Love love love this library! We are frequent patrons of this library. Our family has a great time…read morehere. Our son has read over 1000 books over 4 years n is thirsty for more great reading experiences. We love abundant resources for learning and information. We also love their movies DVD rentals options. Love it!

This library has a small town feel with a big sense of community…read more As with most public libraries in Indiana, the Shelby County Public Library's roots were enabled by a $20,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie in 1901. The original Neo-Classical building opened June 1903 in Shelbyville and bears Carnegie's name. The limestone facility has undergone several renovations and expansions resulting in today's library complex, which includes the main building and annex. The main building houses adult books, dvd's, and other reading materials. There are a few tables and comfy chairs to study or read. The older Carnegie portion houses large print books and retains some of the original woodwork and leaded-glass doors. The lower level of the library houses the Children's library collection with play, learning areas and publicly available computers. The area has a recently added sensory wall. During my visit, the area was packed with boisterous children and parents for a summer event. There was a distinct energy in the space. To the east of the main building, the annex houses genealogy and history resources. The staff is busy helping patrons throughout the complex. The sprawling, busy library has a campus feel. Patrons come to socialize as well as find reading material. There is a lovely courtyard behind the main building with dedicated parking. Additional free street parking is available in front of the buildings.

This library is easy to find and located close to a CVS, not far from Walmart or fast food…read moreestablishments. The computer room is across the street which is highly inconvenient. There are several tables but, they lack a lot of outlets for those with laptops. They are unaware of hope to operate the scanning machine. They are nice to talk with and very willing to assist you but, they lack a lot of knowledge when it comes to higher levels of technological needs.

The Decatur County Courthouse is one of the most famous courthouses in the U.S. For 150 years, a…read moretree has grown out of the structure's clock tower, grabbing the attention of visitors. The Courthouse is the second dedicated courthouse of Decatur County. Plans for the building were drafted in 1854 by a committee composed of B. Y. Wilson, I. G. Monfort and B. H. Harney. Construction was overseen by Indianapolis architect, Edwin May, who designed the Indiana State House. The final cost of the Romanesque brink structure and grounds was $120,000. The courthouse opened in 1861. Rennovations to update and repair the building have been made periodically throughout the years beginning in 1889 and an expansion in 1997. The staff is friendly and the officer relayed anecdotal stories about the tree(s). The original tree appeared in the 1870s. Additional sprouts appeared over the years, but have been culled to protect the structure. The tree that exists today is a spout of the original tree. The tree has been identified as a large tooth aspen. Inside the courthouse has been preserved throughout history. Iron stairs ascend to the second floor courts. Original oak trim and some furniture adorn the halls. Historical transfer books neatly stacked in cubbies. Court was in session, so I was unable to visit the courtrooms. Framed historical newspaper articles tell stories from the past. The Courthouse is uniquely poised for visitors. On the immaculate grounds surrounding the Courthouse are a War Memorial and several historic markers.

I was drawn here by the "See the tree" signs as I exited the interstate to fill up with gas. I…read moreended up staying for a few hours to use one of the power outlets that are along the curb of the courthouse to charge up my house battery in the Sprinter van. While here, I enjoyed the markers in the courthouse and of course, the tree. The marker reads, "Site of the original court house built in 1827 and occupied until 1854. Present building completed in 1860. Large tooth aspen tree appeared in 1870 on the roof of the 115 foot clock tower. In July, 1863, it became a temporary armory while troops bivouacked on the lawn. The treasurer's office held provisions to feed 10 regiments. The 7th Regimental Band had played weekly on the square before being militarized. Many political figures have given speeches from the steps. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973." Yes, there is a tree growing on the roof. It was noticed in 1870 and it's a tourist draw. Yes, a real tree. [Review 20519 overall - 65 in Indiana - round number 1500 of 2023.]

I found out about this place after the post office canceled the passport appointment I had…read morescheduled for my son a month in advance. Thankfully, I learned that this location accepts walk-ins for passport services. I called ahead to confirm, and I'm really glad I did. They don't offer photo services like the post office, so I had to make an extra stop to get photos taken. I had also already prepaid for a money order on the processing fee, but it turned out they accept credit/debit cards or cash for that portion of the cost ($35), so I ended up paying that way instead (since my money order was too much ($50) because of the extra photo service charge I had opted for originally with the post office). The payment to the U.S. department of state ($130) still had to be money order/cashiers check or a check which I had a money order for that. The building itself is beautiful, very historic with a old-timey vibe. I enjoyed sightseeing around the building, checking out all the landmarks. When we arrived, the security guard at the front was helpful and guided us to the correct area. The staff member who assisted us was also very friendly, which made the process smooth. Parking was free and available around the building, which made things even easier. When I called ahead, they also let me know which entrance to use since some were closed, and that was really helpful. I'm so grateful this option was available the same day. It was convenient, easy to access, and the service was great, plus, the building itself was a nice bonus to see.

The Johnson County Courthouse stands on a prominent square in Franklin. The Courthouse, designed by…read morearchitect George W. Buenting, was completed in 1881 and is a mixture of Italianate and other styles. The courthouse is the 4th dedicated structure for Johnson County. (Two previous courthouses were destroyed by fire.) The exterior of the building is a combination of brick and limestone. A central clock tower with working bell is prominent. Several war memorials stand in the courtyard including a bronze Civil War sculpture by John Vawter. Inside, marble floors, curved stairways, carved woodwork and other woodwork captured my attention. A central atrium with a beautiful lit ceiling is the centerpiece of the building. The building is pristine with the most recent renovation completed in 1983. The security guard was friendly and directed me to the clerk's office for information. There are several courtrooms in the building. The Superior Court was close to original 1881 condition with folding seating made of wrought iron and oak. Other courtrooms had been modernized. Free parking surrounds the Courthouse square. The building is fully accessible. The Courthouse is worth a visit if you are interested in architecture and history.

This amazing building in downtown Columbus was designed by architect Don Hisaka in 1990 (with an…read moreaddition by RQAW on 2008). At first glance, I thought the modern building was a museum with a beautiful entrance and domed courtyard. But it is the county jail. Because this is a detention center, only visitors that are visiting inmates are allowed inside. Architect buffs must enjoy from the exterior only. If I go to jail, this is where I want to be. My rating is based on ascetics.

What a great group of people. I came with the red cross to work the shelter they were gracious to…read moreallow in their station. The brave firefighters were working to clear the roads and help their community that had lost power in the snow storm and left most roads closed. Their wives and families were so warm and welcoming. You can really tell this is a community that gathers together for one another when in need.

yo Ryan is the goat. He was super helpful in replacing my missing driver's license. Stopped here…read morefrom out of town and they were way more helpful than my local branch.

This BMV is clean, large, plenty of seating, and has lots of knowledgeable employees that are…read morefriendly and helpful. It's rare to have to wait more than 10 minutes at this location. Go during the off peak times and you might be the only customer in the place, ha.

A visit to the historic town of Oldenburg is like a short European vacation. I sure didn't feel…read morelike I was in Indiana with German inspired restaurants and historical architecture. The town plaque says the town was founded by William George in 1817. The town was named after the Dukedom of Oldenburg. Today, the Town has the nickname "Village of Spires" due to the many church steeples that fill the skyline. Father Franz Joseph Rudolf is credited with establishing the first church, the Old Stone Church, a monastery and convent between 1845 and 1866. I spent an afternoon exploring an antique shop, having ice cream, visiting the churches and convent, city hall and having lunch at a German tavern. The lovely town is small and easily walkable. Historic plaques line the streets and tell the story of this little German settlement. Everyone I met was incredibly friendly and welcoming. There is poor (non existent) internet connectivity in the town, so best to plan your trip before visiting. Except for ice cream, I didn't see a lot that would entertain the kids. Plan 2-3 hours to see all and dine. There is free street parking.