Category: Reading Recommendations

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!

For Adults
Best of Biographies & Memoirs
Best of DVDs
Best of Fiction
Best of Historical Fiction
Best of Lifestyle
Best of Nonfiction
Best of Romance
Best of Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Best of Suspense

For Kids & Teens
Best of Beginning and Early Readers
Best of Fiction for Kids
Best of Graphic Novels for Kids
Best of Nonfiction for Kids
Best of Picture Books
Best of Teen

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.

Cozy Science Fiction and Fantasy

January 12th is Hot Tea Day! Celebrate with a science fiction or fantasy novel with a “cozy feeling”. Less (but not always no) saving the world, more sipping tea in the Shire. The vibe is light, the endings are happy, and and if violence occurs it’s rarely graphic and the romance is often sweet.

Light Reads to Combat Early Sunsets

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

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

Tags What We're Reading

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

Staff Picks for Kids & Teens

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!

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!

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!

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!

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 Miss

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.

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 - 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).

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.

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.

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 - 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.)

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 - Amari And The Despicable Wonders

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.

collage of historical fiction book covers including "Sacrificio," "Lavender House," "Siren Queen," "The Rib King," and more.

If you enjoy reading about characters living in a different time or navigating real historical events, here are some tips to help you find your next historical fiction read! Browse award winners, get recommendations from our staff, or make a selection from our list of historical fiction authors linked directly to our catalog, so you can conveniently place holds and check item availability. You might also find reading suggestions at If You Like Historical Romance.

Find award winners.

The Walter Scott Prize recognizes historical fiction novels published in the last year. Browse the Walter Scott Prize award winners.
The Society of American Historians awards a Prize for historical fiction every other year. View the Society of American Historians award and past winners.
The Crime Writers’ Association awards the Historical Dagger for a historical crime novel published in the last year in the UK in English.
Make a selection from the Goodreads Readers’ Favorite Historical Fiction of 2024.

Awards for Young Adult and Children’s Historical Fiction:

Get reading recommendations from our staff.

Staff Picks 2024 – 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!

Adults:

Kids:

Use your library card to access NoveList Plus.

Find reading recommendations, read-alikes, reviews, and lists of award-winning books on the book database NoveList Plus, which is free to access with your library card!

On the left side of the NoveList homepage, select “Historical Fiction” to view lists of recommended reads. Or, select “Browse By” at the top of the site and choose “Genre,” then select “historical fiction” from the drop-down menu to browse new and popular picks.

When viewing a title in NoveList Plus, you can read a brief description of the book and see reviews. Click “Check availability” to see if the book is available to borrow.

Subscribe to the historical fiction newsletter from NextReads.

Receive a monthly list of historical fiction books in your email. Listed books are linked to the Indianapolis Public Library catalog, so it’s easy to place a hold on anything that catches your eye. See a sample issue of the historical fiction list or sign up for NextReads newsletters.

Make a selection from one of these historical fiction authors.

Upcoming Author Talks & Book Discussions

Event: WitLITS Book Discussion Group
Date & Time: Friday, December 27, 10:00am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading.
No Registration Required.

Event: Tween Graphic Novel Book Club
Date & Time: Saturday, January 04, 2:00pm
Location: Lawrence Branch
Description: Join the Tween Graphic Novel Book Club as we share our thoughts on this month’s read, “Lo and Behold.” Children ages 9-12 are invited to attend and new members are always welcome!
Register Here

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book we will be reading and discussing is “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. Pick up a copy at Martindale-Brightwood today! Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame” by Olivia Ford. Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program, which is free and open to everyone!
No Registration Required.

Event: Franklin Road Book Discussion
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 6:30pm
Location: Franklin Road Branch
Description: Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program. The title for January is “Hercule Poirot’s Christmas” by Agatha Christie.
No Registration Required.

Need more 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.

Tags If You Like

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 Books: Books for Hoosiers Hoping to Make a Difference

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

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

February 1
Meet the Artists
(Kimberly Brown)

January 18
Biographies and Memoirs
(Liz Schoettle)
Featured Books: Biographies & Memoirs

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

2022

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

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

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

October 20
Book Recommendations (Rachel Wood)

September 28
Introduction to Kadir Nelson (Shael Weidenbach)
Featured Books: Kadir Nelson

August 31
Let’s Get Down to Business (Alexandra Loewen)
Featured Books: Books 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 Books: Good Reads About Money

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

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

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

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

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

May 1
Adult Summer Reading Program (Leah Kim)
Featured Books: Books 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 Books: Local Black Authors

March 16
Music Related (Rachel Wood)
Featured Books: Music-Related Reads

March 2
True Crime (Shelby Graam)
Featured Books: True Crime and Thrillers

February 16
Love Stories for February (Kirsten Weaver)
Featured Books: YA Love Stories

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

Find a book discussion near you!

Event: WitLITS Book Discussion Group
Date & Time: Friday, December 27, 10:00am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book we will be reading and discussing is “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. Pick up a copy at Martindale-Brightwood today! Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame” by Olivia Ford. Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program, which is free and open to everyone!
No Registration Required.

Tags What We're Reading

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.

Browse the Indigenous Collection from Kanopy. If you have never borrowed from Kanopy before here are some directions and a video tutorial.
Browse the Native American Heritage Month Selection from Hoopla. If you have never borrowed from Hoopla before directions are available as well as a video tutorial.

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:

First Nations Native American Children’s Books Recommended Reading List
National Indian Education Association Recommended K-12 Reading List
American Indian Library Association Youth Literature Award
How to Choose Excellent Children’s Books By and About American Indians by Dr. Debbie Reese, American Indians in Children’s Literature (AICL)

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

Tags Authors, Indigenous

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

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

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.

Tags Holidays & Seasons

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

The National World War II Museum: World War II Reads – Memoirs
Two members of the Institute for the Study of War and Democracy selected their four “can’t miss” WWII memoirs. One of the four selections is by Indiana’s own Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and war correspondent, Ernie Pyle.

1. Ernie Pyle in England by Ernie Pyle
2. Helmet for My Pillow From Parris Island to the Pacific by Robert Leckie
3. With the Old Breed at Peleliu and Okinawa by E.B. Sledge
4. If You Survive by George Wilson
Marine Corps. Commandant’s Professional Reading List
This is a list of required annual reading for all officer and enlisted Marines, whether active duty or reserve.
DOD Reads
While not affiliated with the US government or the Department of Defense, DOD Reads is a veteran run organization for readers in the military. Listen to the founder’s story.
The Library of Congress Free to Use and Reuse: Veterans Collection
Features photos, sheet music, letters, films and more from American veterans throughout history.

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

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 - Soldier, Sailor, Frogman, Spy, Airman, Gangster, Kill or Die

Tags Holidays & Seasons

6 Ways to Find Your Next Terrifying Read

1. Read an award winner.

Given out yearly since 1988, The Bram Stoker Awards® are the premiere awards for outstanding writing presented by the Horror Writers Association. To place convenient requests in our catalog, see all of the Bram Stoker Award winners in our collection.

2. Borrow e-books, downloadable audiobooks, or movies.

Here are some quick links to fiction & films you can borrow with your IndyPL library card.

If you have never borrowed from OverDrive before both OverDrive app directions and OverDrive browser directions are available. Additionally, you can watch an OverDrive video tutorial or consult with Overdrive Support. If you have never borrowed from Kanopy before here are some Kanopy directions and a Kanopy video tutorial.

Need more 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.

3. Get reading recommendations from IndyPL staff.

Click on our featured lists or browse through all of our horror staff lists.

Staff Picks 2024- Best of Suspense

4. Make a selection from this list of horror authors

5. Subscribe to the horror newsletter from NextReads

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

6. 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 books. Once you login, choose the a category from the list on the left which includes choices like “Blood-drenched,” “Creature Feature,” “Creepy Clowns & Bad Seeds,” and more! Click on a book to read a brief description, see a star rating, and “Check Availability” to see if it the book is available to borrow from IndyPL.

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: WitLITS Book Discussion Group
Date & Time: Friday, December 27, 10:00am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book we will be reading and discussing is “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. Pick up a copy at Martindale-Brightwood today! Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame” by Olivia Ford. Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program, which is free and open to everyone!
No Registration Required.

Need more help?

Tags Horror, If You Like

Join our virtual author talks to enjoy conversation with the authors behind your favorite books from the comfort of home. What questions have you always wanted to ask? Submit your questions online. We will also take questions during the event and will cover as many questions as time allows! Browse our archive of past virtual author talks for even more insightful discussions.

Event: Virtual Author Talk: The Magic of Found Family
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 15, 7:00pm
Location: Online
Description: Come have a magical moment with New York Times bestselling author TJ Klune as he chats about his Cerulean Chronicles, with special emphasis on his newest in the series, “Somewhere Beyond the Sea.”
Register Here

Event: Virtual Author Talk: Notes on Modern Irrationality
Date & Time: Thursday, January 23, 2:00pm
Location: Online
Description: Join us as we chat with the New York Times bestselling author, Amanda Montell about her newest book, “The Age of Magical Overthinking: Notes on Modern Irrationality.”
Register Here

Event: Virtual Author Talk: An Inside Look at Working with a Literary Agent
Date & Time: Tuesday, January 28, 1:00pm
Location: Online
Description: You’re writing a book (or thinking about it), but what happens next? Join us for an inside look into working with an agent and the beginning stages of the publishing process with Seth Fishman, Vice President and Literary Agent at The Gernert Company.
Register Here

Event: Virtual Author Talk: How We Create Pandemics, From Our Bodies to Our Beliefs
Date & Time: Tuesday, February 04, 2:00pm
Location: Online
Description: Join us for this enlightening presentation with Smithsonian curator Sabrina Sholts as she talks about how the very fact of being human increases our pandemic risks—and gives us the power to save ourselves.
Register Here

Event: Virtual Author Talk: Dystopian Tropes from an Indigenous Perspective
Date & Time: Tuesday, February 11, 7:00pm
Location: Online
Description: You’re invited to a riveting conversation with bestselling author Waubgeshig Rice to chat about his newest book “Moon of the Turning Leaves,” the highly anticipated sequel to the bestselling novel “Moon of the Crusted Snow.”
Register Here

Event: Virtual Author Talk: I Am Nobody’s Slave
Date & Time: Tuesday, February 18, 2:00pm
Location: Online
Description: We welcome you to our conversation with journalist and author Lee Hawkins as he talks to us about the examination of his family’s legacy of post-enslavement trauma and resilience in this riveting memoir, “I Am Nobody’s Slave: How Uncovering My Family’s History Set Me Free.”
Register Here

Event: Virtual Author Talk: The Power of Reset and How to Change What’s Not Working
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 12, 2:00pm
Location: Online
Description: Are you ready for a revolutionary guide to fixing what’s not working—in systems, organizations and companies, and even in our daily lives? Join us for an enlightening conversation with bestselling author Dan Heath as he talks with us about his newest book, Reset: How to Change What’s Not Working.
Register Here

Event: Virtual Author Talk: How Women’s Liberation Transformed America
Date & Time: Thursday, March 20, 2:00pm
Location: Online
Description: Join us for a transformative conversation with award-winning journalist and author, Clara Bingham, as she chats with us about her new book, The Movement: How Women’s Liberation Transformed America, 1963-1973.
Register Here

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 talkin

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.

Tags If You Like, What We're Reading

“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

“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.

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?

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

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.

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-books, audiobooks, music, movies, 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:

2024 Author and Illustrator Winner Mexikid a Graphic Memoir by Pedro Martin
2024 Young Adult Author Award Winner Saints of the Household by Ari Tison.
2023 Author Winner Frizzy by Claribel A. Ortega
2023 Illustrator Winner Where Wonder Grows by Xelena Gonzalez
2022 Author Winner The Last Storyteller by Donna Barba Higuera
2022 Illustrator Winner Come On! Let’s Cross the Bridge by Raúl the Third
2021 Author Winner Efren Divided by Ernesto Cisneros
2021 Illustrator Winner Come On! Let’s Go Eat by Raúl the Third

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!

Tags Authors, Hispanic/Latino

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!

Event: WitLITS Book Discussion Group
Date & Time: Friday, December 27, 10:00am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book we will be reading and discussing is “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. Pick up a copy at Martindale-Brightwood today! Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame” by Olivia Ford. Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program, which is free and open to everyone!
No Registration Required.

Need help?

Tags If You Like, Religion

e-Books & Audiobooks

Browse OverDrive’s Amish and Mennonite fiction collection of e-books and downloadable audiobooks you can borrow with your IndyPL library card.

Amish & Mennonite Fiction Authors

Find a book discussion near you!

Event: WitLITS Book Discussion Group
Date & Time: Friday, December 27, 10:00am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book we will be reading and discussing is “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. Pick up a copy at Martindale-Brightwood today! Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame” by Olivia Ford. Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program, which is free and open to everyone!
No Registration Required.

Need help?

Tags If You Like, Religion

In hard times and in stressful times, reading does not solve all of our concerns and worries, but it can help. Here are some of the ways we are using books to get through this tough period.

I just can’t focus…how am I supposed to read?

Listen, we hear you. When our attention spans are exactly the length of one tik-tok video, we use these tips to get back into reading.

Picture books aren’t just for kids.

Reading something that is beautifully illustrated and has fewer words per page helps us to get our minds re-engaged. Check out some of our suggestions:

Try a new genre.

We tend to have go-to genres but when we are stressed or tired, we might try a new subject or type of book to engage our brains differently. Here are some picks by genre:

Switch how you are reading.

Perhaps you only read print books? Try to read an e-book or explore an audiobook. Or have you only read on a Kindle for the last couple of years? Try listening to an audiobook through your phone or pick up a print book through our curbside pickup.

Reread a favorite.

Our librarian Carri says, “I like to reread books I’ve loved in the past. Mostly giant fantasy epics or other series where I feel like I know the characters well.”

“Reading has been an escape for me — but I am choosing books that allow me to escape because that’s what I need right now.” – Crystal, Library patron

Stop the Scroll

Numerous studies have proven that the more time that we spend on social media, the more we tend to be anxious. We are too distracted by every notification on our cell phones, every text message vibration, or email alert. How many hours have you spent this week aimlessly surfing social media? We don’t want to incriminate ourselves but we’re pretty sure our weekly screen time report could be included as evidence in a trial on why our brains can’t stay focused on one task. Use these tips to help curtail your scrolling time (except the Library’s social media- you should definitely be following us).

Before bed, instead of logging onto social media to doomscroll, open up the Libby App and dive into an e-book instead of going down an anxiety rabbit hole.
Waiting in a line or before an appointment? Carry a book on you and instead of grabbing your cell phone, grab the book instead. We especially like to carry an e-reader on us since they give us endless possibilities for reading.
Swap out your internet browsing time for an educational app instead. Rebuild those lost foreign language skills with Mango Languages, build new skills with LinkedIn Learning, or watch a craft tutorial on Creativebug and then make it. All free with your library card.

“Reading is a learning adventure and escape. When I discover a new author and I really like them I read more of their books and then I also want to find out more about that author” – Theresa, Librarian

Books Can Help Us Feel and Help Us Start Conversations

Books can help us feel different. We turn to books when we want a good laugh or when we want a good cry. Books can help us to express the feelings that we want to feel but more importantly, they can help us to express the feelings that we need to feel.

Books can help us escape. When the days feel long and the wind chill is Arctic, escape to a sunny paradise or get lost on an island. Travel the world or explore a new galaxy without ever leaving your couch or treadmill.

Reading can help us start conversations with friends, family members, and medical professionals. If how you or a loved one is feeling right now is more than the pandemic-blahs, reading can be a way to start a discussion or go into a doctor’s appointment with more information. Reading helps us gain knowledge but also empathy. Here are just a few of the lists that the IndyPL staff has put together on health and wellness:

Tags Mental Health

1. Read an award winner.

If you like fantasy here are several awards that are good sources for finding outstanding novels, short stories, or anthologies.

The Nebula Awards are presented each year for the best science fiction or fantasy published in the United States during the previous year. Browse Nebula Award winners in our collection.
The Hugo Awards are presented each year by the World Science Fiction Society. Browse Hugo Award winners in our collection.
The World Fantasy Awards are presented annually by the World Fantasy Convention to writers of fiction. Browse World Fantasy Award winners in our collection.
The Ignyte Awards are presented by FIYAH Literary Magazine and are intended to celebrate excellent Speculative Fiction written by people of color.

2. Borrow e-books, downloadable audiobooks & movies.

Here are some short cut links to easily borrow materials online with your IndyPL library card. If you have never borrowed from OverDrive before or used OverDrive’s Libby app, both Overdrive/Libby app directions and OverDrive browser directions are available as well as an OverDrive video tutorial and Overdrive Support. If you have never borrowed from Kanopy before, you can get Kanopy directions.

3. Get reading recommendations from IndyPL staff.

Click on a featured booklist to get reading recommendations or see all our staff fantasy book lists.

Staff Picks 2024- Best of Sci-Fi/Fantasy

4. Make a Selection from these authors.

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

Find reading recommendations, read-alikes, series lists, reviews, and lists of award-winning books on Novelist Plus. Once you login with your IndyPL library card, choose the “Fantasy” category from the list on the left.

Here is a sample recommendation. When you click on a book you can read a brief description, see a star rating, and click “Check Availability” to see if it is available to borrow from IndyPL.

6. Subscribe to the Fantasy newsletter from NextReads.

Receive fantasy reading recommendation in your inbox monthly. Book suggestions are linked to our catalog for easy requesting. It’s FREE! See a ample issue or Subscribe to NextReads!

7. Find a book discussion near you!

Event: WitLITS Book Discussion Group
Date & Time: Friday, December 27, 10:00am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book we will be reading and discussing is “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. Pick up a copy at Martindale-Brightwood today! Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame” by Olivia Ford. Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program, which is free and open to everyone!
No Registration Required.

Need help?

Tags Fantasy, If You Like

If you like mysteries, browse these tips and tricks for finding your next mysterious read. There is a huge amount of variation within the genre from true crime to the supernatural, thriller, or romance. A mystery fits any reading taste!

1. Read an award winner.

The Agatha Awards celebrate traditional mysteries, a genre defined as mysteries that contain no explicit sex, excessive gore, or gratuitous violence. To place convenient requests in our catalog, browse all of the Agatha Award winners in our collection browse all of the Agatha Award winners in our collection.

The Anthony Awards for mystery writers are announced at the Bouchercon World Mystery Convention. To place convenient requests in our catalog, browse all of the Anthony Award winners in our collection browse all of the Anthony Award winners in our collection.

2. Borrow e-books or downloadable audiobooks.

Use mystery lists from OverDrive to find e-books and downloadable audiobooks. If you have never borrowed from OverDrive before, both OverDrive/Libby app directions and OverDrive browser directions are available as well as an OverDrive video tutorial and Overdrive Support.

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.

3. Get reading recommendations from IndyPL staff.

Click on a featured book list to get mystery reading recommendations. Browse all our staff mystery lists or see our If You Like Cozy Mysteries recommendations.

Mysteries for Teens:

Mysteries for Kids:

Staff Picks 2024- Best of Suspense

4. Make a selection from this list of mystery authors.

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

Find mystery reading recommendations, read-alikes, series lists, reviews, and lists of award-winning mystery books on Novelist Plus. First, login, then choose the “Mystery” category from the list on the left. Choose from categories like like “Standalone Mysteries,” “Police Procedurals,” “Historical Mysteries,” and more! Read a brief description, see a star rating, and select “Check Availability” to see if the book is available to borrow from IndyPL.

6. Look online for more reading suggestions.

Our staff suggests these sites for mystery readers.

Novelsuspects.com is great for fans of mysteries, thrillers, and true crime. There you’ll find book lists, essays, reviews, and more.
On Mysteryfile.com read daily reviews of both books and media.
On Stopyourekillingme.com browse reviews or thousands of authors sorted by series or explore by setting or the sleuth’s occupation.
Crimereads.com really lets you drill down to your mystery flavor of choice: noir, suspense, legal thriller, etc.

7. Subscribe to the mystery newsletter from NextReads.

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

8. Find a book discussion near you!

Event: WitLITS Book Discussion Group
Date & Time: Friday, December 27, 10:00am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book we will be reading and discussing is “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. Pick up a copy at Martindale-Brightwood today! Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame” by Olivia Ford. Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program, which is free and open to everyone!
No Registration Required.

Tags If You Like, Mysteries

That’s it… the geeks have finally won! No longer relegated to drug-store paperback spinner racks, the science fiction genre is undergoing a huge cultural surge right now, and we have the books, movies, television shows, and graphic novels to prove it! If you like science fiction, we have the content at the Library to keep you satisfied and Indianapolis has several unique resources and conventions to keep you entertained all year round. You might also like If You Like Fantasy.

Science Fiction Book Group at Central Library

Embark on interstellar journeys of imagination with Ad Astra, Central Library’s science fiction book group. Explore distant galaxies, encounter alien civilizations, and unravel the mysteries of the cosmos. Join us for an out-of-this-world reading experience! See the schedule.

Science Fiction Book Awards

Explore the best of science fiction and fantasy by checking out the Hugo and Nebula Awards. The Hugos are voted on by fans, while the Nebulas are chosen by authors, offering a unique blend of popular and professional recognition. Discover groundbreaking novels, short stories, and novellas that have shaped the landscape of speculative fiction and are celebrated by both readers and creators alike.

Reading Recommendations from IndyPL Staff

Click on a featured booklist to get science reading recommendations or see all our staff science fiction lists.

In addition to books of science fiction and fantasy, the library also has many great works about science fiction and fantasy. This list of general reference science fiction resources will help you find your next series, keep you up to date on the latest short fiction, or help you while away the hours learning about the books and movies you love.

Staff Picks 2024- Best of Sci-Fi/Fantasy

Science Fiction Authors

Indianapolis Science Fiction Resources

The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library is in the process of renovating their new building, and is currently operating a pop-up shop in the Circle Center Mall downtown.
The Center for Ray Bradbury Studies is another extraordinary resource we are lucky to have in our city. The Center contains tons of Bradbury resources, including manuscripts, drafts, notes, correspondence, recordings, personal artifacts such as his personal typewriters, photographs, and more.
If you don’t mind a short road trip, head southwest to hit up the Who North America store in Camby, Indiana. Not only do they sell Dr. Who related merchandise, they have a museum of Dr. Who memorabilia, some items dating from when the show began in the UK over 50 years ago. There is a rumor that they even have a Dr. Who pinball machine. A must for any Whovian!

Science Fiction and Fantasy Conventions

Looking to have some fun and meet other fans of science fiction and fantasy? Indianapolis is home to many gatherings of fans from all over the globe.

If you are purely interested in fiction you might want to try InConJunction, a local science fiction and fantasy convention put on and run by fans. Past guests include George RR Martin, Timothy Zahn, Tobias Buckell, and Mercedes Lackey.
GenCon hosts some amazing authors thanks to their Writer’s Symposium series. Robin Hobb, Cherie Priest, Scott Lynch, Elizabeth Hand, Patrick Rothfuss, John Scalzi, Jo Walton, and Brandon Sanderson have all made appearances there.
If you are more interested in science fiction and fantasy television and movies, then save up for Indy Popcon and the Indiana Comic Convention! Both conventions feature panels about varied topics and includes visits from some of your favorite actors and creators.

Online Science Fiction and Fantasy Resources

If you would rather stay at home there are luckily several places on the internet (beyond Goodreads and Twitter) that encourage reasoned discussion on all things fantastical or futuristic.

Reactor Magazine (formerly Tor.com) is a go-to hub for science fiction and fantasy fans. It offers insightful commentary on beloved series, essays by prominent authors, and a vast collection of free original short fiction. You can also connect with a community of like-minded readers.
Locus magazine is considered the trade magazine for the science fiction, fantasy, and horror field. It has everything from exhaustive lists of new releases, to author interviews, reports on conferences, writing workshops, industry events, and award ceremonies. Pages and pages of book reviews every month ensure you will never miss out on the best new thing.
Fantastic Fiction is the perfect site if you are looking for the full bibliography of an author you are reading. With lists organized neatly and easily into series and links from author to their pseudonyms, it is an easy and quick way to find that next book.
Lastly, Novelist is the place librarians go to help someone find their next favorite book to read – and you can use it to! You will just need a valid Indianapolis Public Library card number. Type in an author or book you enjoy and the database will generate lists of similar books or authors you may enjoy, based either on expert recommendations or similar appeal factors.

Use your IndyPL Library card to login to Novelist Plus

On Novelist Plus you’ll find science fiction reading recommendations, read-alikes, series lists, reviews, and lists of award-winning science fiction books. Once you login, choose the “Science Fiction” category from the list on the left which includes choices like “Alternate Histories,” “Apocalyptic and Dystopian Fiction,” and more! Click on a book to read a brief description, see a star rating, or click “Check Availability” to see if the book is available to borrow from IndyPL.

Science Fiction Newsletter from NextReads

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

Find a book discussion near you!

Event: WitLITS Book Discussion Group
Date & Time: Friday, December 27, 10:00am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book we will be reading and discussing is “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. Pick up a copy at Martindale-Brightwood today! Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne
Date & Time: Monday, January 06, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Mrs. Quinn’s Rise to Fame” by Olivia Ford. Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program, which is free and open to everyone!
No Registration Required.

Need more help?

These are just some of the many resources available to Nap-town residents. Be sure to check the library’s website periodically for events, author signings, and new titles. And may the nerds continue to reign supreme for a long time to come!

Tags If You Like, Science Fiction

Here are five tips to help you explore voices of the LGBTQ+ experience as well as a convenient clickable list of LGBTQ+ authors linked directly to our catalog for placing requests or checking out e-books and audiobooks. If you need help finding books by LGBTQ+ authors, we can help!

1. Read an award winner.

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

Awarded since 1971, The Stonewall Book Award goes to books of exceptional merit relating to the gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender experience. See the Stonewall Award winners in our catalog.

The Lambda Literary Awards (or “Lammys”) have been awarded for more than 30 years. The Lammys are given in 24 categories celebrating LGBTQ storytelling. See the Lambda Literary Award winners in our catalog.

2. Borrow e-books or downloadable audiobooks.

Browse OverDrive’s LGBTQIA+ collections of e-books and downloadable audiobooks.

If you have never borrowed from OverDrive or the OverDrive Libby app before, both OverDrive browser directions and Libby app directions are available as well as an OverDrive video tutorial and Overdrive/Libby Support.

3. Get reading recommendations from IndyPL staff.

LGBTQ+ Graphic Novels

Graphic novels where LGBTQ+ characters and themes are relevant to the plot.

Title - My Lesbian Experience With Loneliness

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

Novelist Plus makes finding books by LGBTQ+ authors easier. Browse recommendations, read-alikes, series lists, reviews, and lists of award-winning books all by LGBTQ+ authors on Novelist. Browse the LGBTQIA category to see sample and see listings that show a star rating and the option to “Check Availability” to see if a book is available to borrow from IndyPL. When you click on a book you can read a brief description and get ideas for read alikes.

5. Subscribe to the Rainbow Reads newsletter from NextReads.

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

LGBTQ+ Adult Authors

LGBTQ+ Teen Authors

LGBTQ+ Childrens Authors

Carlos Aponte
Christine Baldacchino
Kacen Callender
Kirstin Cronn-Mills
Deborah Ellis
Brian Farrey

Alex Gino
James Howe
Liz Kessler
Arnold Lobel
Ann M. Martin
Hannah Moskowitz

Leslea Newman
Gayle Pitman
Maurice Sendak
Ken Setterington
Cory Silverberg

Tags Authors, LGBTQ+