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Indianapolis Special Collections Room

Indianapolis Special Collections Room

The Nina Mason Pulliam Indianapolis Special Collections Room 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 ISCR is made up of two portions; an open study space, and a closed archival room that houses the Indianapolis Public Library's most rare and special works. Access to materials in the archival room and tours of the space are available by request.

Resources

Indianapolis Authors

Find first editions, translated editions, and signed copies of books written by Indianapolis authors from the 1800s to present day. The collection includes James Whitcomb Riley, Booth Tarkington, Meredith Nicholson, Janet Flanner, Augusta Stevenson, Kurt Vonnegut, Jr., and John Green.

Indianapolis Public Library Archives

Discover Library history from 1868 to present day including documents, records, scrapbooks, photographs, blueprints, memorabilia, Indiana Author’s Award winning titles, and McFadden Lecture Author signed copies.

Indianapolis Menus and Cookbooks

This collection includes cookbooks from the 1500s to present day ranging from international to local congregation cookbooks. Local menus from the 1900s to present day are also featured. This collection is a gift from Wright Marble, an Indianapolis chef and collector.

Children’s Literature

Explore historical books written for children, illustrated editions, award-winning titles, and volumes with local importance.

Historic and Fine Printing

View books about printing, typography, and print history. Highlights of this collection include examples of unusual books and limited editions from local presses including the Press of the Indiana Kid, Grabhorn Press, and Bobb-Merrill Co. This collection is a gift from G. Harvey Petty.


Amenties & Services

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Special collections and archives
  • Tours by request
  • Quarterly exhibits


Witness history right at your fingertips.

Digital images, photographs, and blueprints available online.

Access Digital Indy Archives
Witness history right at your fingertips.