Blog Home

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!

Personalized Reading Recommendations
Whether you are in a reading frenzy or a reading slump, you might just need a short list of title suggestions to support your reading habit or to get inspired. Hoosier Next Read is a personalized book recommendation service from The Indianapolis Public Library. Share your reading preferences, and our Library staff will send you a custom list of 2–5 titles within 7 business days so you’ll always have your next great read ready.

Sunday Nights on Facebook
Join us on Sunday nights at 8:30 p.m. 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.

Indy Now Book Club
Catch book recommendations and Library program highlights from your own local librarians once a month on the Indy Now Morning Show with Ryan and Jillian on Fox59. The show airs at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays. Browse our past appearances.

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.

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.

2025 Staff Picks & Gift Guide

Explore our 2025 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. Whether you’re searching for engaging books, entertaining media, or thoughtful gifts, our 2025 Staff Picks & Gift Guide offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Staff Picks

2025 This Year in Books

Are you ready to wrap up 2025 yet? It’s been a doozy of a year for many of us, so let’s take a look back at some of the biggest events of the year and take time to reflect. There are some good things (or at least interesting things) that happened, too! Check out related reading, including histories, biographies, journalism, and a few novels. And the list ends with a tribute to a optimism and hope. Cheers to a new year!

Advent Devotionals

Advent/Nativity/Annunciation is a season in the Christian tradition that typically spans the four to six week period before Christmas. It is often considered a time for reflection and preparation. Though denominations/traditions vary in their specific practices and names for the season, many use devotionals to focus the intent of their actions and meditations. This list is a small selection of available devotionals, geared towards individuals, families, and/or groups.

Bound Together: Adult Books Celebrating Umoja (Unity)

Umoja, the first principle of Kwanzaa, calls us to honor the strength of unity — within families, communities, and across humanity. These books, spanning fiction, memoir, history, and cultural critique, remind us that we are strongest when we stand together. Each title explores how bonds of solidarity, shared struggle, and collective vision can transform lives and societies.

The Conscientious Consumer

As Black Friday looms ahead (and don’t forget about Small Business Saturday, too!), let’s consider alternative ways of being a consumer in our consumerist society. These books provide ideas on how to buy less stuff and *why* to buy less stuff. Take a look and consider trying one or two (or more!) suggestions to work towards more sustainability and ethics in your consumer habits.

The Constitution and Bill of Rights in Graphic (Meaning Illustrated) Detail

Did you know that Bill of Rights Day is celebrated December 15th? It commemorates the 1791 ratification of the first ten amendments to the US Constitution. Reading a document from centuries ago, even one so important, might feel like a heavy load. As with any item that’s “inspired by a true story,” you may be inspired to fact-check!

Title - The Cartoon History of the Modern World

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.

Holiday Ho-Ho-Horror and Hauntings

It’s beginning to look a lot like… horror? If you’re not ready for Halloween to be over, unwrap the gift of spookiness during the holidays! Hide under the covers to warm up with one of these chilling holiday horror fiction titles and celebrate the ghoul-tide season.

Title - Lucky Girl, How I Became A Horror Writer

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!

I Read Every Charles Dickens Novel in Order

Charles Dickens wrote five perfect, timeless masterpieces; two bad books; and nine novels that lie somewhere in-between. With so many titles to choose from, it can be difficult for the uninitiated to find a trailhead into the world of Dickens. I spent the last ten months reading all 14 of Dickens’s novels to better guide readers through this strange and lovely domain. If you are looking for a place to start with Charles Dickens, my recommendation is simple. If it is December, read A Christmas Carol. If it is any other month, you should read Great Expectations, A Tale of Two Cities, David Copperfield, or Oliver Twist. I will be assigning the novels into three tiers: Perfect Masterpieces (*), Good to great (+), and not recommended (-).

Learn More: Nuclear Power

Nuclear energy both deeply intrigues and deeply terrifies me. I’ve been reading Marco Visscher’s “The Power of Nuclear” to understand the various contexts and histories surrounding this energy source — one that is poised to redefine and transform the global energy paradigm. Here are some more titles that you can explore too.

Light, Legacy, and Learning: Nonfiction Reads for Kwanzaa and the New Year

Kwanzaa invites reflection, renewal, and connection—seven days devoted to the principles that strengthen community and spirit. As one year ends and another begins, these nonfiction reads celebrate Black history, culture, creativity, resilience, and unity. Perfect for thoughtful evenings, family discussions, and envisioning what you’ll build together in the year ahead.

Light Reads to Combat Early Sunsets

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

Making Together Collaborative Collage

Gina Lee Robbins and Vanessa Monfreda are artists and friends who are practiced in leading bilingual, therapeutic art-making experiences. Join them for Making Together: Collaborative Collage Book, in branches throughout 2026. See the Making Together Schedule.

Title - 30 Collage Exercises to Improve your Technique

Title - The Artist Who Painted A Blue Horse

Remembering Alice Wong (1974-2025)

On November 14th, disability rights activist Alice Wong passed away at the age of 51. She was born in Indianapolis and graduated from Indiana University – Purdue University Indianapolis with a BA in English and sociology (and went on to get a master’s in medical sociology from the University of California). She published several books — a memoir about her own experiences and several anthologies that featured stories and essays from other disabled voices. She founded The Disability Visibility Project, an online community dedicated to creating, sharing, and amplifying disability media and culture. Wong was a huge presence and mentor in the disability advocacy community, often described as taking people “under her wing”. She is survived by her parents, two sisters, and her cats, Bert and Ernie.

This list consists of the titles in our collection from, or that feature, Wong and links to find out more about her and her work.

Retellings & Reimagining: Manga & Anime Based on Other Stories

While manga and anime often depict original stories, there are quite a few titles that are adaptations of existing classics and mythologies. Some even take liberties to reimagine characters and settings to tell a whole new story.

The Strength Within Us

Created for this year’s Fall Fest and Slammin’ Rhymes Challenge XIX, The Strength Within Us reading list celebrates the power, resilience, and creativity that live in our communities (especially within Black stories and storytellers). Inspired by this year’s theme of inspiration, cultural expression, and collective uplift, this list highlights books that explore what it means to endure, to dream, and to rise.

US Government and Religious Freedom

The “Establishment Clause” of the US Constitution begins “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof…” What did the freedom of/from religion mean then, and what does it mean today? On this well-debated topic, here is a collection of diverse 21st-century perspectives to consider, over 200 years after these words were codified.

Title - Beyond Belief, Beyond Conscience

Voices of the American Revolution

On November 16th, 2025, PBS began airing “The American Revolution,” a 6-part documentary created by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt. This documentary presents a detailed account of America’s founding. A staple of this type of documentary is narration using first-hand accounts from letters, diaries, and records. The accounts of those who lived this history are illuminating and bring these events to life, painting often mythologized figures as real people. They can also provide fresh insight and perspectives from historically marginalized voices.

While researching this list, it was easy to imagine an infinite number of lists about different topics related to the American Revolution – each equally important and informative. This particular list compiles some of the letters, writings, biographies, and histories of the figures and personalities mentioned in the documentary and is meant to be a complement to the series.

Title - Black Writers of the Founding Era, 1760-1800

Winter Holiday Romances

Cozy up this holiday season with different romance novels that center Diwali, Hannukah, Christmas, and New Year’s!

Winter Mysteries and Thrillers

Need a chilly read? Here are some winter thrillers to keep you up at night!

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.

Find 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.

Browse the First Nations 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.

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)

Find 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)

Get reading recommendations from our staff.

Use your 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 category in Novelist Plus.

Indigenous Authors

Tags Authors, Indigenous

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.

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 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.

3. Get reading recommendations from Library staff.

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

Staff Picks 2024- 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).

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 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. There are several horror categories to choose from including:

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, November 28, 10:30am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading. Do you like classic American Literature? Do you enjoy listening to literature read out loud? Then consider WitLITS where our bookclub requires one thing – show up.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Whiteout” by Dhonielle Clayton. Pick up a copy of the book at Martindale-Brightwood. Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne – First Monday Book Club
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “The Women” by Kristin Hannah. Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program, which is free and open to everyone!
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 Horror, If You Like

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. Celebrate with us!

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

The Indianapolis Public Library is where every story is found, and the freedom to read is essential, not just for public libraries, but for individuals, families, our communities, and our democracy as a whole. Become a champion for your library and advocate for free access and the freedom to read.

We invite our entire community to join us to celebrate the Freedom to Read during National Banned Books Week, October 5-11, 2025. Here at The Indianapolis Public Library, we believe that you should have the power to choose what you read because the freedom to read is inseparable from the freedom to grow, learn, and thrive.

Banned Books Week Oct. 5-11, 2025. Censorship is so 1984. Read for your rights. ala.org/bbooks ALA American Library Association

“With the escalation in attempts to ban books in libraries, schools, and bookstores around the country, George Orwell’s cautionary tale “1984” serves a prescient warning about the dangers of censorship. This year’s theme reminds us that the right to read belongs to all of us, that censorship has no place in contemporary society, and that we must defend our rights.” ~ American Library Association

“The 2025 theme of Banned Books Week serves as a reminder that censorship efforts persist to this day,” ALA President Cindy Hohl said. “We must always come together to stand up for the right to read.”

Censorship by the Numbers. Percentage of total titles targeted by pressure groups and decision makers. 6% in 2005, 8% in 2010, 14% in 2015, 25% in 2020, and 72% in 2024. Pressure groups and the decision makers they influenced targeted 4,190 total titles in 2024. From 2001-2020, this constituency attempted to remove an average of 46 titles per year. ala.org/bbooks

Censorship by the Numbers. Who Challenges Books? Nearly 72% of censorship attempts in 2024 were initiated by pressure groups and decision makers who have been swayed by them. 36$ Board/administration, 26% Pressure groups, 10% Elected officials/government, 16% Parents, 7% Other/unknown, 4% Patrons, 1% Librarians/teachers, staff. Statistics based on 5,813 book challenges.

Censorship by the Numbers. Where do Challenges Take Place? Multi-title challenges at schools remained alarmingly expansive in 2024. The trend of attempting to censor materials and services available to entire communities through their public library continued. 55% Public libraries, 38% School libraries, 5% Schools, 2% Higher education/other. Statistics based on 804 cases with known locations. ala.org/bbooks

ALA Top 10 Most Challenged Books of 2024

“The American Library Association documented 821 attempts to censor materials and services at libraries, schools, and universities in 2024. The most common reasons for challenges were false claims of illegal obscenity for minors; inclusion of LGBTQIA+ characters or themes; and dealing with topics of race, racism, inclusivity, equity, and social justice. Of the 2,452 unique titles that were challenged or banned in 2024, here are the top 10 most frequently targeted.” -American Library Association

All annotations are provided by the American Library Association

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 - The Gospel According to Jesus Christ

Celebrating the Freedom to Read in 2023 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, 2023 at Central Library. To a packed house, John and Andrea discussed the importance of protecting our freedom to read.

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.

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.

Closeup view of fallen brown, red, orange, and yellow maple leaves.

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

Event: Plant-Based Cooking
Date & Time: Saturday, December 06, 3:00pm
Location: Central Library
Description: As the weather cools, warm up by mastering plant-based soups and desserts that boost health and save money. Learn how beans and legumes create flavorful, budget-friendly meals like Lentil Artichoke Stew, Mushroom Wild Rice Bisque, African Stew, Ambrosia Fruit Salad, and Wacky Chocolate Cake.
Register Here

Halloween Storytime Online

A small child dressed in a fleece bear costume reaching into an orange bowl to select trick-or-treat candy.

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 sitting on a table with eerie lighting.

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

A stack of three books sitting outside on a sunny day with pumpkins and falling leaves.

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

Cozy mysteries, often referred to as “cozies,” are a gentle subgenre of crime fiction or more hardened mysteries. The stories are often set in small communities and feature unlikely amateur detectives like letter carriers, inn keepers, teachers or librarians. Explicit sexuality and graphic violence take place off stage and any profanity is mild. If you like cozy mysteries, you can browse a wide variety of titles in our catalog or take a look at these tips and tricks to make your next selection!

1. Borrow e-books or downloadable audiobooks.

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

Cozy Mystery Fiction from OverDrive

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.

2. Get reading recommendations from Library staff.

Click on a featured booklist to get cozy mystery reading recommendations. See also our If You Like Mysteries recommendations. You might also try Cozymystery.com for a one stop shop for all matters cozy. It provides recommendations, booklists, and announcements of upcoming entries in all your favorite series.

3. Use your Library card to login to Novelist Plus to find more cozy mysteries.

Browse the Novelist Plus cozy mysteries list find cozy mystery reading recommendations, read-alikes, series lists, and reviews.

4. Subscribe to the cozy mystery newsletter from NextReads.

Subscribe to NextReads to receive cozy mystery 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 here!

5. Make a Selection from these cozy mystery authors.

Find a book discussion near you!

Event: WitLITS Book Discussion Group
Date & Time: Friday, November 28, 10:30am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading. Do you like classic American Literature? Do you enjoy listening to literature read out loud? Then consider WitLITS where our bookclub requires one thing – show up.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Whiteout” by Dhonielle Clayton. Pick up a copy of the book at Martindale-Brightwood. Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne – First Monday Book Club
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “The Women” by Kristin Hannah. Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program, which is free and open to everyone!
No Registration Required.

Tags If You Like, Mysteries

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.

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 Libby before, Libby directions and a Libby video tutorial are available, as well as 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 Library staff.

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

Mysteries for Adults:

Mysteries for Teens:

Mysteries for Kids:

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.

Staff Picks 2024- Best of Suspense

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

5. Use your 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. All you need to open NoveList Plus is your Library card. There are several mystery categories to choose from including:

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, November 28, 10:30am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading. Do you like classic American Literature? Do you enjoy listening to literature read out loud? Then consider WitLITS where our bookclub requires one thing – show up.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Whiteout” by Dhonielle Clayton. Pick up a copy of the book at Martindale-Brightwood. Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne – First Monday Book Club
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “The Women” by Kristin Hannah. Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program, which is free and open to everyone!
No Registration Required.

Tags If You Like, Mysteries

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!

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.

Check out a book by a Hispanic or Latino author.

Get reading recommendations from Library staff.

For adults:

For teens:

For Kids:

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

Use your 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 Hispanic and Latino authors. Browse the Latine category in Novelist Plus.

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

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 library staff.

Adults:

Kids:

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!

Use your Library card to access Novelist Plus.

On Novelist Plus you’ll find reading recommendations, read-alikes, series lists, reviews, and lists of award-winning books. There are several historical fiction categories to choose from including:

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, November 28, 10:30am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading. Do you like classic American Literature? Do you enjoy listening to literature read out loud? Then consider WitLITS where our bookclub requires one thing – show up.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Whiteout” by Dhonielle Clayton. Pick up a copy of the book at Martindale-Brightwood. Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne – First Monday Book Club
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “The Women” by Kristin Hannah. 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, December 01, 6:30pm
Location: Franklin Road Branch
Description: Adults are invited to this monthly book discussion program. The title for December is “Crazy Rich Asians” by Kevin Kwan.
No Registration Required.

Event: Virtual Author Talk: Scheming Wives and High-Stakes Hilarity
Date & Time: Tuesday, December 02, 2:00pm
Location: Online
Description: Buckle up for a wild ride and join us as we sit down for an online chat with debut author Sue Hincenbergs to discuss her novel The Retirement Plan, in which murder is the name of the game.
Register Here

Need more help?

Tags If You Like

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

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.

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, Libby directions and a Libby video tutorial are available, as well as OverDrive Support.

Get reading recommendations from Library staff.

Browse through one of our featured lists or see our full listing of LGBTQ+ staff created book lists.

LGBTQ+ Graphic Novels

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

Title - My Lesbian Experience With Loneliness

Use your 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 LGBTQ+ authors.

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+

Here are some tips for finding books by Black authors, including a convenient list of authors linked directly to our catalog for placing requests or checking out e-books and e-audiobooks. Find compelling fiction and nonfiction by both contemporary and classic Black authors, including books in every genre from literary fiction to romance, to science fiction to personal memoirs, whether you are looking for a thrilling page turner are recognized prize-winner!

Visit the Center for Black Literature & Culture at Central Library.

The Center for Black Literature & Culture (CBLC) is home to our largest collection of materials by Black authors. Take as long as you’d like to browse this collection that features authors whose work impacts local, national, and global culture in literature, sports, business, politics, science, and music. Also don’t miss the CBLC’s website, The Power of Black Voices. This online collection includes artifacts, photographs, and articles across many categories including Black Literature and The African Diaspora. The CBLC can provide both in-person and online help finding books by Black authors.

Read an award winner.

Make a selection from some of the most distinguished honors in literature. The Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) Literary Award, the NAACP Image Awards for Literature, and the Earnest J. Gaines Literary Award all recognize excellence in writing by Black authors. To place convenient requests browse the winners in our catalog:

Borrow e-books and e-audiobooks

You can use your Library card to use OverDrive, our e-book and e-audiobook lending platform. Browse OverDrive’s African American Fiction or OverDrive’s African American Nonfiction collections. If you have never borrowed from OverDrive’s Libby app before, Libby directions and a Libby video tutorial are available, as well as OverDrive Support.

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.

Screenshot of four book covers that display from a search in the Libby app.

Get reading recommendations from Library staff

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

Use your 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 Black authors. Browse the Black Authors category in Novelist Plus.

Subscribe to the Black Literature Newsletter from NextReads

Receive reading recommendation in your inbox monthly for recent novels featuring stories by Black authors. Book suggestions are linked to our catalog for easy requesting. It’s FREE! See a sample issue and Subscribe to Next Reads today!

Black Authors

Tags Authors, Black History

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 Library staff.

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

5. Use your 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. There are several horror categories to choose from including:

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, November 28, 10:30am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading. Do you like classic American Literature? Do you enjoy listening to literature read out loud? Then consider WitLITS where our bookclub requires one thing – show up.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Whiteout” by Dhonielle Clayton. Pick up a copy of the book at Martindale-Brightwood. Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne – First Monday Book Club
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “The Women” by Kristin Hannah. 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

Urban Fiction, or Street Lit, share the socio-economic realities and culture of its characters in a city landscape. Profanity, sex, and violence are usually explicit and it is common that authors of this genre draw upon their own past experiences to inform their stories. Here are several ways to easily find and check out urban fiction reading recommendations with your IndyPL library card.

1. Borrow e-books or downloadable audiobooks.

Browse urban fiction lists from OverDrive to find e-books and downloadable audiobooks. If you have never borrowed from Libby before, Libby directions and a Libby video tutorial are available, as well as OverDrive Support.

Browse Urban Fiction from OverDrive

2. Make a selection from this list of urban fiction authors.

3. Get reading recommendations from Library staff.

4. Use your 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. Browse the Novelist Plus Urban Fiction category.

5. Find a book discussion near you!

Event: WitLITS Book Discussion Group
Date & Time: Friday, November 28, 10:30am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading. Do you like classic American Literature? Do you enjoy listening to literature read out loud? Then consider WitLITS where our bookclub requires one thing – show up.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Whiteout” by Dhonielle Clayton. Pick up a copy of the book at Martindale-Brightwood. Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne – First Monday Book Club
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “The Women” by Kristin Hannah. 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, Urban Fiction

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, November 28, 10:30am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading. Do you like classic American Literature? Do you enjoy listening to literature read out loud? Then consider WitLITS where our bookclub requires one thing – show up.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Whiteout” by Dhonielle Clayton. Pick up a copy of the book at Martindale-Brightwood. Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne – First Monday Book Club
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “The Women” by Kristin Hannah. 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

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 Libby before, Libby directions and a Libby video tutorial are available, as well as Overdrive Support. If you have never borrowed from Kanopy before, you can get Kanopy directions.

3. Get reading recommendations from Library 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

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

4. Make a Selection from these authors.

5. Use your 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. There are several fantasy categories to choose from including:

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, November 28, 10:30am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading. Do you like classic American Literature? Do you enjoy listening to literature read out loud? Then consider WitLITS where our bookclub requires one thing – show up.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Whiteout” by Dhonielle Clayton. Pick up a copy of the book at Martindale-Brightwood. Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne – First Monday Book Club
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “The Women” by Kristin Hannah. 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

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 Library 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 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. There are several science fiction categories to choose from including:

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, November 28, 10:30am
Location: Spades Park Branch
Description: A read aloud group exploring classic literature in a group reading. Do you like classic American Literature? Do you enjoy listening to literature read out loud? Then consider WitLITS where our bookclub requires one thing – show up.
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Martindale-Brightwood
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 5:30pm
Location: Martindale-Brightwood Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “Whiteout” by Dhonielle Clayton. Pick up a copy of the book at Martindale-Brightwood. Never attended? We would love to have you!
No Registration Required.

Event: Adult Book Discussion at Wayne – First Monday Book Club
Date & Time: Monday, December 01, 6:30pm
Location: Wayne Branch
Description: The book to be discussed is “The Women” by Kristin Hannah. 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

If you are gearing up to cheer on the Pacers, there’s no better time to dive into the team’s rich history. From their roots to unforgettable playoff moments, The Indianapolis Public Library offers a courtside seat to decades of Pacers pride. Take a look at our reading recommendations for all ages about basketball from high school to college to the WNBA and NBA. You can even explore the intersection of basketball and the arts – music, poetry, photography, fashion, sculpture, painting and film.

You’ll also find a special Pacers display on the top floor of Central Library in the Indianapolis Special Collections Room. Visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the city skyline while exploring the team’s legacy. This display will be available until Sunday, June 22nd, when the NBA playoffs end.

History

Encyclopedia of Indianapolis: Indiana Pacers
Encyclopedia of Indianapolis: Market Square Arena and Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Encyclopedia of Indianapolis: Roger W. Brown, Fred C. (Bud) Tucker Jr. , Bobby (Slick) Leonard,

Reading Recommendations

Hoops & Books

Take a look through this list of books about basketball from high school to college to the NBA.

Basketball Movies

Here are a few movies and documentaries about basketball to get you ready for all the live action!

Underdog Stories

When things are tough, an underdog story is a great way to feel inspired to keep going…like the Pacers. Never give up!

e-Books & Streaming

Basketball & Pacers Pride in Indiana

In 49 states it’s just basketball…but this is Indiana. Make a selection from Books on and off the Court — Basketball in Indiana! – e-books and audiobooks to enjoy between games while we cheer our Pacers on! Yes ‘Cers! Learn how to use your library card to checkout e-books or audiobooks.

Women’s Hoops: The Essential Reading List

NCAA tournament season is almost upon us, and the WNBA opener is on the horizon. Get amped for all the action to come with new and classic reads about women’s basketball.

Title - Inaugural Ballers : the True Story of the First U.S. Women

Art & Basketball

Explore the intersection of basketball and the arts – music, poetry, photography, fashion, sculpture, painting and film.

Title - The Story of Basketball in 100 Photographs

Title - A History of Basketball in 15 Sneakers

Basketball Hoops & Hopes -Chapter Books for Kids!

Here are some great reads for kids that feature basketball!

Pacers Pride at the Library

https://indypl.bibliocommons.com/v2/list/display/1540560119/2452145039

Tags Local History

Blog Home

2025 Staff Picks & Gift Guide

Staff Picks

Read an award winner by an Indigenous author.

Browse our e-Book & Streaming Indigenous author collections.

Get reading recommendations.

Find Indigenous authors for adults & teens.

Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown

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

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

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

Find Indigenous authors for children.

Get reading recommendations from our staff.

Use your Library card to login to Novelist Plus

Indigenous Authors

Veterans Day Reading Recommendations

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

Sharing Veteran’s Day with Children

Recommended Reading Suggestions from Veterans

6 Ways to Find Your Next Terrifying Read

1. Read an award winner.

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

3. Get reading recommendations from Library staff.

Staff Picks 2024- Best of Suspense

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

5. Subscribe to the horror newsletter from NextReads.

6. Use your Library card to login to Novelist Plus.

Find a book discussion near you!

Need more help?

ALA Top 10 Most Challenged Books of 2024

Freedom to Read — Local Challenges

Celebrating the Freedom to Read in 2023 with John Green

Memorable Highlights:

WFYI Presents a Documentary: Read or Restrict

Dig Deeper

Programs

Halloween Storytime Online

If You Like Horror

Fall Reading Recommendations

Fiction

TV & Movies

Extras

For Kids & Teens

1. Borrow e-books or downloadable audiobooks.

2. Get reading recommendations from Library staff.

3. Use your Library card to login to Novelist Plus to find more cozy mysteries.

4. Subscribe to the cozy mystery newsletter from NextReads.

5. Make a Selection from these cozy mystery authors.

Find a book discussion near you!

1. Read an award winner.

2. Borrow e-books or downloadable audiobooks.

3. Get reading recommendations from Library staff.

Staff Picks 2024- Best of Suspense

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

5. Use your Library card to login to NoveList Plus.

7. Subscribe to the mystery newsletter from NextReads.

8. Find a book discussion near you!

Download and stream books by Hispanic and Latino authors.

Check out a book by a Hispanic or Latino author.

Get reading recommendations from Library staff.

Read an award winner.

Use your Library card to login to Novelist Plus.

Subscribe to a Spanish newsletter from NextReads.

Find award winners.

Get reading recommendations from library staff.

Staff Picks 2024 – Best of Historical Fiction

Use your Library card to access Novelist Plus.

Subscribe to the historical fiction newsletter from NextReads.

Make a selection from one of these historical fiction authors.

Upcoming Author Talks & Book Discussions

Need more help?

Read an award winner.

Borrow e-books or downloadable audiobooks.

Get reading recommendations from Library staff.

LGBTQ+ Graphic Novels

Use your Library card to login to NoveList Plus.

Subscribe to the Rainbow Reads newsletter from NextReads.

LGBTQ+ Adult Authors

LGBTQ+ Teen Authors

LGBTQ+ Childrens Authors