Patrons are asked to keep visits brief. At branches, patron visits will be limited to one hour if building is at or near its capacity limit. Because of its unique size and floor plan, Central Library will be operating with more strict enforcement of the one-hour time limit using a badging system as patrons enter. Learn more.
Check-in Before You Leave Home Out of an abundance of caution due to Covid-19, Library branches may close without notice for cleaning. Please visit Up-to-Date Location Closures to check the status of your branch before arriving.
As the hub of the Indianapolis Public Library system, Central Library showcases renowned architecture and services. The original 1917 building, designed by Paul Cret and constructed of Indiana limestone in the Greek Doric style, was considered one of the most outstanding secular buildings in the U.S. Its six-story glass and steel-framed addition, designed by Evans Woollen, opened in 2007.
The Learning Curve is a high tech, hands-on area designed just for kids, teens, and their families. From story times to art programs, and even an area for teens only, youth may visit the Learning Curve to develop interpretive and critical thinking skills.
The Center for Black Literature & Culture (CBLC) is dedicated to celebrating the vibrant and resilient heritage and triumphs of those born of African roots. The CBLC's collection includes specially selected literature, music, movies, and artwork highlighting the contributions of black icons, specifically those with Indiana roots.
The Nina Mason Pulliam Indianapolis Special Collections Room (ISCR) houses collections of archival materials. These include adult and children's materials by local authors, photographs, scrapbooks, typescripts, manuscripts, autographed editions, letters, newspapers, and magazines.
The Assistive Technology Room provides equipment to enhance the library experience for patrons with special needs. This room includes CCTV and a specially designed workstation to offer a variety of features intended to help patrons with mobility, visual, and learning disabilities. Additional assistive services include handheld magnifiers and magnicams.
The Chris Gonzalez Collection
In existence for over 25 years, the Chris Gonzalez Library and Archives served as a place where LGBTQ+ people could access materials specific to their community. Curated by Michael Bohr, the library was comprised of over 7,000 titles, mostly from donations from community members. In 2017, Indy Pride entered into a partnership with The Indianapolis Public Library to receive most of the book and video materials, curate, and house them at Central Library. IndyPL is committed to growing this collection to make it more inclusive of people of color, women, non-binary, transgender, and lesbian/bisexual/queer/+ authors, as well as people at the intersections of these identities. There are three ways to find items in the collection:
Visit the permanent display highlighting the Collection in the Simon Reading Room at Central Library.
Items that are a part of the Collection have an identifying bookplate inside.
Book-A-Librarian: Business Resources
Meet with a librarian one-on-one in order to be introduced to business resources including Reference USA, Business Insights Global, Mergent Intellect, and Gale Virtual Reference Library databases. Additional resources can be accessed based on individual need. Schedule an appointment by texting 317-333-6877 or register through Ask-a-Librarian.
Computer Training Lab
Receive hands-on instruction on the latest word processing applications and online services in Central Library's Computer Training Lab. The Computer Training Lab provides personal assistance from Library staff and opportunities for those getting support to use what they learn immediately.
Note: The Computer Training Lab at Central is currently closed due to COVID-19. There are currently no computer classes and both rooms in that area are closed. Patrons may use the computers located on the other floors of Central Library.
3D Printing
3D printing equipment at Central Library includes a S5 Ultimaker Printer, a 3D Systems Cube Printer, and a Maker Navigator Printer. Meet at our monthly Makerspace workshops to learn the basics of 3D printing from concept to creation. Individual appointments are also available with a library staff member, either to print a project or tour the equipment.
Newspaper & Microfilm
The Newspaper collection contains a selection of United States and Indiana newspapers including current issues on paper and historic issues on microfilm. Materials do not circulate.
Patent & Trademark Office
The Central Library is designated an official Patent and Trademark Depository Library by the United States Patent and Trademark Office in Washington. Learn more.
Federal Depository Library Program
The Federal Depository Library Program (FDLP) ensures that the American public has free access to U.S. government information through depository libraries. As a selective FDLP library, digital and print federal government resources are accessible through our catalog, Central Library, and the numerous other IndyPL library locations.
Foundation Collection
The Foundation Collection provides visitors access to grantmaker directories, books on fundraising and nonprofit management, and the Foundation Center's electronic databases. The databases include detailed profiles of all active U.S. foundations, as well as an extensive file of recent grants awarded by the nation's top funders.
The Central Library has a parking garage available to patrons during their time at the Library. Garage pricing information is detailed below. The garage can be accessed on Pennsylvania Street.
Time
Fee
0-30 min
Free
30 min-1 hr
$1.00
1-2 hr
$2.00
2-4 hr
$3.00
4-8 hr
$5.00
8-12 hr
$12.00
12-24 hr
$24.00
Over 36 hr
Towed Away
Area Resource Manager
Robin Kelley
For questions or comments, please feel free to contact Central Library. We are always happy to help!
