunday nights at 8:30pm on Facebook for Currently Reading. Enjoy this hour during which book enthusiasts share favorite books and offer suggestion about what to read next. Find out about the books that have everyone talking.

Wednesday Mornings – Indy Now Book Club
The Library helps host a ‘book club’ on the Indy Now Morning Show with Ryan and Jillian on Fox59. Tune in at 10 a.m. every other Wednesday. Catch book recommendations and IndyPL program highlights from your own local librarians. Re-watch segments you have missed and see book lists of the books mentioned in each segment.

In-Person & Online Book Discussions
Do you love talking about books? Join one of our book discussions or book clubs available both in-person and online.

Online Reading Recommendations
NovelList and NovelList K-8 are online services that offer reading recommendations. Browse both fiction and nonfiction, read-alike suggestions, series information, reviews, and lists of recommended and award-winning books for adults, teens and kids. Learn how to start on this video tutorial. Also try Book Connections which includes a “find the right book for you” feature.

Would you prefer one-on-one help? Call or ask a Library staff member at any of our locations or call, text, or email ask-a- librarian.

Make a selection from one of the book lists below created by our staff of avid readers. You can also follow our staff’s most recently published lists on the library catalog home page. Don’t miss our If You Like… suggestions that cover all the favorite genres like science fiction, graphic novels, romance, and more. Finally, don’t miss What We’re Reading Teens and What We’re Reading Kids.

Horror Recommendations

stacks of old books and a skull

Reading horror allows us to confront our fears all in the comfort of our favorite reading spot. We get the rush of adrenaline without any real-life consequences. We can also take a break before turning the next page! Horror often explores the darker aspects of human nature, supplies unpredictable experiences, and keeps us on the edge of our seats. If you’re looking for spine-chilling reads, our staff recommendations can help you find just the right kind of horror for your mood and interests. Make a selection from one of our featured horror lists or browse all our staff horror recommendations. You can also learn about horror book award winners and browse a convenient list of horror authors linked directly to our catalog at If You Like Horror.

International Coffee Day – October 1

Grab a cup of your favorite java and celebrate International Coffee Day with these coffee adjacent cozy mysteries. Looking for more, find more recomendations at If You Like Cozy Mysteries.

Title - A Bean to Die forTitle - Flat White FatalityTitle - Grounds for MurderTitle - Fresh Brewed Murder

Jewish High Holy Days

Eul is the 12th Month of the Jewish calendar. As we approach the High Holidays; Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, this period leading up is an excellent time for reflection and learning. In preparation the Jewish Community Library is a wealth of resources to help individuals and families to prepare for these solemn Holidays.

The Jewish Community Library is part of the IndyPL Shared System. Our Library will send books to regular IndyPL cardholders if you request it and choose an IndyPL pick up location. We share items all year. We are also open for browsing or reference most Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn more about the Jewish Community Library.

Title - On Repentance and RepairTitle - Beginning AnewTitle - Days of AweTitle - The Amen Effect

Celebrate Black Poets Day – October 17

This list features African-American authors and paints a picture of their lived experiences, viewpoints, and thoughts. Classic, contemporary, and modern authors are all included to provide a balanced start to a reader’s journey through the realm of poetry. Expect to feel a flurry of emotion when reading any of these titles and learning the lessons therein. Poetry is an art form and has the ability to move even the most stoic of readers.

Title - Anywho, I Love YouTitle - Girls That Never DieTitle - The Hill We ClimbTitle - Black Girl, Call Home

Latinos in love

A list of romance novels that are either written by Latino/a authors or feature main characters with Latino background.

Title - West Side StoryTitle - Ramón and JulietaTitle - Sammy EspinozaTitle - A Lot Like Adiós

If You Liked the Movie Prey

Horror and thriller books show how a community comes together or falls apart trying to deal with the unknown. If you liked Prey, try one of these for your next horrifying thrill.

Title - Moon of the Crusted SnowTitle - The Marrow ThievesTitle - Night of the Living RezTitle - Man Made Monsters

LGBTQ+ Historical Romance

October is LGBTQ History Month. Travel back in time to celebrate Pride! Here are some historical romances to take you all over.

Title - The Emperor and the Endless PalaceTitle - DonTitle - A Botanical DaughterTitle - We Could Be So Good

Are you looking for reading recommendations for teens? We can help! Visit us in person or online to get great ideas for your next great read. For one-on-one help call or ask a Library staff member at any of our locations. You can also call, text, or email ask-a- librarian! Here are some more ideas to help you find what to read next.

  • Follow our staff’s most recently published book lists on the library catalog home page.
  • Don’t miss our If You Like… suggestions that cover all the favorite genres like science fiction, graphic novels, romance, and more.
  • Join us Sunday nights at 8:30 p.m. on Facebook for Currently Reading where book enthusiasts offer their suggestions.
  • Tune in every other Wednesday at 10 a.m. to the Indy Now Book Club with Ryan and Jillian on Fox59 for reading recommendations and IndyPL program highlights from your own local librarians.
  • You can also get reading recommendations online from NovelList or Book Connections. Read book reviews, see “read alike” lists, browse starred reviews, and more.

Make a selection from one of the book lists below created by our staff of avid readers whose reading experiences and tastes cover about any interest you can think of!

Teen Books Featuring Podcasts

Podcasts keep getting more popular! According to statistics by Infinite Dial, almost half of Americans 12 and older have listened to a podcast in the last month. From True Crime to Politics to Entertainment to History, almost any topic is fair game for podcasting. It’s only natural that this popularity would affect the world of books too! These teen books feature podcasts. The main character is the podcaster or a podcast is produced by someone else and affects the main character in some crucial way.

Title - A Long Stretch of Bad DaysTitle - How to Find A Missing GirlTitle - We Can Be HeroesTitle - I Hope You

Short Story Horror for Teens

Low on time but still looking for summer scares? Check out an anthology of horror short stories for teens.

Title - All These Sunken SoulsTitle - We Mostly Come Out at NightTitle - The Black Girl Survives in This OneTitle - Too Scared to Sleep

Teen Coming Out Stories

National Coming Out Day is October 11th. This day celebrates and acknowledges the often difficult and emotional process of “coming out of the closet” and endeavors to bring awareness and visibility to LGBTQ+ people. This book list features teens of many different orientations and their stories of coming out in the world. These experiences are sometimes joyful but sometimes the teenaged characters face a great deal of hardship in their journeys to being out in the world. Readers should exercise care with these titles if challenging coming out experiences would be difficult or triggering for them to read about.

Title - Imogen, ObviouslyTitle - I Wish You All the BestTitle - Juliet Takes A BreathTitle - More Happy Than Not

Contemporary LGBTQ+ Latine Books for Teens

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15) with this list featuring contemporary LGBTQ+ Latine teen characters and their stories. These books center Latine and LGBTQ+ themes, characters, and storylines with a focus on own-voices literature. Many, but not all, are romances or have a strong romantic subplot.

Title - The LesbianaTitle - Ophelia After AllTitle - Juliet Takes A BreathTitle - Clap When You Land

Spanish Teen Fiction

Discover a world of passion, intrigue, and adventure with our newest Spanish titles. From heart-pounding thrillers to heartwarming romances, we’ve got something for everyone. Immerse yourself in rich cultures and captivating stories. Don’t miss out on this literary fiesta! Come explore the magic of Spanish literature.

Title - El quarterback y yoTitle - Chaos & flameTitle - MestizaTitle - Lo poco que sabemos

Indigenous Speculative Fiction for Teens

Enjoy this list of Indigenous Speculative Fiction for teens featuring Alex Award winners! The Alex Awards (awarded yearly through the Young Adult Library Services Association of the American Library Association) are given to ten books written for adults that have special appeal to young adults, ages 12 through 18.

Title - The Marrow ThievesTitle - Funeral Songs for Dying GirlsTitle - Race to the SunTitle - The Interrogation of Ashala Wolf

Manga About Pursuing Your Passion

Are you a go-getter in pursuit of your goals? Perhaps you are looking for motivation to explore a secret passion or hobby? If you’re in need of a little inspiration, check out this selection of manga titles featuring tenacious characters pursuing their dreams. Each title is labeled with the intended audience.

Title - Kageki Shojo!Title - Show-ha Shoten!Title - Blue PeriodTitle - Keep your Hands Off Eizouken!

Teen Fiction without Romance

Sometimes I find myself just wanting to read some dramatic, adventurous teen fiction… without the characters trying to get all in each other’s business all the time. Here are some titles for if you can relate to that sentiment.

Title - Cold the Night, Fast the WolvesTitle - A Thousand Steps Into NightTitle - This Savage SongTitle - Vespertine

100 Books Before Graduation

Read 100 books before graduating from high school and receive prizes as you work toward your goal. Prizes will be awarded after reading 10, 25, 50, 75 and 100 books! Most importantly, students will expand their mind, vocabulary, critical thinking, and test scores! This program is for students in grades 7-12. Learn more about 100 Books Before Graduation and register.

Dungeon and Dragons Stories

This list is a look at some stories of dungeon divers, dungeon clubs, dungeon trainers and dungeons in general. Enjoy! See our full listing of Dugneon and Dragon upcoming programs.

Title - No Humans Allowed!Title - Warriors & WeaponsTitle - Lost in the Mushroom MazeTitle - The Dungeoneers

In-Person & Online Book Discussions for Teens

  • Event: Author Talk and Discussion: Tia Williams
  • Date & Time: Saturday, October 26, 11:00am
  • Location: Central Library
  • Description: Join us for an author talk and discussion featuring New York Times bestselling author, Tia Williams, who wrote “Seven Days in June,” “The Accidental Diva,” the It Chicks series, and “The Perfect Find,” which was adapted to a Netflix film starring Gabrielle Union.
  • No Registration Required.

Are you looking for reading recommendations for kids? We can help! Visit us in person or online to get ideas for great reads for kids. For one-on-one help call or ask a Library staff member at any of our locations. You can also call, text, or email ask-a- librarian!

This collection of book lists created by our staff can assist students with homework, help them find more books by their favorite authors, and aid parents in finding books for the youngest readers, among other things! We add new lists each month so returning readers can continue to find their next read! Find more reading recommendations for kids in our blog or enjoy storytime online.

You can also get reading recommendations online from NoveList K-8 Plus or Book Connections. Read book reviews, see “read alike” lists, browse starred reviews, and more.

The Wild Robot

The Wild Robot has been adapted into an animated feature film that is premiering in theatres this fall. Shipwrecked on a deserted island, a robot named Roz must learn to adapt to its new surroundings. Building relationships with the native animals, Roz soon develops a parental bond with an orphaned gosling. It stars Lupita Nyong’o as Roz, the title character, alongside an ensemble voice cast including Pedro Pascal, Kit Connor, Bill Nighy, Stephanie Hsu, Mark Hamill, and Catherine O’Hara. If you have read or watched The Wild Robot…try one of these!

Title - The Iron GiantTitle - The One and Only IvanTitle - A RoverTitle - A Wolf Called Wander

Spooky Graphic Novels for Kids

A small sampling of some spooky and fun graphic novels for kids just in time for Halloween.

Title - The Witch BoyTitle - GhostsTitle - The Okay WitchTitle - Camp Midnight

Halloween Storytime Online

Here are some fun stories to help calm typical Halloween fears—complete with laughter! You can listen to a variety of these stories right now. For instance, in Zombies Don’t Eat Veggies, Mo is a zombie who loves gardening and growing his own vegetables. He enjoys cooking and eating them, but his parents insist he needs to eat “finger” foods instead—though they don’t mean snacks! They firmly say, “zombies don’t eat veggies!” However, Mo, being a zombie who eats veggies, tries to convince his parents to give them a try. Enjoy Halloween storytime online and explore more books at the Library that turn Halloween fear into Halloween fun!

Books to Turn Halloween Fear into Halloween Fun!

Many small children don’t find Halloween fun at all! The masks, the jumping out surprises and all the ghosts, vampires & scary looking pumpkins can be too many surprises for little trick-or-treaters. Below are several stories that can help kids turn their Halloween fears into Halloween fun.

Title - Grumpy Monkey DonTitle - Dr. SeussTitle - Scaredy Squirrel Prepares for HalloweenTitle - Arthur

Middle Grade Horror Short Stories

Experience a fall fright with these middle grade horror short story anthologies.

Title - Tales to Keep You up at NightTitle - Hide and DonTitle - Once They See YouTitle - Stinetinglers

Diwali Storytime Online

In Binny’s Diwali by Thrity Umrigar, Binny’s class is learning about different holidays. It is Binny’s turn to share, and she is planning to talk about Diwali, a festival of lights Binny’s Hindu family celebrates. Binny talks about diyas and jalebis and pedas. Do you know what those are? Watch this video to listen to the story and learn about Diwali, just like the kids in Binny’s class. After watching the video you can learn more from Binny’s printable learning sheet, The Diwali Story. Enjoy more stories and activities at Diwali storytime online!

Friendship is Forever

What is friendship? Can you be friends with your brother, your dog, or even a monster? The books in each of these series listed below have the answers to those questions and more! All series are recommended for grades 1-3.

Title - Astrid & Apollo and the Starry CampoutTitle - King and Kayla and the Case of the Missing Dog TreatsTitle - Dragons and MarshmallowsTitle - Big Move to A Tiny House

Camping and Hiking Picture Books

Autumn is one of my favorite seasons to go on hikes and to camp! Perhaps you like to camp and explore nature during this time of year too? I particularly love crunching leaves with my feet! Explore the great outdoors with these wonderful picture books about camping and hiking.

Title - Into the OutdoorsTitle - Leo on A HikeTitle - Maisy Goes CampingTitle - Gather Round

Bears Bears Bears Bears

This is my fourth list featuring the humble grumbly family Ursidae. Please enjoy some of my favorite books featuring bears!

Title - Sweater WeatherTitle - How to Be HumanTitle - Fergus Barnaby Goes on VacationTitle - A Bear, A Bee, and A Honey Tree

Join Us for Storytime!

alt=" "
  • Event: Storytime at Glendale – Babies
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: Glendale Branch
  • Description: Babies up to 24 months and an adult are invited for stories, songs, fingerplays, and fun! Each session is followed by playtime with special toys designed just for babies.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Preschool Storytime at Southport
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: Southport Branch
  • Description: Preschoolers ages 3 – 5 and an adult are invited for an active class featuring stories, songs and rhymes that focus on early literacy skills and school preparedness.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Baby ArtsPlay
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: East Washington Branch
  • Description: Little ones will be engaged through stories and songs with sensory play and body movement activities! Help your 6 month-36 month child with their motor skills, emergent language, spatial awareness, and object permanence in this workshop with teaching artist Amauunet Ashé from Arts for Learning.
  • Register Here
  • Event: Fish Friends
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: Michigan Road Branch
  • Description: Explore life as a fish with Clint Kowalik in this preschool program. Children will hear fish stories, learn fascinating facts about fish and their habitats, and even get the chance to catch a fish! Go Fishin’ with Clint!
  • Register Here

Here are fun stories to help calm some typical Halloween fears….with laughing! You can listen to them right now. In Zombies Don’t Eat VeggiesMo is a zombie who loves to garden, growing his own vegetables. He also likes to cook and eat them. Mo’s parents insist that he needs to eat better for his zombie health. He needs to eat things like “finger” foods…and they don’t mean snacks! They tell Mo, “zombies don’t eat veggies!” but Mo IS a zombie and HE eats veggies. Listen along as Mo tries to convince his parents to give veggies a try. Enjoy Halloween storytime online!

Talk!

After listening to the story, talk about some of the things that happened in it.

  • What was Mo’s deepest, darkest secret?
  • What are some of the things Mo did NOT want to eat?
  • When Mo’s mom and dad tried his soup, what did they think of it?
  • What is the name of the dance Mo did?
  • What kinds of vegetables do you like?
  • Have you every tried something new that you thought you wouldn’t like…but discovered it was delicious?

Read!

Use your indyPL Library Card to check out books about the Halloween at any of our locations, or check out Halloween e-books and audiobooks from OverDrive Kids right to your device! If you have never used OverDrive before, you can learn how to use it for both e-books and audiobooks.

Click on the book covers below to listen to more Halloween video read aloud stories right now! Keep the laughs coming by listening to Goodnight Goon, a parody of the childhood classic Goodnight Moon in which a child says goodnight to all of the things in his bedroom. In this Halloween version, a young monster says goodnight to all the things in his tomb…hairy claws and jaws and a pot full of goo and a werewolf hollering, “boo!” It’s Halloween storytime online! Did you like these? You can find more stories at Free Video Read Alouds and enjoy even more themed reading and activity fun at IndyPL’s DIY Online Storytimes at Home.

title - The Berenstain Bears and the Spooky Old Treetitle - Georgietitle - Goodnight Goontitle - Blank Entrytitle - Hey, That's My Monster!title - How to Make Friends With A Ghosttitle - I Need My Monstertitle - Vlad the Radtitle - Zombies Don't Eat Veggiestitle - Blank Entrytitle - Blank Entry

Join Ms. Linda from Brightly Storytime and six different authors for video storytime to celebrate spooky season! Download a printable activities pack.

Books to Check Out with your IndyPL Library Card to Turn Halloween Fear into Halloween Fun!

List Cover Images - Books to Turn Halloween Fear into Halloween Fun!Many small children don’t find Halloween fun at all! The masks, the jumping out surprises and all the ghosts, vampires & scary looking pumpkins can be too many surprises for little trick-or-treaters. Here are several stories that can help kids manage their Halloween fears. If Arthur & Scaredy Squirrel can do it, so can your child!

Sing!

Enjoy this sing along from Laurie Berkner. Use her pattern to make a monster mask to sing and play along! “I’m the biggest monster that you’ve every seen! My eyes are yellow and my teeth are green!”

Write!

Find some crayons or makers to color a picture, practice writing the letters, or see if you can follow your way through a maze without getting stuck.

Play!

Take a walk and read a story as you go! We invite you to visit StoryWalk® in Ruckle Street Park at 3025 Ruckle Street. Stroll through the park and read a book displayed in mounted frames. Or Skip. Or gallop!

Try these outdoor games to play on Halloween from the National Wildlife Federation or these active Halloween games to play from Playworks. For fun in the kitchen try Babymouse’s Monstrous Monster Mash printable cupcakes recipe or these Magic Treehouse printable Halloween recipes.

Join Us for In-Person Storytime!

  • Event: Storytime at Glendale – Babies
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: Glendale Branch
  • Description: Babies up to 24 months and an adult are invited for stories, songs, fingerplays, and fun! Each session is followed by playtime with special toys designed just for babies.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Preschool Storytime at Southport
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: Southport Branch
  • Description: Preschoolers ages 3 – 5 and an adult are invited for an active class featuring stories, songs and rhymes that focus on early literacy skills and school preparedness.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Baby ArtsPlay
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: East Washington Branch
  • Description: Little ones will be engaged through stories and songs with sensory play and body movement activities! Help your 6 month-36 month child with their motor skills, emergent language, spatial awareness, and object permanence in this workshop with teaching artist Amauunet Ashé from Arts for Learning.
  • Register Here

Need Help?

Ask a Library staff member at any of our locations or call, text, or email Ask-a-Librarian. The Tinker Station helpline at (317) 275-4500 is also available. It is staffed by device experts who can answer questions about how to read, watch and listen on a PC, tablet or phone.

The freedom to choose or reject ideas, to read books of our choice…is the very bedrock of our free society.” ~Kurt Vonnegut

“Knowledge and education are some of the best equalizers as far as reducing the achievement gap and helping individuals reach their full potential…We need to be sure that our children have full access to knowledge, to education, with no restrictions on books and no restrictions on knowledge.” ~Indiana State Senator Fady Qaddoura

National Banned Books Week is an annual celebration of the freedom to read. It was launched in 1982 as a response to a growing number of challenges to books in schools, bookstores, and libraries.

Banned Books Week 2024

alt=" "

“I believe that censorship is the enemy of freedom. By banning books, we deny ourselves the opportunity to learn from the past and to envision a braver future. Books have the power to open minds and build bridges. This is why certain forces do not want the masses to engage with books. They fear progress and growth in new, bold directions. For this reason, Banned Books Week is vitally important. It is a celebration of our right to access varied voices and to engage with ideas that challenge and champion us. I am honored to be selected as honorary chair of Banned Book Week for this election year, and I stand with my fellow readers, fellow writers and fellow advocates around the world who refuse to let voices be silenced.”


2024 Banned Books Week Honorary Chair award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay.

From Selma to 13th and When They See Us, DuVernay’s work shines a light on the power of storytelling. Her film adaptations of frequently banned books, like A Wrinkle in Time, remind us why it’s so important to protect diverse voices.

The American Library Association’s Top 10 Most Challenged Books of 2023

Books have a long history of attracting challenges to their presence on library shelves. Banned Books Week takes place annually during the Fall, with the goals of raising public awareness of book censorship and attempts at censorship, and honoring Americans’ freedom to read materials of their own choosing, a constitutional right guaranteed by the First Amendment. The theme of Banned Books Week 2024 is “Freed Between the Lines.”

Indianapolis’s own Kurt Vonnegut, whose “Slaughterhouse-Five” novel was challenged, banned, and even burned in a North Dakota high school furnace in 1973, had much to say about censorship and attempts to censor books in schools and libraries, including:
“The freedom to choose or reject ideas, to read books of our choice…is the very bedrock of our free society.”

The following list contains challenged and/or banned books in two categories, the American Library Association’s Top 10 Most Challenged Books of 2023 and challenged and banned books written by Indiana authors including Kurt Vonnegut, John Green, and Phyllis Reynolds Naylor.

Title - Gender QueerTitle - All Boys ArenTitle - This Book Is GayTitle - The Perks of Being A WallflowerTitle - FlamerTitle - The Bluest EyeTitle - Me and Earl and the Dying GirlTitle - TricksTitle - LetTitle - Sold

Freedom to Read — Local Challenges

In support of the freedom to read, the Indianapolis Public Library seeks to share information about challenged books during banned books week. The books on this list have been challenged locally at the Indianapolis Public Library. We’ve included the reason for the challenges, and a brief description of the library’s response to the challenges. It includes a mix of books for children, teens and adults. Content warning: The descriptions in the list contain mature content.

IndyStar September 24, 2024: Hoosiers Challenged These 346 Books at Indiana Libraries Last Year. Is Your Favorite Listed?

Title - Can We Please Give the Police Department to the Grandmothers?Title - Bridge to TerabithiaTitle - The Little Red WolfTitle - Jacob

To kick off the week in 2023, we celebrated the Freedom to Read with John Green

We hosted #1 New York Times bestselling author and Indianapolis resident, John Green and former Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) educator and Indiana State Senator Andrea Hunley (District 46) on October 2 at Central Library. To a packed house, John and Andrea discussed the importance of protecting our freedom to read. We don’t have a recording of John’s talk but can share eight memorable highlights:

  • What we read shapes what we think. The best example of this in a book is Fahrenheit 451.

  • Libraries don’t exist for everyone to be comfortable with every book in the library. I have profound disagreements with some books in the library, and that’s ok.

  • When people tell you who they are, believe them.

  • There is power in the story. Structures of power try to take stories. Books that get banned are often the most needed. We have to fight to keep them in libraries.

  • I am heartened by all the people working on our problems. Look for the people trying to address these problems. Find hope in that.

  • Nothing can be truly neutral, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t work toward an array of voices. You can’t be neutral, but you can be inclusive.

  • If we are going to make progress together, we have to assume a position of a good faith conversation.

Green’s community discussion underscores the importance of unrestricted access to information and the power of literature to challenge conventional norms.

Green’s young adult (YA) novel Looking for Alaska is listed among the American Library Association’s most banned books in 2022, and it has been referenced in nationwide discussions on book banning and reshelving in schools and public libraries. His YA novel, The Fault In Our Stars, has also been challenged and pulled from the shelves of school library collections and public libraries.

At The Indianapolis Public Library, Green’s titles are on the shelf in the Teen collection, circulating and in demand. Listen to The Indianapolis Public Library’s CEO, Gregory A. Hill, Sr., share The Library’s role in protecting a community’s freedom to read.

“When we ban books, we’re closing readers off to people, places, and perspectives. But when we stand up for stories, we unleash the power that lies inside every book. We liberate the array of voices that need to be heard and the scenes that need to be seen.” The American Library Association

WFYI Presents a Documentary: Read or Restrict

alt=" "

Conservative activists and parents have put pressure on local schools and library boards to remove certain books from their collections. Many of the targeted titles feature LGBTQ and other minority characters, beloved by young adult readers who want to see themselves reflected in literature. Critics of these titles label them as obscene or inappropriate for kids. But who gets to decide? 

The film includes interviews with:

  • Jason Aukerman, Center for Ray Bradbury Studies
  • Micah Beckwith, Life Church & former Hamilton County Library board member
  • Jonathan Friedman, PEN America
  • Leah Johnson, Young Adult novelist and owner of Loudmouth Books
  • Diane Rogers, Indiana Library Federation
  • Jim Tomes, Indiana Senator

Watch the documentary Read or Restrict. Aired March 12, 2023.

Dig Deeper

If you want to dig deeper about our mission as a library you can read the Library Bill of Rights stating the rights of library users to intellectual freedom and the role public libraries play to support those rights. For more information about banned and challenged books, visit ala.org/bbooks. You might also find interesting The Freedom to Read Statement, which explains why the freedom to read is essential to our democracy. To learn more, browse our book list How Censorship Impacts the First Amendment. IndyPL’s own Materials Selection Policy is also available.

The Library is thrilled to help host a book club on the Indy Now Morning Show with Ryan and Jillian on Fox59. Tune in at 10 a.m. every other Wednesday to catch book recommendations and IndyPL program highlights from your local librarians. Enjoy the most recent segment or browse the listing of past shows that highlight a variety of reading suggestions. You can also use the featured books links for easy borrowing.

Current Segment

October 9
Meet an Author, Be an Author

(Jill Edwards)


2024

September 11
Fall Programs for Teens
(Kirsten Weaver)

August 27
Small Business Series
(Rachel Wood, Ryan Donnelly)

August 13
Homeschool Resources
(Devery North)

July 31
Legal Resources
(Ryan Donnelly)

July 3
Quick Reads Collection
(Deb Lambert)

June 5
Juneteenth Bookfest
(Bryanna Barnes)

May 8
Meet Your Neighbor Programming Series and Travel-themed Books
(Keshia McEntire)

April 24
Dia del Niño Be My Neighbor Day
(Jessica Neeb-Smith)

March 27
Patent and Trademark Resources
(Ryan Donnelly)

March 13
Books About Self-love and the Center for Black Literature & Culture Programs (Bryanna Barnes)

February 28
Joyful Books by Black Authors
(Keshia McEntire and Alton Parks)

February 14
Meet The Artists
(Jaquelyn Green)

January 17
Book Clubs
(Kris Gould, Keshia McEntire)

January 3
Books to Support New Years Resolutions
(Rachel Wood)

Indy Now Book Club Archive

2023

December 20
Graphic Novels and Arts Programs (Kelsey Abernathy)

December 7
Encyclopedia of Indianapolis
(Natasha Hollenbach and Jyoti Verderame)

November 8
Fall Fest
(Jacquelyn Green)

October 25
Books for Chess Players
(Jordan Hunt, Charlie Cain)

September 27
Indy Cinema Series
(Jason Davis)

August 30
Small Business Series
(Alexandra Loewen)

August 16
Digital Creativity Work Stations
(Dawn Hawkins and Stephanie Flood)

August 2
Disability Representation
(Keshia McEntire)

July 5
Foraging Outside
(Anika Williams)

June 21
More Than a Place Podcast
(Sakura Fuqua)

June 7
Summer Reading Program
(Emily Thomas)

April 10
Books About Building Community and the New Glendale Branch
(Amy Buell)

April 12
Sci-Fi Books
(Kirsten Weaver)
Featured Books: Sci-Fi Books

March 29
Dia del Nino
(Emily Thomas)
Featured Books: Dia del Nino

March 15
Making a Positive Difference in the Community
(Leah Kim)
Featured BooksBooks for Hoosiers Hoping to Make a Difference

February 15
Romance Novels for Valentines Day
(Kirsten Weaver)
Featured BooksRomance Novels for Valentines Day

February 15
Romance Novels for Valentines Day
(Kirsten Weaver)
Featured BooksRomance Novels for Valentines Day

February 1
Meet the Artists
(Kimberly Brown)

January 18
Biographies and Memoirs
(Liz Schoettle)
Featured BooksBiographies & Memoirs

January 4
Computer and Technology Classes and Resources
(Marianne Mackenzie & Charlie Cain)
Featured BooksDigital Skills for the New Year

2022

December 21
Holiday Book Recommendations for Families (Devery North)
Devery’s segment starts at 22:20.
Featured BooksCelebrate the Holidays Through Books

December 7
Fall Fest & Slammin’ Rhymes Challenge XVI (Kim Ewers)
Featured BooksFall Fest & Slammin’ Rhymes

October 27
Center for Black Literature & Culture 5th Anniversary (Amira Malcom)
Featured BooksCBLC’s Fifth Anniversary

October 20

Book Recommendations (Rachel Wood)

September 28
Introduction to Kadir Nelson (Shael Weidenbach)
Featured BooksKadir Nelson

August 31
Let’s Get Down to Business (Alexandra Loewen)
Featured BooksBooks About Business

August 17
Book Clubs Available at the Indianapolis Public Library (Sakura Fuqua) We offer a variety of in-person and online book discussions for adults, teens & kids.
Learn more!

August 3
Good Reads About Money (Rachel Nevada Wood)
Featured BooksGood Reads About Money

July 20 Books with Indiana Ties (Shelby Graam-Pavan)
Featured BooksBooks with Indiana Ties

July 6 Pick Up a New Hobby (Chris Hogsett)
Featured BooksPick Up a New Hobby

June 22 Summer Love Reading Recommendations (Keshia McEntire)
Featured BooksSummer Romance

June 8 Summer Reads: Pride Month (Liz Schoettle)
Featured BooksPride Reads

May 25
Adult Summer Reading Sports Reads (Rachel Wood)
Featured BooksSports Reads

May 1
Adult Summer Reading Program (Leah Kim)
Featured BooksBooks for Busy People

April 27
Graphic Novels (Chris Hogsett)
Featured Books
Graphic Novels for Kids

April 13
Spring Reads: Dystopian Fiction (Kirsten Weaver)
Featured Books
Dystopian Reads

March 31
Local Black Authors (Keshia McEntire)
Featured BooksLocal Black Authors

March 16
Music Related (Rachel Wood)
Featured BooksMusic-Related Reads

March 2
True Crime (Shelby Graam)
Featured BooksTrue Crime and Thrillers

February 16
Love Stories for February (Kirsten Weaver)
Featured BooksYA Love Stories

February 2
Book Club Kick Off (Rachel Wood)
Featured Books: Books by Black Authors

Find a book discussion near you!

  • Event: Adult Book Discussion at West Indianapolis
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 5:00pm
  • Location: West Indianapolis Branch
  • Description: We will be discussing “The Other Einstein” by Marie Benedict. Copies of this month’s book can be picked up from the West Indianapolis Branch. Adults are invited to this free monthly book discussion program. We (usually) meet on the second Monday of the month.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Adult Book Discussion at Fort Ben
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 6:30pm
  • Location: Fort Ben Branch
  • Description: Octavia Butler’s “Parable of the Sower” follows Lauren Olamina as she flees Southern California’s ecological and societal collapse to Northern California.
  • No Registration Required.

In honor of Veteran’s Day, browse Veterans Day reading recommendations from a variety of sources. A wide ranging number of books written by scholars, historians, and observers about wars, military strategy, and the experiences of both active duty and veteran service members are classic, best-selling, and highly awarded. Journalists embed with troops and report from all aspects of war from the military command to troop units on the ground.

Sometimes the authors of the recommended books listed are people outside military service, but more often the authors are fellow service members. What these titles share is the distinction of being recommended by service members. These are the titles they suggest to each other, as well as to those of who have not served.

By choosing one of the following lists of recommendations you can explore title choices thoroughly and read in-depth reviews written by service members. A selection of these recommendations are listed below linked to the catalog for easy check out.

Veterans Day Reading Recommendations

Are you a veteran? Do you have a story to share?

The Library of Congress invites you to participate in the Veterans History Project. The Veterans History Project collects, preserves, and makes accessible the personal accounts of American war veterans so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the realities of war.

Sharing Veteran’s Day with Children

Photo Soldier Dad Reading to Child

Veterans Day is an opportune time to share what military service is with young children. Check out a book from Stories for Kids about Active Duty Soldiers, Veterans, and Their Families for picture book and early reading tributes that illuminate the experiences of active duty soldiers, veterans, and their families. Titles range from community observances like Veteran’s Day to traditions celebrated in families to honor their own active duty or Veteran service members to the experiences of children whose parents serve.

Take at look at these recommended titles selected by the Military Times and the National Medal of Honor Museum. Each has selected books both old and new, fiction and non-fiction that cover history, memoir, women in combat, racism, rules of war, and more. What better way to honor a service member than to read their story, in their own words.

Title - Blaze of LightTitle - Summoned at MidnightTitle - War FlowerTitle - Race of AcesTitle - Beyond the CallTitle - You Are Worth ItTitle - The Warrior CodeTitle - Red PlatoonTitle - Black Hawk DownTitle - The New Rules of WarTitle - Soldier, Sailor, Frogman, Spy, Airman, Gangster, Kill or DieTitle - Code Name: Lise

Here are some of our favorite books to share with kids in the days leading up to Thanksgiving. You and your child can learn about the history of Thanksgiving and learn about Thanksgiving from an American Indian perspective. Additionally, you can read prayers and songs of gratitude from different religious and cultural traditions, learn to draw iconic Thanksgiving symbols, or laugh out loud at what Thanksgiving dinner might be like for monsters. Garlic is OK for a recipe ingredient, but not eyeballs! Laugh again when you find out what happens when someone (everyone!) forgets to bring their dish to Thanksgiving dinner! Enjoy Thanksgiving storytime online!

Watch the video read aloud below, Turkey Trouble, by Wendi Silvano. Turkey is in trouble! It’s almost Thanksgiving… and he’s the main course! But Turkey has an idea–what if he doesn’t LOOK like a turkey? What if he looks like another animal instead? After many funny attempts, Turkey comes up with the perfect disguise to make this Thanksgiving the best ever!

Talk!

After listening to the story, talk about some of the things that happened in it.

  • Why is this book called “Turkey Trouble”?
  • What do you think it would be like to be a turkey before Thanksgiving?
  • Why did Turkey keep changing his disguises?
  • Did Turkey stay out of trouble?
  • Keep your eyes peeled during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade to see if you can spot a favorite book character! Some character balloons we have seen in the past are Curious George, Snoopy, Paddington Bear & Greg from Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

Read!

Use your indyPL Library Card to check out books about Thanksgiving at any of our locations, or check out Thanksgiving e-books and audiobooks from OverDrive Kids right to your device! If you have never used OverDrive before, you can learn how to use it for both e-books and audiobooks.

Click on one of the book covers below to listen to more Thanksgiving video read aloud stories right now! It’s Thanksgiving storytime online! Did you like these? You can find more stories at Free Video Read Alouds and enjoy even more themed reading and activity fun at IndyPL’s DIY Online Storytimes at Home.

title - Balloons Over Broadwaytitle - Don't Let Auntie Mabel Bless the Tabletitle - Thanksgiving Is for Giving Thankstitle - Turkey Trouble

Thanksgiving Books to Check Out With Your IndyPL Library Card

Consider supplementing your Thanksgiving reading with these great books recommended by AICL (American Indians in Children’s Literature).

Title - Bowwow PowwowTitle - Awâsis and the World-famous BannockTitle - First LaughTitle - Nimoshom and His Bus

Enjoy these favorite and new Thanksgiving picture books that cover the early history to turkey dinner to the gratitude of what it is to celebrate “plenty.” Also laugh out loud at some silly stories starring picture book friends – even vampires celebrate Fangsgiving!

Title - GrandmaTitle - Around the Table That Grandad BuiltTitle - KeepunumukTitle - Bad Kitty Does Not Like Thanksgiving

Sing!

Enjoy this song together about being thankful from Raffi. Thanks for the sun in the sky…thanks for the clouds so high!

Play!

Take a walk and read a story as you go! We invite you to visit StoryWalk® in Ruckle Street Park at 3025 Ruckle Street. Stroll through the park and read a book displayed in mounted frames. Try Skiping. Can you gallop! Or do the turkey gobble with Elmo and Abby!

Join Us for In-Person Storytime!

  • Event: Storytime at Glendale – Babies
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: Glendale Branch
  • Description: Babies up to 24 months and an adult are invited for stories, songs, fingerplays, and fun! Each session is followed by playtime with special toys designed just for babies.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Preschool Storytime at Southport
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: Southport Branch
  • Description: Preschoolers ages 3 – 5 and an adult are invited for an active class featuring stories, songs and rhymes that focus on early literacy skills and school preparedness.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Baby ArtsPlay
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: East Washington Branch
  • Description: Little ones will be engaged through stories and songs with sensory play and body movement activities! Help your 6 month-36 month child with their motor skills, emergent language, spatial awareness, and object permanence in this workshop with teaching artist Amauunet Ashé from Arts for Learning.
  • Register Here

Need Help?

Ask a Library staff member at any of our locations or call, text, or email Ask-a-Librarian. The Tinker Station helpline at (317) 275-4500 is also available. It is staffed by device experts who can answer questions about how to read, watch and listen on a PC, tablet or phone.

Many American families gather for Thanksgiving, a day to share food, family memories, and gratitude for both. The arrival of early settlers and the colonization of North America is part of our shared history as Americans. It is important to learn and remember the full history of colonization and the reality that it included centuries of genocide, the theft of land, and oppression. As a result, Indigenous Peoples recognize Thanksgiving as a day of mourning. It is a time to remember ancestral history as well as a day to acknowledge and protest the racism and oppression which they continue to experience today. The following resources will help you learn more about Indigenous Peoples and Thanksgiving.

National Day of Mourning

Since 1970 there has been a gathering at the Plymouth rock historic site in Massachusetts on Thanksgiving Day to commemorate the National Day of Mourning. The United American Indians of New England will host the 54th Annual National Day of Mourning on November 23, 2023. Watch their website for livestreaming information on that day.

In this video from the National Museum of the American Indian, Paul Chaat Smith (Comanche) co-curator of the exhibit Americans, looks at why the Thanksgiving story is so important to the United States’ image of itself as a nation. Watch it to gain a better understanding of Indigenous Peoples and Thanksgiving.

Read books by Indigenous authors.

In our collection, two notable titles about Thanksgiving are, for adults, This Land Is Their Land: The Wampanoag Indians, Plymouth Colony, and the Troubled History of Thanksgiving by David J. Silverman, and for children1621: A New Look at Thanksgiving by Margaret M. Bruchac (Abenaki) and Catherine Grace O’Neill. (For more resources for kids see Talking to Kids About Thanksgiving.)

There have been a number of books published by Indigenous authors to share Indigenous perspective for both adults and children in a variety of topics. First Nations publishes a list of essential reading for anyone interested in learning about the Native American experience. To help you find these books in our collection, see our blog post Finding Books by Indigenous Authors.

Many of us here – as Native Americans, avid readers, activists for improving Native American economies and communities, and as direct participants in the Native American experience – believe that we are uniquely positioned to suggest this reading list,” said First Nations President & CEO Michael Roberts. “We attempted to include many facets of the Native American experience, as well as books and research reports that would be of interest to a broad variety of readers.

Take a deeper dive in our collection and online.

Learn about the people whose land you live on.

Native Land is an interesting interactive map. Enter your address and get an answer to “You are on the land of…” The map will tell you the name of the Indigenous People who once lived where you live. Besides curiosity, why would a person want to know this? The creators of the map hope to encourage discussion and increase awareness about Indigenous history and the diverse cultures of Native People. There is a teacher’s guide to go with the map which is also helpful.

Are you looking for ways to share with children the importance of family, community, and gratitude? Or trying to make sure talking to kids about Thanksgiving includes giving them an age appropriate introduction to history? A wonderful book to share is Keepunumuk Weeãachumun’s Thanksgiving Story by Danielle Greendeer (Mashpee Wampanoag) and Tony Perry (Chickasaw). Learn the story of Weeãachumun, who asked local Native Americans to show the newcomers how to grow food.

Watch this video to hear Alexis Bunten from the Bioneers Indigeneity Program. She shares learning activities about sharing, valuing nature, and animal behavior. Alexis reads the story aloud, and then leads a discussion about talking to kids about Thanksgiving. A very helpful resource guide is available with all kinds of fun ideas to try at home.

You might also try If You Lived During the Plimoth Thanksgiving by Chris Newell (citizen of Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township). It comes highly recommended by American Indians in Children’s Literature. This site provides critical analysis of Indigenous peoples in children’s and young adult books. Read their detailed review to discover why the book is so highly regarded. For example, the analysis includes this passage from If You Lived During the Plimoth Thanksgiving: “The story of the Mayflower landing is different depending on whether the storyteller viewed the events from the boat or from the shore.”

Very young listeners might also enjoy Online Storytime: Thanksgiving to hear some of our favorite books to share in the days leading up to Thanksgiving. Online Storytime will include experiences to talk, read, sing, write, and play. This makes fun stories and activities about Thanksgiving include important early learning skills!

Make a selection from one of these lists to enjoy a rich variety of stories to add to your annual Thanksgiving traditions.

Prayer Books for Kids – The Many Ways People Say “Thank You”

Here is a selection of prayers and stories for children to explore the prayer traditions in their own family or those of their friends and neighbors. After sharing one, talk about the ways the characters in the story prayed, or talked about the things they felt thankful for. How was it the same as how you talk about gratitude in your home? How was it different?

Title - A Family PrayerTitle - The Masjid Kamal LovesTitle - Salat in SecretTitle - A World of PraiseTitle - Standing in the Need of PrayerTitle - My Heart Fills With HappinessTitle - Sammy SpiderTitle - Thanku

Books by Indigenous Authors for Young Children

Learning about other cultures helps young children develop a better sense of themselves and the world around them. The books in this list are written by Indigenous authors, providing a look inside the traditions and values of their communities.

Title - First LaughTitle - Fry BreadTitle - We Are Water ProtectorsTitle - Bowwow PowwowTitle - KamikTitle - Zoe and the FawnTitle - You Hold Me upTitle - Thunder Boy Jr

Picture Books by Native Authors, Recommended by American Indians in Children’s Literature (AICL)

Add to your Thanksgiving favorites with these great books recommended by American Indians in Children’s Literature.

Title - Bowwow PowwowTitle - Awâsis and the World-famous BannockTitle - First LaughTitle - Nimoshom and His BusTitle - ChickadeeTitle - KunuTitle - Whale SnowTitle - Fatty Legs

Learn more about some of our most frequently asked questions about voting and elections. For more information visit the Indiana State Government Voter Information Portal. Or visit the Marion County Voter Portal for local information.

2024 Election Dates and Deadlines

  • Monday, October 7, 2024
    Voter Registration Deadline (online, by mail, and in-person)
    Find out how to register to vote in Indiana.
    On this site you can confirm your voter registration status, start or update your voter registration, learn how to register to vote by mail or in-person, or download the National Voter Registration Form in English and multiple additional languages.

  • Tuesday, October 8, 2024
    Early Voting Begins at the Indianapolis City-County Building
    200 E. Washing St., W122
    Indianaplis, IN 46204

  • Thursday, October 24, 2024
    Deadline to Request an Absentee Ballot
    Find out how to apply for an absentee ballot.

  • Saturday, October 26, 2024
    Satellite Site Voting Begins
    Find an early voting location.

  • Monday, November 4, 2024
    Early Voting Ends

  • Tuesday, November 5, 2024
    Election Day
    Find a convenient IndyVOTES Center.
    All registered Marion County voters can vote at any Vote Center on Election Day.

Remember to bring ID

You must have your valid photo ID issued by the state of Indiana or the federal government with you. The Supreme Court upheld the requirement of an Indiana State ID to vote. Public Law 109-2005 requires Indiana residents to present a government-issued photo ID.

This law requires your photo ID to meet four criteria to be acceptable for voting purposes. See the four requirements your photo ID must include.

Where can I get an ID?

VoteRiders provides 100% free voter assistance. Get help:

  • obtaining documents (birth certificates, change of name records, etc.)
  • arranging rides to and from ID–issuing offices
  • providing copies of ID for those eligible to vote by mail

Contact by phone 844-338-8743.

Frequently Asked Questions

Voting Basics

Why should I vote?

The National Geographic Society provides good information on why it is important that everyone exercise their right to vote

What are my rights as a voter?

The Indiana Voters Bill of Rights available in English and Spanish.

I am a college student, what should I know about voting?

The Student Voting Guide specifically helps students better understand how to vote.

What is the Electoral College and how does it work?

For an explanation of how the college works, including statistics and historical counts, visit the National Archives and Records Administration.

How can I find out who my current government representatives are?

Your current elected officials can be accessed at the Voter Information Portal. You can click on the yellow icon “Find Elected Officials” to pull up a map and enter your address. Then you can choose Federal, State, County, Township, or school officials.

You may also view maps of your districts at Indiana Election Division – Statistics and Maps. If you have questions about your districts, you can call the Marion County Board of Voter Registrationat 317-327-5042.

Preparing to Vote

How can I turn in my registration form?

Registration forms may be mailed to or dropped off at the Marion County Board of Voter Registration. According to the Indiana Secretary of State’s Election Division, to vote in a primary or general election, you must register at least twenty-nine (29) days before that election. Additionally, a mail-in voter registration application must be postmarked at least twenty-nine (29) days in advance of the election.

Can I (avoid long waits and) vote early?

All registered Indiana voters are eligible to vote early in-person. See more information on how to vote early in Indiana.

Where is my polling place?

Find out where to vote by choosing “Find Your Polling Place” on the Voter Information Portal.

What if I can’t vote on Election Day?

For people who cannot travel to their polling place on Election Day, an absentee ballot can be used. To see if you are eligible to vote absentee, or to download an online application, go to the Marion County Election Voter Information Portal Absentee Forms. Also, you may call the Election Board at 317-327-8683 to have a form mailed to you. Early voters, military and overseas voters, and a travelling board for sick, injured or disabled voters and their caregivers may all be eligible for absentee voting.

Know the Candidates

Who are the candidates running for office?

To find a list of candidates on the ballot that you will be voting for, you can access them at the Voter Information Portal. Click on the yellow icon “Who’s on the Ballot?” You will need to put in your name and your birthdate as well as the county where you are registered to vote. You will find a list of the candidates who currently on the ballot.

Where can I find information about the candidates?

To find out more about each candidate you can easily find them online by searching their names on Google. Remember to consider who is providing the information on any site about a candidate and consider if the site may be biased. One reliable site is called Ballot Ready presented by the National Science Foundation, the Knight Foundation, and the University of Chicago Institute of Politics.

Where can I check the facts I find?

There are several good sites for fact checking – two easy-to-use options are Fact Check and Politifact. Another interesting one is NewsGuard, which works as a Chrome browser extension.

Election Day

What if I need a ride to my polling place to vote?

The Marion County Democratic, Libertarian, and Republican parties provide transportation to the polls to residents of Marion County. When calling, first give your name, then provide your address, and finally, include your telephone number.

Libertarian Party of Marion County
8063 Madison Avenue #1003
Indianapolis, IN 46227 (317) 985-7985

Marion County Democratic Party
156 East Market Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (317) 377-4340

Marion County Republican Party
101 West Ohio Street Suite 2200
Indianapolis, IN 46204 (317) 964-5050

Where can I find election results?

Official Marion County election results are available from the Voter Information Portal. Click on “Election Night Results” or on “Historical Election Results.”. Official results from current and past elections throughout the state of Indiana are provided by the Election Division of the Indiana Secretary of State’s office.

The Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives also provides Election Statistics from 1920 to 2014.

Reading Recommendations from IndyPL Staff

VOTING MATTERS

Leaders at the local and national level play a role in shaping our local communities, and your vote is responsible for selecting those leaders. Former Candidate for Indiana State Senate, Belinda Drake, will speak at the East 38th St. Branch on Tuesday, October 11th, at 5:30 pm, about the importance of voting and getting involved to make a difference. Here is a selection of resources about voting rights and how our votes matter.

Title - The Voting Rights WarTitle - It Occurs to Me That I Am AmericaTitle - The Susan B. Anthony WomenTitle - We

The Voting Rights Act of 1965

On August 6, 1965, US President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965 into law. This federal legislation aimed “to enforce the fifteenth amendment to the Constitution” and to eliminate discriminatory practices and arbitrary barriers to voting imposed at the state and local level. Explore this cross-generational list of books, graphic novels and DVDs to learn more about the history and the importance of this law in the 20th and 21st centuries.

Title - The March on WashingtonTitle - Freedom Summer for Young PeopleTitle - Bending Toward JusticeTitle - Eyes on the Prize

Politics, Public Service, Activism and the Press

The headliners, history makers, and their influence on culture and politics.

Title - Confidence ManTitle - Thank You for your ServitudeTitle - The ForerunnerTitle - Allow Me to Retort

Elections and Voting for Kids – It’s a Big Deal!

Choose a book or two from this list to learn about the United States election process, who can vote, and the history of how each has developed over the last 200+ years. Find out the answers to some puzzling FAQs: What’s a ballot? What is a poll? What does suffrage mean? Why couldn’t Black people vote? Why couldn’t women vote? You can read a general history or focus on one issue, event, or person who made a difference.

Title - Presidential Elections and Other Cool FactsTitle - Your Voice, your VoteTitle - The WalkTitle - Black Voter Suppression

" "

Choose one of these outstanding books by authors whose writing is made unique and compelling by the ancestry they trace to Spain, Mexico, Central America, South American or other Spanish-speaking country in the Caribbean. Read one, listen to one, suggest one for your book club, or read one to your child or class!

Explore more ways you can visit the Library or use your library card to join in the celebration of Hispanic history and culture during Hispanic Heritage Month.

1. Download and stream books by Hispanic and Latino authors.

Choose e-booksaudiobooksmusicmovies, or e-comics on Hoopla from their Hispanic Heritage Month Collection. Hoopla is one of our digital borrowing platforms. It includes materials for all ages. You can borrow 10 Items each month from Hoopla using your IndyPL Library card. If you have never borrowed from Hoopla before, Hoopla directions are available as well as a Hoopla video tutorial.

You can also stream movies from Kanopy’s Hispanic American Collection. Kanopy is one of our streaming movie platforms. It has movies and TV shows for all ages. You can borrow 20 Items each month from Kanopy using your IndyPL Library card. If you have never borrowed from Kanopy before review these Kanopy directions or watch a Kanopy video tutorial.

Need help? Ask a Library staff member at any of our locations or call, text or email Ask-a-Librarian. Additionally, the Tinker Station helpline at (317) 275-4500 is also available. It is staffed by device experts who can answer questions about how to read, watch and listen on a PC, tablet or phone.

2. Check out a book by a Hispanic or Latino author.

3. Get reading recommendations from IndyPL staff.

For Adults:

For Kids:

For Teens:

4. Read an award winner.

Find many books to share with children in our collection of Pura Belpre Medal winners. This medal is awarded each year for both writing and illustration to recognize literature that best celebrates the Latino cultural experience. Try one of the winners:

5. Use your IndyPL Library card to login to Novelist Plus.

Novelist Plus makes finding books by Latine authors easier. Browse recommendations, read-alikes, series lists, reviews, and lists of award-winning books all by latine authors on Novelist. Select the option to “Check Availability” to see if a book is available to borrow from IndyPL. Click on a book cover to read a brief description. See star ratings,and get ideas for read alikes.

6. Subscribe to a Spanish newsletter from NextReads.

Subscribe to NextReads to receive reading recommendation in your inbox monthly for help finding books in Spanish by Hispanic and Latino authors. Book suggestions are linked to our catalog for easy requesting. It’s FREE! See a sample issue and Subscribe to NextReads!

Beginning September 15th and continuing through the middle of October, it is Hispanic Heritage Month. Here are several ways you can visit the Library or use your library card to join in the celebration of Hispanic history and culture!

Read books by Hispanic and Latino authors.

alt=" "

See our to guide Finding books by Hispanic and Latino Authors. Enjoy this convenient clickable list of authors linked directly to our catalog. Easily place requests or check out e-books or audiobooks. Find award books, check out an e-book or downloadable audiobook, and find reading recommendations from our staff.

Choose a book written by an author whose writing is made unique and compelling by the ancestry they trace to Spain, Mexico, Central America, South American or other Spanish-speaking countries in the Caribbean. Read one, listen to one, suggest one for your book club, or read one to your child or class!

Explore Hispanic history and culture.

Use your Library card to explore the history and culture of Latinos. Explore hundreds of primary source documents like maps, images, audio clips, interviews, music, and more at The Latino American Experience.

Receive an email newsletter featuring popular Spanish titles.

Receive reading recommendations of recently added Spanish materials. Subscribe to our monthly Spanish email newsletter or view the most recent issue.

Stream a movie with your Library card.

You can also stream movies from Kanopy’s Hispanic American Collection. Kanopy is a streaming movie platform. It has movies and TV shows for all ages. You can borrow 20 Items each month from Kanopy using your IndyPL Library card. If you have never borrowed from Kanopy before here are some directions and a video tutorial.

Begin learning or practice Spanish on your phone, tablet, or computer.

You can take a self-paced lesson in Mango anytime, anywhere. Each lesson combines real scenarios and audio from native speakers with simple, clear instructions. Fun, interactive courses help you practice vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar. Additional segments share an appreciation for cultural nuance and real-world application. Watch this video tutorial or learn more about Mango.

Here are tips to help you find your next read as well as a convenient clickable list of authors linked directly to our catalog for placing requests or checking out e-books or audiobooks. See also If You Like Amish and Mennonite Fiction.

1. Find award winning Christian fiction.

The Christy awards are presented annually to recognize novels of excellence written from a Christian worldview. See Christy Award winners in our collection here.

2. Borrow e-books or downloadable audiobooks.

Browse our OverDrive Christian Fiction Collection of e-books and downloadable audiobooks you can borrow with your IndyPL library card.

3. Get reading recommendations from IndyPL staff.

4. Make a selection from one of these Christian fiction authors.

5. Use your IndyPL Library card to login to Novelist Plus.

On Novelist Plus you’ll find reading recommendations, read-alikes, series lists, reviews, and lists of award-winning historical romance books. Once you login with your IndyPL library card, Once you login with your IndyPL library card, choose the “Christian fiction” category from the genre list on the left. Click on a book to read a brief description or see a star rating. Click “Check Availability” to see if the book is available to borrow from IndyPL.

6. Subscribe to a Christian fiction email newsletter.

Subscribe to NextReads to receive romance reading recommendation in your inbox monthly. Book suggestions are linked to our catalog for easy requesting. It’s FREE! See a Christian fiction sample issue. Subscribe to NextReads!

7. Find a book discussion near you!

You are invited to join in one of our many in-person or online book discussions that take place several times each month. In our book discussion groups we read and talk about both fiction and non-fiction books. We express our opinions (both likes and dislikes!) with other avid readers in the city.

  • Event: Adult Book Discussion at West Indianapolis
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 5:00pm
  • Location: West Indianapolis Branch
  • Description: We will be discussing “The Other Einstein” by Marie Benedict. Copies of this month’s book can be picked up from the West Indianapolis Branch. Adults are invited to this free monthly book discussion program. We (usually) meet on the second Monday of the month.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Adult Book Discussion at Fort Ben
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 6:30pm
  • Location: Fort Ben Branch
  • Description: Octavia Butler’s “Parable of the Sower” follows Lauren Olamina as she flees Southern California’s ecological and societal collapse to Northern California.
  • No Registration Required.

Need help?

Ask a Library staff member at any of our locations or call, text or email Ask-a-Librarian. The Tinker Station helpline at (317) 275-4500 is also available. It is staffed by device experts who can answer questions about how to read, watch and listen on a PC, tablet or phone.

In The King of Kindergarten, a little boy’s parents encourage him and fill him with confidence in the time leading up to his first day of school. He can be the King of it, even if he doesn’t know everything yet! “It sounds like a lot, but you’re the King of Kindergarten. Piece. Of. Cake.” This joyful attitude about how to welcome new experiences helps him have a great first day of kindergarten! The parents in The King of Kindergarten help by passing on the excitement of learning and the perspective that even if something is difficult at first – there will be a classroom of friends and a teacher to learn with. Learning will be fun! You can listen to The King of Kindergarten right now, read by Alvin Irby from Barbershop Books. Its starting school storytime online!

Talk!

After listening to the story, talk about some of the things that happened in it.

  • What did the boy eat for breakfast? What is your favorite breakfast?
  • What did the boy in the story do that was very brave?
  • How was the boy going to get to school?
  • What did the father use to measure how tall the boy was?

Read!

Another great idea to get ready for the first day of school is reading books about other kids and favorite characters who are ALSO worried about the first day of school. Stories featuring the Berenstain Bears, Amelia Bedelia, Curious George and more can help your child practice what it might feel like to be anxious about school and learn great strategies for having fun instead!

Use your indyPL Library Card to check out books about starting school at any of our locations, or check out e-books and audiobooks about starting school from OverDrive Kids right to your device! If you have never used OverDrive before, you can learn how to use it for both e-books and audiobooks.

Click on the book covers below to listen to more video read aloud stories about starting school right now! It’s starting school storytime online! Did you like these? You can find more stories at Free Video Read Alouds and enjoy even more themed reading and activity fun at IndyPL’s DIY Online Storytimes at Home.

title - Blank Entrytitle - How to Be Kind in Kindergartentitle - Kindergarten, Here I Come!title - Blank Entrytitle - Blank Entrytitle - Blank Entrytitle - Blank Entrytitle - Blank Entrytitle - Blank Entrytitle - Blank Entrytitle - Blank Entrytitle - Blank Entrytitle - Blank Entry

Kindergarten Jitters – More Books to Check Out

Starting school for the first time can be scary or overwhelming! Covering topics from leaving parents and siblings at home, to riding the school bus, to meeting new classmates and eating lunch in the cafeteria, these picture books help new students understand what to expect on their first day, and teach them to cope with nervousness or anxiety.

Title - LenaTitle - Butterflies on the First Day of SchoolTitle - Mr. OuchyTitle - It

Sing!

This sing-a-long will help you get excited to go to school! Watch Marshall, Skye, Chase, Blaze, Shimmer and Shine, Molly, Gil, Bot, and Geo reimagined as fuzzy felt friends singing about school.

Play!

Here are nine classic preschool games your new student is bound to play at school. Give them a heads up by pre-playing some of these crowd pleasers together!

Join Us for In-Person Storytime!

  • Event: Storytime at Glendale – Babies
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: Glendale Branch
  • Description: Babies up to 24 months and an adult are invited for stories, songs, fingerplays, and fun! Each session is followed by playtime with special toys designed just for babies.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Preschool Storytime at Southport
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: Southport Branch
  • Description: Preschoolers ages 3 – 5 and an adult are invited for an active class featuring stories, songs and rhymes that focus on early literacy skills and school preparedness.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Baby ArtsPlay
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: East Washington Branch
  • Description: Little ones will be engaged through stories and songs with sensory play and body movement activities! Help your 6 month-36 month child with their motor skills, emergent language, spatial awareness, and object permanence in this workshop with teaching artist Amauunet Ashé from Arts for Learning.
  • Register Here

Need Help?

Ask a Library staff member at any of our locations or call, text, or email Ask-a-Librarian. The Tinker Station helpline at (317) 275-4500 is also available. It is staffed by device experts who can answer questions about how to read, watch and listen on a PC, tablet or phone.

Beginning or reluctant readers ages 6 – 11 are often invited to read aloud to a registered therapy dog in our libraries – a dog who loves to listen to stories! Children register to read for a 15 minute paws to read session. Reading to a dog is a great way to improve a child’s reading skills and self-confidence. Children may read from any book they choose.

  • Event: Paws to Read at Southport
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 6:00pm
  • Location: Southport Branch
  • Description: Beginning or reluctant readers ages 6 – 11 are invited to read aloud to a registered therapy dog who loves to listen to stories. It’s a great way to improve a child’s reading skills and self-confidence. Children may read from any book they choose.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Paws to Read at Spades Park
  • Date & Time: Saturday, October 19, 10:30am
  • Location: Spades Park Branch
  • Description: School-aged children who are beginning or reluctant readers are invited to read to Winston, a registered therapy dog, who loves to listen to stories. Sign up for a 15 minutes session in a non-judgmental setting. It’s a great way to improve a child’s reading skills and self-confidence!
  • Register Here
  • Event: Paws to Read at Fort Ben
  • Date & Time: Saturday, October 19, 11:00am
  • Location: Fort Ben Branch
  • Description: Children who are reluctant readers are invited to read to a registered therapy dog. This activity can help young ones improve their reading skills and self-confidence. Participants may sign-up for a 15-minute reading session by visiting the Fort Ben branch or by calling 317-275-4570.
  • Register Here

If your child has never tried reading to a dog before and wants to learn a little about what that might be like to attend a paws to read session, listen below to the story, Madeline Finn and the Library Dog. Meet Madeline, who does not like to read. She doesn’t like to read books, magazines, or even the menu on the ice cream truck! Mrs. Dimple, the librarian, suggests Madeline read to a dog, and so Madeline meets Bonnie, who is beautiful, like a big snowy polar bear, and a very good listener! When Madeline can’t get the words right, Bonnie doesn’t mind. Madeline realizes it’s ok to go slow and keep trying.

Here are some more dog stories you can listen to, just click on a book jacket to hear the story!

title - Charlie the Ranch Dogtitle - Dog's Colorful Daytitle - A Greyhound, A Groundhogtitle - Hot Dogtitle - Harry, the Dirty Dogtitle - The Night I Followed the Dogtitle - The Poky Little Puppytitle - R Is for Rocket

Websites, Printables & Activities:

e-Books & Audiobooks:

Use your indyPL Library Card to check out books about dogs at any of our locations, or check out dog e-books and audiobooks from OverDrive Kids right to your device! If you have never used OverDrive before, you can learn how to use e-books or learn how to use audiobooks.

Looking for even more books to read about dogs? Try these recommendations from IndyPL staff:

Need help? Ask a Library staff member at any of our locations or call, text, or email Ask-a-Librarian.

Kids love dogs. Our librarians do too! When asked which book dogs are their favorite for storytime, Harry the Dirty Dog and Bark, George won by a landslide! Harry is the story of a pooch who doesn’t want to take a bath. George is about a puppy whose mother can’t seem to teach him how to bark. “Meow,” says George! Watch the video of Betty White reading Harry the Dirty Dog right now! It’s Dog storytime online!

Talk!

After listening to the story, talk about some of the things that happened in it.

  • What does Harry look like?
  • What does Harry do to avoid taking a bath?
  • Why does Harry decide to leave home?
  • What did Harry do to show his family who he was?

Read!

Use your indyPL Library Card to check out books about dogs at any of our locations, or check out Dog e-books and audiobooks from Overdrive Kids right to your device. If you have never used OverDrive before, you can learn how to use it for e-books and alearn how to use it for audiobooks.

Click on the book covers below to listen to more video read aloud stories starring dogs right now! It’s dog storytime online! Did you like these? You can find even more stories at Free Video Read Alouds and IndyPL’s DIY Storytimes at Home.

title - Charlie the Ranch Dogtitle - Blank Entrytitle - Dog's Colorful Daytitle - A Greyhound, A Groundhogtitle - Hot Dogtitle - The Night I Followed the Dogtitle - The Poky Little Puppytitle - R Is for Rockettitle - Some Dogs Do

Picture Books for Kids in Puppy Love to Check Out with your IndyPL Library Card

List Cover Images - IndyPL Librarian Picks: Picture Books for Kids in Puppy LoveKids love dogs. Our librarians do too! When asked which book dogs are their favorite for story time, Harry the Dirty Dog and Bark, George won by a landslide! Here are some suggestions from them for little readers who can’t get enough puppy love. E-books and downloadable audiobooks are available.

Sing!

Are you ready for a PAW Patrol sing along? PAW patrol is on a roll with this compilation of PAW Patrol nursery rhymes!

Play!

Take a walk and read a story as you go! We invite you to visit StoryWalk® in Ruckle Street Park at 3025 Ruckle Street. Stroll through the park and read a book displayed in mounted frames. Or Skip. Or gallop!

Set up an outdoor hunt, but instead of Easter eggs, hunt for dog bones! Or, instead of “Simon Says” play “The Dog Trainer Says” so kids can sit, bark, stay, and fetch – just like their favorite dog storybook characters!

Join Us for In-Person Storytime!

  • Event: Storytime at Glendale – Babies
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: Glendale Branch
  • Description: Babies up to 24 months and an adult are invited for stories, songs, fingerplays, and fun! Each session is followed by playtime with special toys designed just for babies.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Preschool Storytime at Southport
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: Southport Branch
  • Description: Preschoolers ages 3 – 5 and an adult are invited for an active class featuring stories, songs and rhymes that focus on early literacy skills and school preparedness.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Baby ArtsPlay
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, October 15, 10:30am
  • Location: East Washington Branch
  • Description: Little ones will be engaged through stories and songs with sensory play and body movement activities! Help your 6 month-36 month child with their motor skills, emergent language, spatial awareness, and object permanence in this workshop with teaching artist Amauunet Ashé from Arts for Learning.
  • Register Here

Need Help?

Ask a Library staff member at any of our locations or call, text, or email Ask-a-Librarian. The Tinker Station helpline at (317) 275-4500 is also available. It is staffed by device experts who can answer questions about how to read, watch and listen on a PC, tablet or phone.

“Running! If there’s any activity happier, more exhilarating, more nourishing to the imagination, I can’t think of what it might be.”

—Joyce Carol Oates

Check out these ideas for inspirational books, music, movies and local opportunities to jump start your training season running in Indianapolis.

Local Races and Great Places to Run

If you’re interested in training for a 5K or half marathon, there are lots of local resources to help you get ready. The Indy YMCAs offer training programs – check their website for more information. The National Institute for Fitness and Sport, right here in Indianapolis, also offers half marathon training.

There are a number of groups in the city devoted to fitness and running that are free and welcoming! Check out Black Girls RunNovember ProjectBlack Men Run, and Indy Runners.

Many local running stores also offer training as well as free group runs. Ask them about what they might offer.

Once you’re ready to race, look for events on these online calendars:

Running Paths Near Libraries

Pair a good run with a Library visit! Many of our locations are within a short distance of excellent places to run, making running in Indianapolis even more fun!

There are races practically every weekend too, from 5Ks to full marathons and triathlons. So what are you waiting for? Lace up your shoes and start running! Browse the running books below to inspire you or queue up an audiobook or some new music – free with your IndyPL library card!

New Titles for Runners

I like to read about running as much as I like to run! Here are some new titles in our collection for fans and students of the sport.

Title - How to Run the Perfect RaceTitle - RunDisneyTitle - All You Need Is Rhythm & GritTitle - The Examined RunTitle - To the GorgeTitle - Step Up!Title - The Boston Marathon HandbookTitle - The Race Against TimeTitle - Better, Faster, FartherTitle - TRAILS AND TRIBULATIONSTitle - Brief Flashings in the Phenomenal WorldTitle - Ultrarunning for Normal People