Central Library
40 East Saint Clair Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Phone Number
Central Library Hours
| Mon - Tue | 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. |
|---|---|
| Wed - Thu | 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. |
| Fri - Sat | 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. |
| Sun | 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. |
Central Library
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NEW! T Street Eatz Café
From freshly brewed coffee and pastries to hearty breakfast sandwiches and satisfying lunch choices like sliders, salads, pizza, as well as an offering of limited plant-based and gluten-free options, the café is designed to have something for everyone.
Monday & Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Upcoming Renovation
The long-awaited renovation plans for Central Library’s Learning Curve (children's area) is underway.
- The children’s picture book area formerly located on the East side of Floor 2 at Central Library is now available on the East side of Floor 3. This includes picture books, toddler, concept, board, and characters books, and CDs for children.
- Adult DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, and Graphic Novels formerly located on the West side of Floor 3 at Central Library are now available on the East side of Floor 2.
History
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.
Both the original building and the 2007 addition included a unique architectural feature, the names of iconic authors and literary figures carved into the building's limestone walls. Of the 80+ names memorialized in this fashion, there were just five women represented and no authors of color.
In 2021, Dr. Michael Twyman set out to develop a plan to include names of historically excluded authors on the walls of Central Library. A plan was developed to display a more accurate historical narrative of the engraved names at Central. Unveiled in March of 2022, the names of ten Black American authors whose literary contributions span history, culture, and genre were added.
In 2025, additional authors were selected chosen by Library patrons, Library staff, and members of the Indianapolis community at large. This phase of the Central Authors Project celebrates 12 authors who represent a vivid literary tradition across the globe. By widening the scope of authors for this phase, Library patrons will be introduced to names and works that endure in a wide range of countries, cultures, and languages. Learn more about the Central Authors Project and the 12 authors added in 2025.
The Central Authors Project is made possible by generous gifts from Michael & Adelpha Twyman and The Dr. Michael R. Twyman Endowment Fund.
Collections & Services Unique to Central Library
Center for Black Literature & Culture
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. Learn more about the Center for Black Literature & Culture.
Indianapolis Special Collections Room
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. Learn more about the Indianapolis Special Collections Room.
Learning Curve
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. Learn more about the Learning Curve.
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.
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.
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 about patents and trademarks.
Assistive Technology Room
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. Learn more about the Assistive Technology Room.
Computer Training Lab
Receive hands-on instruction on computer skills, computer applications, and accessing online services in Central Library's Computer Training Lab during our computer and technology programs. You can also browse our current schedule of computer classes offered at Central Library as well as our other branch locations.
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.
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. Browse our full listing of research databases.
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 other Indianapolis Public Library locations.
Amenities & Services
Internet Access
- Public computers with Microsoft Office
- Early learning computer stations
- Free Wi-Fi
Meeting Spaces
- Meeting rooms available for public reservation
- Event spaces for public reservation
Hearing loop available in the auditorium
Study Rooms
Accessible Workstation
Self-Services
- Checkout
- Color printer
- Color copy machines
- Document scanner
- Mobile printing services
- ScanEZ Kiosk
PLEASE NOTE: Personal paper cannot be used in Library printers/copiers.
Exam Proctoring
Outgoing Fax
Typewriter
T Street Eatz Café
- From freshly brewed coffee and pastries to hearty breakfast sandwiches and satisfying lunch choices like sliders, salads, pizza, as well as an offering of limited plant-based and gluten-free options, the café is designed to have something for everyone.
Monday & Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Seed Library (March-October)
Blood Pressure Monitor & Information Hub
Bike Rack
Walk-up Book Return
Located inside the first set of doors at the 9th Street entrance.
Drive-up Book Return
"Monument" Art Installation & Book Share Station
- Located outside Central Library, “Monument” is an art exhibit that doubles as a book share station. The books are free and available to everyone. Borrow and return books supplied and stocked by The Library. No library card is required.
Upcoming Events at Central
Build Your Technology and Computer Skills with Northstar Digital Literacy
Central Library
Do you want to build your technology skills? Take a skill assessment to develop a custom learning plan for 10+ topics including Microsoft Office, Computer Basics, Internet Basics, and more. Use your results to focus on learning the computer skills you need to be successful and meet your goals.
Dino Dash
Central Library
Bring dinosaurs to life as kids jump, run, and stomp their way through activities with JumpBunch of Indianapolis. Young children will strengthen gross motor skills through imaginative movement!
Block Party
Central Library
Kids are invited to flex their creative muscles and building skills at our Block Party! Stop by the 2nd floor to create with LEGOs, blocks, and other kid-friendly building materials.
Parking
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 |
| 24-36 hr | $36.00 |
| Over 36 hr | Towed Away |
| Banquets and Special Events | $5.00 per Vehicle |
Director, Central Library
Elizabeth Schoettle
Hi, I’m Elizabeth Schoettle, Director of Central Library. I love to listen to nonfiction audiobooks, mostly biographies and memoirs. I love to share what I have listened to – browse my Listen with Liz recommendations. I hope you’ll visit our location soon. For questions or comments, please feel free to contact me. We are always happy to help!"
Contact Elizabeth