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.

2024 Staff Picks

Explore our 2024 Staff Picks for adults, teens, and kids. Find the perfect audiobook to accompany your morning walk, or choose a movie to enjoy on a cozy winter afternoon. Additionally, browse through our recommendations for holiday gift ideas that will delight your favorite readers!

Listen with Liz – December 2024

I love nonfiction audiobooks. This is a totally random list of titles I listened to in November 2024. Titles are listed in alphabetical order.

Title - Be Ready When the Luck HappensTitle - The Art of PowerTitle - The Black WidowTitle - Gather Me

Light Reads to Combat Early Sunsets

The nights are getting longer so here are some books to lighten up your mood.

Title - How to Age DisgracefullyTitle - The Prophet and the IdiotTitle - Single Dads ClubTitle - Assistant to the Villain

Holly Jolly History

Have you ever paused, mid-carol, and wondered “Why would someone give their beloved So Many Birds?!?” Does the presence of eggnog at family gatherings both intrigue and confuse you? Do you fear – but long to befriend – the Yule Cat? Take a factual and fun journey into the merry and sometimes macabre origins of Christmas traditions!

Title - Christmas PastTitle - Why We Kiss Under the MistletoeTitle - Inventing the Christmas TreeTitle - Christmas

Underdog Stories

When things are tough, an underdog story is a great way to feel inspired to keep going. Here are some underdog stories to enjoy on Underdog Day, Friday, December 20, 2024.

Title - Into Unknown SkiesTitle - The Boys of RiversideTitle - UnderdawgsTitle - The Watermen

This Year in Books

2024… Wow. What a year! Let us look back together on it with some titles directly or indirectly related to the many happenings of this calendar year. Here’s to 2025!

Title - I Think YouTitle - AI Snake OilTitle - Caitlin ClarkTitle - Taylor Swift

STEM or STEAM?

National and Federal scientific organizations promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) learning to improve the national share of workers employed in related fields. Librarians, and some educators, argue that art is not only as important in its own right, but also a vital part of STEM education programs and workforce fields. The materials below prove that A(rt) belongs in STEM.

Title - Cosmic MotorsTitle - Medieval RobotsTitle - Deep AffinitiesTitle - Design of Straw Bale Buildings

Eat Like an Athlete

Whether you are running marathons or smashing it on the pickleball court, nutrition should be part of your game plan. Check out some of these titles to help you fuel for your next competition.

Title - The Cycling Chef on the GoTitle - SPRING Forward for GirlsTitle - Eat Like A LegendTitle - EAT TO WIN

Exploring the World of the Saxophone

The saxophone, with its unmistakable tone and rich history, has captivated musicians and listeners for generations. Whether you’re a budding saxophonist, a seasoned player, or simply an admirer of its soulful sound, diving into literature about this iconic instrument offers endless inspiration and knowledge. This curated book list highlights essential reads, from biographies of legendary players to technical guides, jazz history, and more. Each selection invites you to deepen your appreciation of the saxophone’s artistry, evolution, and cultural significance.

See our full schedule of 2025 Circulating Concerts at the Library!

Title - Saxophone ColossusTitle - Ornette ColemanTitle - Celebrating BirdTitle - Jazz

Sports Manga & Anime

Manga and anime cover a wide variety of genres, including sports! Even if you aren’t a big sports fan, these titles still have great characters and often page-turning plots! From volleyball and basketball to figure skating, cycling, and competitive card games, there’s a title for just about everyone!

Title - ChihayafuruTitle - Haikyu!Title - KurokoTitle - Medalist

Coffee Table Photography Books: 2024

Immerse yourself in exquisite imagery! These stunning photography books, published in 2024, cover a range of themes, photographic techniques, and time periods.

Title - Tokyo TokyoTitle - Corky LeeTitle - HawaiTitle - Eight Seconds

Culinary Book Club – Cookbooks about the Holidays

There are several holidays that are celebrated in November and December. Take a look at a few of the cookbooks that will help you bring some delicious ways of celebrating with friends and family.

Title - The Friendsgiving CookbookTitle - Vegan Holiday CookbookTitle - Delicious GatheringsTitle - A SWEET YEAR

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!

Staff Picks 2024- Best of Teen

Enjoy this list of our favorite YA reads of 2024, which spans genres. Enjoy dark academia, fake dating, poetry, comic adventures, subverted fantasy tropes, heists, D&D, and more!

Don’t forget that this year, we’ve included our favorite selections from the back catalog, in the hopes you can get your hands on a book you’ll love right now.

Title - Where Sleeping Girls LieTitle - Hockey Girl Loves Drama BoyTitle - Dear WendyTitle - The Unboxing of A Black Girl

Sports Manga & Anime

Manga and anime cover a wide variety of genres, including sports! Even if you aren’t a big sports fan, these titles still have great characters and often page-turning plots! From volleyball and basketball to figure skating, cycling, and competitive card games, there’s a title for just about everyone!

Title - ChihayafuruTitle - Haikyu!Title - KurokoTitle - Medalist

What to Read Next Based on Your Favorite Taylor Swift Song

Don’t see your favorite song? Head over to your local branch and ask which librarian is a Swifty and they’ll help you figure it out!

Title - To All the Boys ITitle - The Cheat SheetTitle - These Violent DelightsTitle - If the Shoe Fits

Korean Manhwa

Known as manhwa (만화), these graphic novels were originally published in Korean. Manhwa is the general term for comics and print cartoons in South Korea. Manhwa is often inspired by Japanese manga, but there are a few key differences. Unlike manga, manhwa is typically read from left to right and usually features color illustrations. There are a variety of genres represented on this list and each title is labeled with the intended audience. If you’re a fan of K-dramas, you might recognize a few of these titles as several have been adapted for television and film.

Title - Your LetterTitle - Solo LevelingTitle - The HorizonTitle - Villains Are Destined to Die

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

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

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.

Staff Picks 2024 – Best of Picture Books

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Our staff share some of their favorite picture books from 2024 that they have seen – from beautiful to funny, we hope there is something for you and your littlest readers to enjoy.

Title - The Yellow BusTitle - Treehouse TownTitle - It Bears RepeatingTitle - The Bakery Dragon

Staff Picks 2024 – Best of Fiction for Kids

Some of our favorite new fiction titles published for kids. At the very bottom of the list, enjoy older bonus material: staff were also asked if they read an older title/not published in 2024 that they might also recommend.

Title - FerrisTitle - The Bletchley RiddleTitle - Amari And The Despicable WondersTitle - The Color of Sound

Holiday Storytime Online

Christmas

A long, cold December night is a great time to share favorite Christmas stories! There are many holiday classics to choose from to get your family into the holiday spirit. You can listen to a video read aloud of the favorite, Llama Llama Holiday Drama, by Anna Dewdney, right now! More free video read alouds are listed here along with printable activities and Christmas favorites you can check out with your IndyPL library card. It’s Christmas storytime online! Have a wonderful holiday! Enjoy Christmas Storytime Online.

Hanukkah

Hanukkah in Alaska, by Barbara Brown and winner of the 2014 Sydney Taylor Book Award, is the story of what Hanukkah is like for a little girl living during a long, cold Alaskan winter. For her, daylight only lasts for five hours each day and she doesn’t have squirrels or rabbits in her backyard, she has a moose! Can she convince the moose to leave her trees and swing alone by sharing a Hanukkah treat? You can listen to Hanukkah in Alaska right now, read aloud by Molly Ephraim. Enjoy Hanukkah Storytime Online.

Staff Picks 2024 – Best of Graphic Novels for Kids

Some of staff’s favorite graphic novels they read and enjoyed.

Title - Blood City RollersTitle - Plain Jane and the MermaidTitle - Continental DrifterTitle - Falling in Love With A Traveling Cat

Books for Kids to Celebrate Kwanzaa and Nguzo Saba

Kwanzaa is a celebration in the U.S. that honors African heritage. It is observed from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, ending with gifts and a feast. Kwanzaa features customs from different traditional African celebrations that include singing, dancing, storytelling and African drums.

Staff Picks 2024 – Best of Beginning and Early Readers for Kids

Staff sent in some of their favorite 2024 books that fall into our JZ and JE category. JZ are the books for young readers that are beginning to read on their own and typically these books have very controlled vocabulary and still a lot of pictures. (Think Piggie and Elephant; Bob books; Yasmin). JEs are books that introduce a longer narrative and sometimes chapters or vignettes; contain more content; characters that have depth and experiences. (Think Magic Treehouse or Bad Guy series)

Title - Bunny and ClydeTitle - Fox Plays BallTitle - The Adventure and Other StoriesTitle - The Cozy Home

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. 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

Dino-mite Christmas

Have yourself a Cretaceous Christmas with these picture books.

Title - Dinosaur Christmas!Title - The Dinosaur That Pooped Christmas!Title - Dinosaur, Dinosaur, ItTitle - Rory the Dinosaur Needs A Christmas Tree

Join Us for Storytime!

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  • Event: Storytime at Spades Park
  • Date & Time: Thursday, December 12, 10:30am
  • Location: Spades Park Branch
  • Description: Babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and an adult are invited to join us for stories and more every Thursday in the Community Room followed by socialization time for children and caregivers.
  • No Registration Required.
  • Event: Storytime at Glendale – Babies
  • Date & Time: Thursday, December 12, 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.

Explore our 2024 Staff Picks for adults, teens, and kids to discover your next great read from our curated selections. Find the perfect audiobook to accompany your morning walk, or choose a movie to enjoy on a cozy winter afternoon. Additionally, browse through our recommendations for holiday gift ideas that will delight your favorite readers. Whether you’re searching for engaging books, entertaining media, or thoughtful gifts, our 2024 Staff Picks offer something for everyone to enjoy.

You can keep up with our staff’s reading recommendations throughout the year by visiting What We’re Reading, What We’re Reading for Teens, and What We’re Reading Kids. Additionally, you can find our suggestions prominently displayed on the library catalog home page. These resources provide a continually updated list of book recommendations for all ages, ensuring you always have fresh ideas for your next read. Whether you’re seeking captivating books for yourself, your teens, or your kids, our curated selections will inspire and guide your literary journey.


Staff Picks for Adults

Best of Nonfiction

As library workers, we’re always learning and this list of our favorite nonfiction books from 2024 reflects that. Check out books on basketball, friendship, life in the middle ages, homelessness, cars, birds, and more. Looking for cookbooks, craft books, or other lifestyle books? Check out our lifestyle list!

Title - ThereTitle - Cue the SunTitle - Birds Through Indigenous EyesTitle - When Driving Is Not An Option

Best of Biographies and Memoirs

Memoirs and biographies often manage to reach beyond the life of an individual and to dive deep into the particularities of our messy culture. Our favorite memoirs of 2024 touch on gender fluidity, grief, disability, motherhood, science, immigration, and democracy. Are we missing your favorite? Don’t forget to check our Best of Nonfiction list, you may find it there!

Title - Cactus CountryTitle - Grief Is for PeopleTitle - Burn BookTitle - Sociopath

Best of Fiction

Here are a few of our staff members favorite fiction books from 2024. There’s a little something for everyone. Looking for a book that captures the violence of girlhood? Check out Headshot or Brutes. Fascinated by the ways that economic precarity can both forge and complicate relationships? Checkout Come and Get It or Margo’s Got Money Troubles. Want a warm feel good tale that will help your forget about the chaos of the world? Try We’ll Prescribe You a Cat, Sipsworth, or Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame. Plus aliens trying to make sense of the world, sweeping family epics, and nuclear power plants on the verge of melt down.

Think we’re missing something? Don’t forget to check out our genre lists.

New this year: we’ve included some recommendations at the bottom of the list that were our favorite reads from previous years. Hopefully, these will have a shorter hold list for you!

Title - Come and Get ItTitle - Wandering StarsTitle - HeadshotTitle - Margo

Best of Historical Fiction

Here are a few of our staff members favorite historical fiction selections of 2024– covering a span of hundreds of years. Read a trippy reimagining of Montezuma and Cortez’s meeting, see how an 18th century midwife handles being on trial for murder, or experience Huckleberry Finn from the point of view of James, the enslaved man at the center of the narrative. Looking for epic narratives that deal with the present as well as history? Take a peek at our Best of Fiction list.

New this year: we’ve included some recommendations at the bottom of the list that were our favorite reads from previous years. Hopefully, these will have a shorter hold list for you!

Title - JamesTitle - The WomenTitle - You Dreamed of EmpiresTitle - The Frozen River

Best of Lifestyle

Okay, so when we say lifestyle we mean mostly cookbooks. We clearly have a penchant for the quick and the easy, considering our cookbooks range from canned tomatoes, Japanese convenience store foods, and truly anything that implies “this won’t take long.” But we’ve also got books on watercolor, travel, and vegan desserts. Hopefully, you’ll find something to your ~taste~!

Title - 111 Places in Black Culture in Washington, DC That You Must Not MissTitle - KonbiniTitle - The Tinned Tomatoes CookbookTitle - Our South

Best of Romance

In the mood for a light, fun romance? Check out all the books our staff fell in love with in 2024.

For the literary lovers, we have romances involving a children’s librarian and a bookstore. For the fantasy lovers, there are werewolves and fae and dragons (oh my!). Come for the 60’s baseball and shotgun weddings, stay for the swoony romance.

Title - Funny StoryTitle - BrideTitle - The PairingTitle - Perfume & Pain

Best of Sci-Fi/Fantasy

2024 is the year of subverted tropes and plot lines. Fantasy villains wake up with amnesia to grapple with their crimes (Dreadful), magical girls must grapple with purchasing decisions (A Magical Girl Retires), a scholarship student destroys the academy (The Practice, the Horizon, and the Chain), and adults must return to their fantasy worlds (The Lost Story).

Of course, if you’re looking for something entirely original, there’s plenty of that too! A cannibalistic demon makes an Indian food documentary (Rare Flavours), a woman is trapped in the body of a wooly mammoth (Tusks of Extinction), and futuristic reality show sees couples raising virtual babies for the chance to have a real child (The Family Experiment).

Looking for speculative horror? Check out our suspense list!

Title - DreadfulTitle - The FamiliarTitle - Lore of the WildsTitle - The Practice, the Horizon, and the Chain

Best of Suspense

In the mood to freak yourself out? Check out our staff’s favorite horror, mystery, and thriller novels from 2024.

We’ve got stories of missing children that span decades (The God of the Woods and The Middle of the Night, All the Colors of the Dark), lots of haunted houses (Incidents Around the House, We Use to Live Here, and Model Home), and indigenous suspense (The Angel of Indian Lake and Where They Last Saw Her).

Title - Incidents Around the HouseTitle - We Used to Live HereTitle - The God of the WoodsTitle - My Favorite Thing Is Monsters

Best of DVDs

Did you miss the chance to see a movie in theatres? You don’t need to wait for movies to hit a streaming platform– instead, snag one of our favorite DVDs of 2024, pop a bag of popcorn and enjoy.

Ranging from family friendly to … not that, these DVDs will make you laugh, cry, and cringe.

Title - Dune, Part TwoTitle - ChallengersTitle - Lisa FrankensteinTitle - The boy and the heron

Staff Picks for Kids & Teens

Best of Picture Books

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Our staff share some of their favorite picture books from 2024 that they have seen – from beautiful to funny, we hope there is something for you and your littlest readers to enjoy. One older title submitted added at the bottom of the list.

Title - The Yellow BusTitle - Treehouse TownTitle - It Bears RepeatingTitle - The Bakery Dragon

Best of Graphic Novels for Kids

Graphic novels for kids are formatted like a comic book but are typically longer and more developed than traditional comic books. These novels use illustrations, speech bubbles, and panel layouts. They’re a great way to encourage young readers to enjoy reading. The illustrations provide visual cues that help with comprehension. Here are some of our staff’s favorite graphic novels from 2024 to read and enjoy!

Title - Blood City RollersTitle - Plain Jane and the MermaidTitle - Continental DrifterTitle - Falling in Love With A Traveling Cat

Best of Beginning and Early Readers for Kids

Staff favorites that fall into our beginning and early readers category can be found at the library in the jZ (Beginner) and jE (Early Reader) sections. Books for children beginning to read on their own typically have very controlled vocabulary and a lot of pictures. (Think Piggie and Elephant, Bob Books, or Yasmin.) Books for Early Readers introduce children to a longer stories, often with chapters or vignettes. These books contain more content and the characters have more depth and experiences. (Think Magic Treehouse or Bad Guy series.)

Title - Bunny and ClydeTitle - Fox Plays BallTitle - The Adventure and Other StoriesTitle - The Cozy Home

Best of Fiction for Kids

Some of our favorite new fiction titles published for kids. At the very bottom of the list, enjoy older bonus material: staff were also asked if they read an older title/not published in 2024 that they might also recommend.

Title - FerrisTitle - The Bletchley RiddleTitle - Amari And The Despicable WondersTitle - The Color of Sound

Best of Teen

Enjoy this list of our favorite YA reads of 2024, which spans genres. Enjoy dark academia, fake dating, poetry, comic adventures, subverted fantasy tropes, heists, D&D, and more!

Don’t forget that this year, we’ve included our favorite selections from the back catalog, in the hopes you can get your hands on a book you’ll love right now.

Title - Where Sleeping Girls LieTitle - Hockey Girl Loves Drama BoyTitle - Dear WendyTitle - The Unboxing of A Black Girl

According to the American Society of Deaf Children (ASDC), “Research shows that reading and signing stories together helps promote essential literacy skills for ALL children: deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing.” This page highlights some favorites! Just click on a book cover to enjoy the video read alouds in American Sign Language. To keep up-to-date on new releases and see a more complete listing, The ASDC maintains a running list of signed stories in their ASL Stories Directory. Use it to quickly find stories by a child’s age or by the book’s title. Also, join us for in-person storytimes with ASL interpretation!

Programs for Kids with ASL Interpretation

Foodie Friends…
  • Event: Foodie Friends
  • Date & Time: Wednesday, February 05, 2:00pm
  • Location: Beech Grove Branch
  • Description: Read, play, learn, and make snacks! Children ages 3-5 will join Nutrition Services from the Marion County Public Health Department to explore colors found in healthy foods. This program will have ASL interpretation.
  • Register Here
Healing Through Nature for Kid…
Play & Learn with Gymboree…
  • Event: Play & Learn with Gymboree
  • Date & Time: Wednesday, March 12, 10:30am
  • Location: Franklin Road Branch
  • Description: Walking, running, or exploring: calling all “big kids!” More adventures come to life through imaginary play in this multi-age program with an expert from Gymboree! This program is intended for mobile children up to age 5! This program will have ASL interpretation.
  • Register Here

Online Stories that are both Read Aloud and Signed (ASL):

title - Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Daytitle - A Birthday Basket for Tíatitle - Black Is A Rainbow Colortitle - Chester's Waytitle - Click, Clack, Splish, Splashtitle - David Goes to Schooltitle - Un día de nievetitle - The Family Booktitle - Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bedtitle - Good Night, Gorillatitle - Heckedy Pegtitle - Imogene's Antlerstitle - It's Okay to Make Mistakestitle - The Little Red Hentitle - Lola at the Librarytitle - The Snowy Daytitle - La sombrilla grandetitle - Tektitle - Tu mamá es una llama?

Online Stories Signed (ASL) Only:

title - The Book With No Picturestitle - Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?title - Clifford the Firehouse Dogtitle - D.W. Flipstitle - Dinosaur Roar!title - The Duckling Gets A Cookie!?title - Duncan the Story Dragontitle - I Stink!title - I Went Walkingtitle - If You Plant A Seedtitle - Nita's First Signstitle - Planting A Rainbowtitle - Purplicioustitle - There's An Alligator Under My Bedtitle - Where the Wild Things Are

Where to Find More Video Read Alouds in American Sign Language:

Online and @Home Activities:

Sign with Me! Learn Basic Sign Language Together

Learning a second language is not only good for your brain, it also lets you communicate with a new group of people. American Sign Language (ASL) is spoken by around 1,000,000 people in the United States. Introduce your children to the world of signing with the books in this collection.

Title - Can Bears Ski?Title - Hands & HeartsTitle - Baby SigningTitle - The Sound of All ThingsTitle - The Mitten StringTitle - The William Hoy StoryTitle - Friendship GoalsTitle - Moses Sees A Play

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

November 6
Fostering Literacy with the World Languages Collection
(Olanike Olaniyi and Keshia McEntire)


2024

November 6
Fall Fest
(Bryanna Barnes)

October 23
Crafting at the Library
(Kelsey Abernathy)

October 9
Meet an Author, Be an Author
(Jill Edwards)

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 Lawrence
  • Date & Time: Tuesday, December 17, 10:30am
  • Location: Lawrence Branch
  • Description: Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program. The title for December is “Imagine Your Life Like This” by Sarah Layden. Author Sarah Layden will be leading this book discussion.   
  • Register Here

Explore the rich diversity of books by Indigenous authors, offering unique perspectives for both adults and children. Let us help you discover these remarkable stories!

Read an award winner by an Indigenous author.

Make a selection from some of the most distinguished honors in literature.

The Indigenous Voices Awards were established in 2017 to support and nurture the work of Indigenous writers in lands claimed by Canada. “The awards honour the sovereignty of Indigenous creative voices and reject cultural appropriation; to be eligible for the Indigenous Voices Awards, authors must be Indigenous and must make a declaration of Indigenous identity.”

The American Indian Youth Literature Award “identifies and honors the very best writing and illustrations by Native Americans and Indigenous peoples of North America. Books selected to receive the award present Indigenous North American peoples in the fullness of their humanity.” Categories include Best Picture Book, Best Middle Grade Book, and Best Young Adult Book.

Browse our e-Book & Streaming Indigenous author collections.

We have thousands of books, audiobooks, movies, and tv shows for kids, teens, and adults to download or stream instantly with an IndyPL Library card.

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.

Get reading recommendations.

Finding Indigenous authors for adults & teens.

Browse suggested viewing and reading from The Eiteljorg Museum. Their author selections range from history to science fiction, to autobiography, horror and poetry. See some of their recommendations linked to our catalog for easy check out. In addition, the museum has a Spotify playlist of the diverse sounds of Indigenous Peoples. You can get a preview of what you might see visiting the Eiteljorg Museum. Look at some of items in their collection of Native American Art in their online collection.

In addition, First Nations publishes a list of essential reading for anyone interested in learning about the Native American experience.

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. 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.” ~ First Nations President & CEO Michael Roberts.

First Nations indicates on the list which titles are especially good ones to start with. Here are a few of their selections or browse the full First Nations list.

Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown

“Eloquent, heartbreaking, and meticulously documented, Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee follows the systematic destruction of the American Indian during the second half of the 19th century. Using council records, autobiographies, and firsthand descriptions, Brown’s work highlights the voices of those American Indians who actually experienced the battles, massacres, and broken treaties.”
print | e-book (OverDrive) | audiobook (OverDrive)

An Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States by Roxanne Dunbar Ortiz

“Historian and activist Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz offers a history of the United States told from the perspective of Indigenous peoples and reveals how Native Americans, for centuries, actively resisted expansion of the US empire. Dunbar-Ortiz challenges the founding myth of the United States and shows how policy against the Indigenous peoples was colonialist and designed to seize the territories of the original inhabitants, displacing or eliminating them.”
print | e-book (OverDrive) | audiobook (OverDrive)

Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians But Were Afraid to Ask by Anton Treuer

“Treuer, an Ojibwe scholar and cultural preservationist, answers the most commonly asked questions about American Indians, both historical and modern. He gives a frank, funny, and personal tour of what’s up with Indians, anyway.”
print

“All the Real Indians Died Off” and 20 Other Myths About Native Americans by Roxanne Dunbar Ortiz

“Dunbar-Ortiz shows how myths about Native Americans are rooted in the fears and prejudice of European settlers and in the larger political agendas of a settler state aimed at acquiring Indigenous land and are tied to narratives of erasure and disappearance. All the Real Indians Died Off challenges readers to rethink what they have been taught about Native Americans and history.”
print | e-book (OverDrive) | audiobook (OverDrive)

Finding Indigenous authors for children.

Finding Indigenous books for children has been made easier since 2006 when Dr. Debbie Reese (Nambé Pueblo) began her website, American Indians in Children’s Literature (AICL). Dr. Reese provides American Indian Children’s Literature Best Books Lists each year to help parents and teachers find great books for kids! Browse many of these titles in our catalog.

Additional lists of best Indigenous books for children can be found at:

Use your IndyPL Library card to login to Novelist Plus

On Novelist Plus you’ll find recommendations, read-alikes, series lists, reviews, and lists of award-winning books by Indigenous authors. Browse the Indigenous Lives category.

Here is a sample listing from Indigenous Lives to show a star rating and the option to “Check Availability” to see if it is available to borrow from IndyPL.

Indigenous Authors

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!

Are you looking for to help give kids an age appropriate introduction to Thanksgiving history? Try our blog post Talking to Kids About Thanksgiving.

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

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 Powwow

Picture Books for Kids by and about American Indians

A guide to some of the best picture books by and about American Indians recommended by The American Indian Library Association, American Indians in Children’s Literature (AICL), or firstnations.org.

Title - Powwow DayTitle - Just Like GrandmaTitle - If You Lived During the Plimoth ThanksgivingTitle - My Powerful HairTitle - Autumn Peltier, Water WarriorTitle - The Secret PocketTitle - KeepunumukTitle - Heart Berry Bling

Even Vampires Celebrate Fangsgiving!

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!

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 Spades Park
  • Date & Time: Thursday, December 12, 10:30am
  • Location: Spades Park Branch
  • Description: Babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and an adult are invited to join us for stories and more every Thursday in the Community Room followed by socialization time for children and caregivers.
  • 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.

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 55th Annual National Day of Mourning on November 28, 2024. 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.

Looking for something fun to do or the perfect book to curl up with on a dark and stormy night? If so, join us for some exciting fall activities at the Library! If you need a reading recommendation, our knowledgeable staff is here to assist you. With a variety of engaging events and expert book suggestions, we are excited to help you find the ideal activity or book to make your fall enjoyable and memorable.

Programs

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!

If You Like Horror

stacks of old books and a skull

If you’re specifically seeking extra-terror, we can help you find your next horrifying read. First, explore our list of horror award winners. Additionally, check out recommendations from your favorite authors. For ongoing inspiration, subscribe to our horror book newsletter, delivered right to your inbox every month. With these options, you’ll have plenty of ways to discover chilling reads that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Fall Reading Recommendations

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Looking for some mysterious or spooky fun? Start by exploring our curated book lists that feature popular fall and Halloween reading genres, TV shows, and movies. Additionally, enjoy a variety of fall-themed activities at The Library every day. With these resources, you can immerse yourself in the seasonal spirit and discover new favorites to enjoy throughout the season.

Fiction

  • AhOoooooh – Werewolves of Fiction – IndyPL_KaseyP

    Why do shapeshifters fascinate us so? Maybe it’s the transformational quality, or the idea that we’ve all got a little beast hidden inside of us. These stories of lycanthropy promise fear, fascination, and maybe a few howls at the moon!

  • Clowns: Scary or Not So Scary? – IndyPL_ChaseM

    Read through this list of clown related books and movies, to determine on a case-by-case basis if the clown or clowns are scary…or not so scary!

  • Crime-solving spooks – IndyPL_SarahS

    Sometimes, having been murdered is the best preparation for solving crimes. It’s a weirdly popular trope among cozy mysteries.

  • Deadly Games Movies & Books – IndyPL_RyanL

    Horror and thriller movies/books about deadly survival competitions and games that will leave you hearing the eerie phrase “Do you want to play a game?”

  • Dolls: Scary or Not So Scary? – IndyPL_ChaseM

    Pediophobia is the fear of dolls or inanimate objects that appear human, Examine these books and movies on a case-by-case basis to determine if dolls are scary…or not so scary!

  • Graphic Novels To Die For – IndyPL_ShainaS

    Within this spooky list, you’ll find some lesser known graphic novel gems spotlighted. But beware, their shadows are long and twisty. Muahaha!

  • The Little House Down the Lane – Haunted House Stories – IndyPL_KaseyP

    Be it a decrepit mansion, busted apartment complex, or secluded hotel, beware the building that looks back at you with hatred in its grubby windows! And never ever set foot inside…

  • Mysteries with a Paranormal Twist – IndyPL_MicheleP

    Things such as Tarot Cards, Angels, Psychics, Ghosts, Seances, Crystal Balls, and Talking Skeletons can be found in these mystery series. Throw off your disbelief for a short time and enjoy!

  • Sweet and Spooky Romances – IndyPL_RachelNW

    Celebrate the start of fall by reading these sweet and spooky paranormal romances. Read about werewolves, witches, ghosts, and vampires as they carve pumpkins and fall in love.

  • Witchy Mysteries – IndyPL_JessicaM

    Love mysteries and want to get in the mood for the spooky season? Enjoy these mysteries with witch protagonists and magical twists.

TV & Movies

  • A History of Horror Films – IndyPL_ChaseM

    October, more specifically the Halloween season, is a great time to celebrate horror movies and what scares us. This list explores how the definition of what scares us has changed and how culture and society influenced it.

  • If You Like Camp Upside-Down: If you like Stranger Things – IndyPL_KaseyP

    If you love this nostalgic horror phenomenon from Netflix, you know it makes 80s pop culture references galore! Here are some of the gems referencee, as well as Hawkins, IN adjacent goodies for all seasons.

  • If You Like Shaun of the Dead – IndyPL_KaseyP

    Horror Comedies can be done well. (Fair warning: Almost all of these carry an R-Rating. Please giggle responsibly.)

  • Octoberween // Books & Movies to Die For Part 2: The Spookening – IndyPL_ShainaS

    20 beloved favorites! OoooOoooooooo OOOOOOOoooooooooo

  • Terrifying Horror Films – IndyPL_JessicaL

    Beware, these films are not for the faint of heart. Perfect for having a fright night anytime of the year.

  • Zombie Comedy Films – IndyPL_TimothyV

    Some of these movies are classic. Others are classically bad. Either way, zombies can make us laugh even as they terrify us.

Extras

  • Halloween Cooking Fun – IndyPL_KathyH

    Whether you’re having a Halloween party or just want some fun treats to make for your friends or family, check out these fun Halloween cookbooks.

  • Halloween – It’s Not Just for Kids! – IndyPL_KathyH

    "There is a child in every one of us who is still a trick-or-treater looking for a brightly-lit front porch." Robert Brault #IndyPLAdults

  • Mr. & Mrs. Shelley: The Original Goth Couple – IndyPL_DanA

    When Percy was killed in a boating accident, Mary kept his petrified heart on her person and in her desk until the day she died. Learn more!

  • Spooky Scores – IndyPL_MarianneK

    Tingle your spine while tinkling the ivories with these classic chillers.

For Kids & Teens

We can assist you in finding delightful Halloween reading for both kids and teens. Our collection features a range of engaging books tailored to young readers of all ages, ensuring that they can enjoy the spooky season with captivating stories. Whether you’re looking for thrilling adventures, spooky tales, or festive Halloween-themed books, we offer a variety of options to suit every interest and reading level. As a result, you can easily discover the perfect Halloween read to match your mood and interests!

  • Fall Into Autumn with These Wonderful Books – IndyPL_ShannonO

    Fall is here! Time to get into the spirit with some autumn-themed picture books! These are great titles for story times, displays, and more!

  • Spooky Graphic Novels for Kids – IndyPL_RyanL

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

  • Octoberween // Picture Books – IndyPL_ShainaS

    Here’s a third batch of creepy cute Halloween-y picture books to warm your chilly autumn nights!

  • Books to Turn Halloween Fear into Halloween Fun! – IndyPL_Recommends_Kids

    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 turn their Halloween fears into Halloween fun!

  • If You Like Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark – IndyPL_CarrieS

    These books offer the same kind of suspense and thrills. This is a list of middle grade books for future Stephen King fans. If you get a thrill out of wondering what lurks in the closet after dark… These stories are for you!

  • Monsters Aren’t Scary – IndyPL_JessicaNS

    Not all monster books are scary! If your little one is afraid of monsters, these are some good choices to help with their fears. They’ll be laughing at monsters in no time.

  • Wholesome Halloween – IndyPL_JessicaL

    Enjoy the fun of Halloween with this family-friendly collection of videos!

  • Witchy Reads for Halloween – IndyPL_ShannonO

    Get into the Halloween season with these witch-themed books and graphic novels for kids and teens.

Keepunumuk Weeãachumun's Thanksgiving Story by Danielle Greendeer (Mashpee Wampanoag) and Tony Perry (Chickasaw), illustrated by Garry Meeches (Anishinaabe)

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? The Library can help!

Keepunumuk Weeãachumun’s Thanksgiving Story

A wonderful book to share is Keepunumuk Weeãachumun’s Thanksgiving Story by Danielle Greendeer (Mashpee Wampanoag) and Tony Perry (Chickasaw), illustrated by Garry Meeches (Anishinaabe). 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.

This Land

This Land by Ashley Fairbanks (Anishinaabe), illustrated by Bridget George (Anishinaabe)

New for 2024 is This Land by Ashley Fairbanks (Anishinaabe), illustrated by Bridget George (Anishinaabe). This Land introduces kids the concept of land acknowledgements, a formal statement that recognizes Indigenous peoples as the original stewards of land. Ashley explains that the book teaches non-Native people primarily about the history of the land and how we can keep in mind the people who came before us on the land we’re on. Hear more from Ashley and learn about the book and its development in this NPR interview. In the Notes of the book you can learn about Native Lands Digital, a website you can visit to learn more about the land you live on. Enter any address to view a map that shows which nation originally owned the land, which languages were spoken there, and which treaty took the land from that nation.

If You Lived During the Plimoth Thanksgiving

If You Lived During the Plimoth Thanksgiving by Chris Newell (citizen of Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township), illustrated by Winona Nelson (Leech Lake Band of Minnesota Chippewa)

You might also try If You Lived During the Plimoth Thanksgiving by Chris Newell (citizen of Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township), illustrated by Winona Nelson (Leech Lake Band of Minnesota Chippewa). 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.

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

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 - Bless Our PetsTitle - 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 Spider

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

Generosity & Giving

“What is given from the heart reaches the heart” ~Pat McKissack

Title - What Is Given From the HeartTitle - The Gift of the MagiTitle - Those ShoesTitle - The Giving TreeTitle - Thank You, Omu!Title - The Girl and the BicycleTitle - Out and AboutTitle - Ivy Loves to Give

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

The books, databases, websites and artifacts on this page will help you do research and answer homework questions about elections. Explore Unique Stories of the U.S. Presidents as well as The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Election Artifacts Collection.

Websites, Activities & Printables

Novelist K-8 Logo

NoveList K-8: Stories about Elections is a database you can use in any IndyPL Library Branch or at home. Login using your library card number. Novelist will show you fiction chapter books and picture books you can read about elections. Click on “Check the Library Catalog” to see if IndyPL has the book.

e-Books & Audiobooks

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

Need more 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.

Elections and Voting – 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. #indyplkids

Title - Presidential Elections and Other Cool FactsTitle - Your Voice, your VoteTitle - The WalkTitle - Black Voter SuppressionTitle - Vote for Our Future!Title - Lifting as We ClimbTitle - The Voice That Won the VoteTitle - ElectionsTitle - Stolen JusticeTitle - Give Us the Vote!Title - The KidsTitle - The Woman

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

A long, cold December night is a great time to share favorite Christmas stories! There are many holiday classics to choose from to get your family into the holiday spirit. You can listen to a video read aloud of the favorite, Llama Llama Holiday Drama, by Anna Dewdney, right now! More free video read alouds are listed below along with printable activities and Christmas favorites you can check out with your IndyPL library card. It’s Christmas storytime online! Have a wonderful holiday!

Talk!

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

  • What does your family like to do during the holidays? Which thing is your favorite?
  • Does the llama on the cover look happy? Sad? Worried?
  • Have you ever had to wait a long time for something you were excited about? Was it hard to wait? Were there any things that you did to help pass the time?
  • Would you rather go to a quiet holiday event or a noisy and crowded holiday event?
  • Why is llama happy at the end of the story?

Read!

Use your indyPL Library Card to check out books about Christmas at any of our locations, or cheeck out Christmas 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 Christmas video read aloud stories right now! It’s Christmas 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 - Charlie and the Christmas Kittytitle - A Christmas Wish for Corduroytitle - Clark the Shark Loves Christmastitle - Goodnight, Mangertitle - Ho Ho Homeworktitle - How the Grinch Stole Christmastitle - Llama Llama Holiday Dramatitle - Memoirs of An Elftitle - Merry Christmas From the Very Hungry Caterpillartitle - Merry Christmas, Mr. Mousetitle - The Nutcracker in Harlemtitle - Merry Christmas, Splattitle - Peppermint Posttitle - Merry Pinkmas!title - There's An Elf in your Booktitle - When Santa Came to Stay

Favorite, Classic & New Christmas Stories for Kids

List Cover Images - Favorite, Classic & New Christmas Stories for KidsThere are many holiday favorites to get your family in the holiday spirit from illustrated versions of the Bible to stories about family traditions to the silly antics of favorite book characters celebrating the holiday in their own unique way. Can Bad Kitty even get on Santa’s nice list? There are 25+ in all. That oughta last ya!

Sing!

Sing along with Abby, Elmo, a horse, and even some snowballs!

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!

Instead of “Simon Says” play “Santa Says.” Practice the names of body parts and left and right.

Join Us for In-Person Storytime!

  • Event: Storytime at Spades Park
  • Date & Time: Thursday, December 12, 10:30am
  • Location: Spades Park Branch
  • Description: Babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and an adult are invited to join us for stories and more every Thursday in the Community Room followed by socialization time for children and caregivers.
  • 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.

Hanukkah in Alaska, by Barbara Brown and winner of the 2014 Sydney Taylor Book Award, is the story of what Hanukkah is like for a little girl living during a long, cold Alaskan winter. For her, daylight only lasts for five hours each day and she doesn’t have squirrels or rabbits in her backyard, she has a moose! Can she convince the moose to leave her trees and swing alone by sharing a Hanukkah treat? You can listen to Hanukkah in Alaska right now, read aloud by Molly Ephraim. Enjoy Hanukkah storytime online!

Talk!

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

  • What animals do you think live in Alaska?
  • Why do people in Alaska have to look out for moose? What should they do if they come across one?
  • There is only five hours of daylight in Alaska in the winter. Would you like it to be dark that much?
  • What do they call everywhere else that is not Alaska?
  • What does the moose do in the backyard?
  • What things does she try to get the moose to leave?
  • What holiday is the family celebrating?
  • What do they see up in the sky?

Read!

Use your indyPL Library Card to check out books about Hanukkah at any of our locations, or check out Hanukkah 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 Hanukkah video read aloud stories right now! It’s Hanukkah 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 - All-of-a-kind Family Hanukkahtitle - Antlers With Candlestitle - Biscuit's Hanukkahtitle - Meet the Latkes

Stories for Hanukkah to Check Out with your IndyPL Library Card

List Cover Images - 8 Nights of Bedtime Stories for HanukkahHere are 50+ wonderful Hanukkah stories – so many you can read more than one each night! These selections come from The Sydney Taylor Book Award that recognizes the best Jewish children’s books each year, as well as the PJ Library, and the Association of Jewish Libraries.

Sing!

Join Robert and the Theatre Troupe at the Miami Children’s Museum to learn about Hanukkah traditions, “the festival of lights”, and the dreidel – then sing along with them to celebrate!

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!

Make a glowing pathway to lead visitors to your Menorah, build a Lego dreidel and play a game with your friends or family, or make this DIY Menorah Craft Using Cardboard.

Join Us for In-Person Storytime!

  • Event: Storytime at Spades Park
  • Date & Time: Thursday, December 12, 10:30am
  • Location: Spades Park Branch
  • Description: Babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and an adult are invited to join us for stories and more every Thursday in the Community Room followed by socialization time for children and caregivers.
  • 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.

The Snowy Day, published in 1962, has been a wintertime favorite for more than 50 years. It is the story of a small boy exploring his neighborhood on a snowy day. The story captures all the wonderful things experienced with all five senses when we wake up to a snow-covered morning. In the city, in the country, on a school day, or a snow day-off day, fresh snow is a thrilling experience! You can listen right now to this animated version of The Snow Day expertly and wonderfully read aloud by composer, poet, and artist, Napoleon Maddox. You can learn more about this storytime classic in A Poem for Peter: the Story of Ezra Jack Keats and the Creation of the Snow Day. Enjoy winter storytime online!

Talk!

After listening to the winter storytime online, talk about some of the things that happened in it.

  • When Peter went out into the snow, what were some of the things he did to have fun?
  • What happened to the snowball that Peter put in his pocket to save for the next day?
  • When Peter went to sleep, what did he dream? Did his dream come true?
  • If there was a snow storm here, what would you like to do?

Read!

Use your indyPL Library Card to check out books about winter at any of our locations, or check out winter 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 winter video read aloud stories right now! It’s winter 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 - Just Snow Already!title - Baby Penguins Everywheretitle - Blank Entrytitle - Henry Holton Takes the Icetitle - Hoot and Peeptitle - Blank Entrytitle - Little Owl's Snowtitle - Max and Marlatitle - The Mittentitle - The Night Before the Snow Daytitle - Snow Much Fun!title - The Snowy Day

It’s Cold, But It’s Snow Much Fun! Winter Favorites for Kids to Check Out with your IndyPL Library Card

List Cover Images - ItIt’s true, there’s no day like a snow day! Go out and play, and then cuddle up with some hot chocolate and a stack of these favorite winter tales.

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 winter 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 explore the IndyPL Pinterest Board: Winter – lots of ideas for crafts and activities!

Join Us for In-Person Storytime!

  • Event: Storytime at Spades Park
  • Date & Time: Thursday, December 12, 10:30am
  • Location: Spades Park Branch
  • Description: Babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and an adult are invited to join us for stories and more every Thursday in the Community Room followed by socialization time for children and caregivers.
  • 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.

Kwanzaa is a celebration that honors African heritage. Observed from December 26th to January 1st, it includes a feast on December 31st called Karamu. Kwanzaa celebrations include singing, dancing, storytelling and African drums. To learn more about the holiday’s roots in ancient African customs and how it is celebrated, watch the PBS Learning Media video All About the Holidays: Kwanzaa and this Sesame Street video during which a family shares how they celebrate together.

Listen together as author Ibi Zoboi reads aloud, The People Remember, with illustrations by Loveis Wise. It uses the seven principles of Kwanzaa called Nguzo Saba, to share the history of African descendants in America from the time their ancestors arrived in America to the present day. The seven principles are:

1. Umoja (Unity)
2. Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
3. Ujima (Responsibility)
4. Ujamaa (Cooperative economics)
5. Nia (Purpose)
6. Kuumba (Creativity)
7. Imani (Faith)

You can also listen to author Donna L Washington read Li’l Rabbit’s Kwanzaa, a story that introduces the holiday and celebrates its true meaning – coming together to help others.

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.

Books for Kids About Kwanzaa and Nguzo Saba to Check Out with your IndyPL Library Card

Use your IndyPL library card to check out e-books, audiobooks, and other streaming content about Kwanzaa from home, right to your device. See our digital Kwanzaa collection from OverDrive Kids, or come visit us! Below is a selection of books for kids to help you get started!

Title - The Night Before KwanzaaTitle - KwanzaaTitle - Celebrating KwanzaaTitle - The People RememberTitle - KwanzaaTitle - Seven Spools of ThreadTitle - My First KwanzaaTitle - Habari Gani? WhatTitle - KwanzaaTitle - LiTitle - Kwanzaa KaramuTitle - The Sound of Kwanzaa

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.