We love the Glendale Library - it was recently redone and is gorgeous, full of natural light and thoughtful details. It was designed specifically to be energy efficient with things like solar panels, electric vehicle stations, and recycled materials. The kids area is thoughtfully designed and full of activities and toys for a range of ages. There are lots of meeting rooms and tables, chairs, and seating area options. They even have a large multipurpose room I've seen with classes, kids parties, and bigger group activities. read more

Updating my review, because the Glendale Branch Library is completely new. New location, new everything. If you've been to the Michigan Road Branch, then you'll feel like this one is similar. The children's area is small but nice. There's a hill in the middle that kids can climb up and sit on, and some games and toys and things, as well as lots of books. The children's area is sort of open to the rest of the library, so it would be interesting to see what it looks like when there are lots of kids here for story time. There are lots of little nooks to hang out in, and lots of power outlets. There is also an outdoor reading area, which I saw was being used when I visited on a beautiful day. Another cool thing is that there's a drive-thru book drop, which is convenient. Overall, this is a much-needed improvement to this branch! read more

Incredible! This newly opened location is reminiscent of the Michigan Branch library design. The space is filled with natural light, quiet spaces, nature and private meeting and workspaces. The children's section could be better. You could easily spend two hours here exploring the kids' book displays and playscapes that include trains, wall installations and cubbies ideal for reading. We're so excited to add this spot to our library rotation. We were only there for thirty minutes and walked out the door with a stack of ten books. I'm always a sucker for the children's cookbook/food section. What a treasure chest for the community. Cannot recommend this new library enough! read more

For over 20 years, the Glendale Branch Library existed in what had been Glendale Mall and eventually became Glendale Town Center. It was a novelty really. They were the nation's first library branch to actually be opened inside a shopping mall. Let's be honest. It got old. Glendale Town Center changed dramatically and the library branch existed in an older part of the building that wasn't particularly kept up well. It was on the second floor - and while there was an elevator, it just kind of lost that comfortable feeling you want a library to have. It was spacious. It had some great features, but what had once offered obvious foot track was now a bit out of the way. A couple years ago, Indy Library announced that this branch would be leaving this shopping center and moving into a free-standing building being built on the site of the former John Strange Elementary on East 62nd. It's a solidly residential area only a few blocks from Glendale, yet it feels like a world of difference. I went by briefly on opening day, however, it was overly packed and I'm not a crowd person. So, I returned today with the crowd having died down a bit to check it out for myself. Oh my. It's definitely become an upper-tier branch. The building is newly built, of course, and it's a behemoth at 24,800-square feet. It doesn't look that big on the outside, but once you go in you're just kind of in awe of the fact that you can actually go to parts of the library and feel disconnected from others. There's a quiet reading room that's actually quiet. There's a comfort room for those with sensitivity issues. There's a nice-sized meeting room you can reserve. There's a hearing loop in the community room, study rooms, an actual outdoor reading porch area, and a beautifully done children's area that even sparked my imagination with some light play equipment and a couple of murals that were dazzling. Kids have room to wander without stumbling over each other - yet, it's an open concept and also feels very safe. There's both a walk-up and drive-up book return (I did love the drive-up book return at the Town Center). There's all the usual perks - internet access, public computers with Microsoft Office, early learning computer stations, self-service checkout, color printer, color copy machine, a document scanner, mobile printing, outgoing fax, exam proctoring, a bike rack, assistive technology, a seed library, and there's some obvious significant effort to be disability friendly (this branch is VERY close to a day service for folks with intellectual/developmental disabilities and is obviously welcoming to those with disabilities - I did find a couple of the aisles a tad narrow for wheelchair users, however, most are wonderful and they have power doors). There's accessible parking, of course, along with parking for families with small children. This branch is designed for LEED Gold Certification and emphasizes sustainability. The building has solar panels on the roof and generates enough energy to cover 71% of the branch's energy costs. Glendale Branch also now has the second-largest collection of physical materials in the Indianapolis public library system (Central Library is first, of course). Glendale carries titles in Spanish, French, Korean, and even Braille! I was honestly so comfortable here - I think the librarians were enjoying how much I was enjoying the branch. They do also have vending machines by the restrooms. This branch is beautiful, open, comfortable, nicely resourced, and it seemed like even the librarians had a better spirit (I love the Glendale branch librarians - it is my home branch, however, this has to be a more pleasant work atmosphere). There's so much to love here. This far surpasses what I was hoping for and I look forward to visiting often. read more

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It's a bright, new branch that just looks like iit has more to offer that the old branch location in the Glendale Mall. But, it is now much harder to get to for Seniors and less affluent patrons who have to ride the bus. The architects however did not plan the site layout with the Setting Sun in mind, so for awhile in the afternoon in some Seasons, the Sun can be so intense as to prevent you from reading. read more

Gorgeous new library branch that moved from the Glendale mall location on 62nd street and is (re) opened (Summer 2024) at 3660 E 62nd. We volunteer once a month with the Paws to Read program (where kids read to dogs) through Paws & Think -- but our usual places are the Lawrence and Ft Ben libraries. We love both of those, but were so excited to get the opportunity to come here as well. It's lovely! I didn't even capture pics of the gorgeous patio or more of the books. And the staff are nice as ever, too. What a gem! #ReviewsByRL read more

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What a great new library! We have been long time Glendale patrons and the new location is absolutely wonderful. Great kids area and the lighting and decor is so fresh! Love the new look and location. Well done IMCPL! read more

I really wasn't expecting much from this mall turned public library so I was floored to find a modern clean upscale library. Finding the library is a challenge as it is on the second floor tucked in a back hallway next to Staples. The staff is friendly and helpful-the best I have found in Indy. Electronic checkout is easy. There are 2 rows of computers for general use which fill up with school aged children. In the back, is a children's reading section with an artistic tree to read beside. We came to use the community room which is free for non profits. The room is large with chairs and tables that are configurable. There is an awkward column in the center of the room. The room is equipped with a fridge and small kitchenette. You must reserve the room in advance. The room holds about a hundred people. There is a projector that we did not use. There are a few small study rooms which I did not use. Besides books there is a collection of movies. There are plenty of tables to sit and read. The library is quiet. The restroom facilities are roomy and clean with a changing table. This is a really nice facility. I'll be back. read more

Glendale Branch Library - Children's reading corner - Libraries Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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I really like this library and location. However, there's a lady that works the desk at the main door that is less than helpful and very snippy. I put a hold on an item that was located at Glendale. Went to pick it up, and couldn't find it. When I asked her if there was a processing area and could it be checked, she just got nastier and said "It's not here". She was unwilling to look and kept snipping at me. I finally gave up, got home, and got a notice a few minutes later that it was ready for pickup. Also hear her be rude to another person about a receipt. Dang! That job can't be that bad. read more

I conducted an experiment of sorts these past few months to see if I could incorporate public library borrowing into my subscription saturated life. After all, Netflix and Hulu don't have everything, and there's something comfortingly nostalgic about picking out a pile of DVDs at the library. The Glendale branch has a surprisingly impressive selection of recent popular movies, classics, and some Blu-Rays. The library itself is well laid out, clean, inviting, with lots of soft space, a quiet room, and a fun area for kids. They almost always have exactly what I'm looking for. If they don't have it, you can request it and it will get there in just a couple days. A sizable caveat to DVD renting: The rental period is just three days and the late fees are $1/day... You can easily renew online if no one else has requested the items, but you can also easily forget. In a couple months I had unknowingly racked up $42 in overdue fees from just a few DVDs. I had no idea that these could even be sent to collection if not paid in 30 days! That's right, your credit score can be affected by unpaid library fees. So think twice about renting more than one movie at a time if you aren't prepared to watch them immediately or won't be back near the library soon. Book rental periods are much longer and the overdue fees are much lower. Food for thought. This branch does have great hours and is even open on Sundays, which is a huge plus for me. I just wish it wasn't so far out of my daily route. As a college student, renting books here was a smart money-saving move and the study space was a nice change of scenery. But it's impossible to compete with the convenience of Amazon movie rentals by employing painful overdue fees and short rental periods. read more

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Decent library really needs a deep cleaning, and some updating. Lighting is also a bit dark but overall a nice place to enjoy books and some quiet time. read more

This review is a shoutout to the MVL Holly. My hold for a book was due to expire today. The plan was to pick it up immediately after work and be on my merry way. Well, traffic wouldn't have that. I realized I wasn't going to make it before close at 6pm, so I called the library at 5:55 to explain my situation. I had no expectations other than maybe getting out of a late fee. Enter Most Valuable Librarian, Holly. I explained my predicament and she asked if I could pick it up tomorrow. I could and all was good! Butttt then I thought "I'm already on my way..." which led to my weird request. Despite knowing the odds of getting a complete stranger to do you a favor are pretty low, I still asked Holly if she could leave the book at the drop off station. Rather than shut it down, Holly offered a much better solution. She told me she stays until 6:15 anyway, so she could just meet me outside to give me my book. Were you blown away by her straight up kindness? I was but I guess that's what makes Holly the MVL. read more

Glendale Branch Library - Thank you, Holly!! - Libraries Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

This is a professional and comfortable library they just need to cut the heat up its cold in here, lol turn the heat up.

I'm a big fan of the public libraries - each one is unique - and this is no exception. Things to know before you go: -The drive up book return is in the parking lot. The library itself is up on the second floor inside a building that shares a parking lot w/Staples. -There is a cafe area - no food for sale except vending machines. Many of the tables are occupied by "regulars" playing cards or chess. :) -This library is really spacious! -There is a huge selection of DVDs, CD's, and (obviously) books galore. -There is plenty of seating throughout depending on what you're looking for -- a few comfy chairs and couches near the entrance, some cafe seating, kids area, kids coloring tables, etc. The community room is spacious! My son and I went there for a yoga class and I was surprised it was so big. read more

This is a small, cozy library with 2 to 3 sections where you could just plugged in your laptop and start working. They have two rows of public computers you can use too. What I like about this library: not too crowded, people here are actually either doing their stuff or kids + parents are spending quality book reading time. And its exceptionally quiet for some reasons. The best thing is the location, since it's situated next to Target, Staples, Panera... if you're tired or decided you need a break, you can easily find yourself wandering to these places for a change of environment. read more

Glendale Branch Library - The front and checkout section of the library - Libraries Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

So. If you've read my review of Central Libray you know i libraries. I am here today studying for an exam. I have been at this location numerous times with my kids and one other time to study. It's a nice use of space as this used to be apart of the Glendale Mall. This library has a quiet study room (unlike the Lawrence branch) so that is awesome but it was way way way too cold. The children's section is nice with an area set aside of their computers and study table for tweens and teens. There are 2 tows of adults computers and some tables in the open to sit and study and a first come first serve study room. I also like the little area set aside for snacking that is in the front right of the library. Overall a nice library. Its lacking the comfy cozy sections and nooks that make a library the perfect place to read and study for long periods of time but in terms of functionality it is good. The librarians are also very helpful if you are doing research or simply looking for a particular book. Go to the library and read! Take your kids too! read more

Given what a small space this is, I am really surprised by the sheer variety of books, DVDs, and music available at this library. It's a small space, and it's tucked away - you have to go past the golden penguin statues (Wynkin, Blynkin & Nod) and either take the elevator or the stairs up to the second floor and go down a hallway, but I suppose it's better that it's tucked away in a quieter spot rather than being in a noisier spot in the shopping center (this branch is tucked between a Staples and a Target). The layout encourages browsing - the hallway leading to the entrance includes signs of community goings-on, and the aisles in the library itself include classic novels and recent releases. The fiction is arranged along the back wall and the shelves are clearly labelled (though they were a little off on my last visit - I think they're reshelving!). Lots of seating around. And of course, whatever books, DVDs, or music they don't have can be easily requested online. I've ordered books online several times and had it delivered here to my local library at Glendale, and the books get here fairly quickly. Giving this four stars only because the staff seemed to assume my first time there that I knew how to check myself out (they use electronic checkout) and I had to ask someone to come walk me through the basics. Otherwise, the busy librarians tend to keep their heads down. They're friendly but you have to seek them out :) read more

Any of the negative reviews to this library really need to be reconsidered. Have you ever been to a library in any other city? This is a great library. It's clean, the facility is spacious, the staff are great, easy check out. There are restrooms are clean. The mens has a baby changing station. What a great use of a defunct mall that used to sell a bunch of useless things you didn't need. The selection of books for kids is really outstanding. There are lots of duplicates so usually what you are looking for is there. There is a play area for children plenty of computers for kids to play games on. I am a huge fan of this library. Thank you to everyone making it happen. I know we'll be spending lots of time here. Finally I found where some of the tax money in Indiana goes, which is great, it sure isn't going into your road system. FEED YOUR BRAIN! read more

Can a library double as a cooking school? When every book you can imagine is available, often in print and e-book version, yes, it can. I'm touting the entire Indianapolis Public Library system when I say how proud I am to be a patron of such a wide collection. It was at the Glendale library, my local hub, where I found Modernist Cuisine on the lower oversized shelf, it's white, simple cover begging me to pick it up. This book changed by culinary focus entirely. From there, I realized the potential of the inter library loan system as I began to max out my allotted limit. What I love most about the Glendale library is not the comfy chairs or the paws to read dog - it's the fact that it is always, ALWAYS busy. There is never a time when less than 50 people are using the computers, browsing the reference material or checking out DVD's. It's a community resource that so kindly welcomes everyone to stop by and hang out for a few. And with two large rows filled with cookbooks and cooking related books, you know you'll find me there for quite a while. read more

Kind of an interesting location to find, tucked behind the target and you have to go inside then up an elevator to the entrance. Beyond that I love the kids section, lots of toys and a little puppet theatre to play. Conveniently tucked in the back corner so the kids don't have to be so quiet. Perfect place for toddlers to play while you pick out some books, or just on a rainy day read more

Clean, organized, spacious. A great place to era a classic or a new release and a place where kids can explore on their own. read more

Glendale Branch Library - One of the few kids stations - Libraries Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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Glendale Library is a reuse of what's left of the original mall. Kudos for that. I thought when it opened, they'd eventually figure out a better entrance. But years later, you still have to park, walk, wait, go up in the slow elevator, then navigate down & around a long hallway. Or haul yourself + books up & down a serious set of steps. Otherwise, they have a nice selection of books, reference material, music & movies. They have a cozy quiet room with an unused fireplace. So quiet in fact, somebody was napping on one of the couches last time I was there. Homeless perhaps? I love libraries; they're our greatest public treasure. All-you-can-read free books? Hoorah! If only they'd do something about their accessibility. It's frustrating to me. read more

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I'm a huge fan of public libraries; especially this one! I LOVE to read, so this means that I am a frequent flyer at this particular library. My favorite thing is that I can "hold" books and pick them up at this library when is convenient for me. read more

Really like this library. Once you get past the odd elevator ride to get inside they have everything you could ever need and the ability to order books from other branches and pick them up there is awesome. One odd quirk: the staff really doesn't seem to like kids very much. Still, it's a great resource and its location between Target & Lowe's means you can fill your mind, your toolbox, and your pantry at the same time. read more

I have no complaints about the Glendale branch. I like the set-up, with the reserved books front and center close to the check-out and an octagonal-ish arrangement of bookcases devoted to hot new stuff. I like that it has self check-out, and it's also pretty cool that it's in a mall. Though it obviously doesn't have anything as grandiose as the Clowes Auditorium in the downtown branch, Glendale has a fair amount of space for community events. This branch is home to the As I Recall Storytelling Guild, a group primarily for elderly people (though anyone is welcome!) that focuses on sharing stories and building storytelling skills. The guild is sponsored by Storytelling Arts of Indiana, which also hosts free performances by local and national storytellers in this library and others. Check the library website for a complete listing of community events here. read more

This branch needs signage! I went here for the first time to pick up a book I'd located in the online catalog and was a little confused by the lack of directions in the sterile, downstairs lobby of this mall branch. I got in the elevator (still no sign) and pushed 2, hoping I'd wind up at the library instead of some employees-only area of Staples. When the doors opened on the second floor, there was finally a sign directing visitors around the corner to the entrance. The lack of signs up to that point seemed weird for a library--it's not like it's a speakeasy! That said, the branch was warm and inviting once I got inside. I thought the fiction section seemed a little heavy on the chick lit and crime novels, but I ended up finding two other books to take with the one I originally came for anyway. I checked myself out, but one librarian gave me a friendly "Have a good night!" on my way out. So, overall, thumbs up. read more

Been going to this library for years. The staff is nice and I have seen the same employees there for years. Love this library. I had low expectations at first with it being in a strip mall but it is surprisingly big inside, good selection and helpful staff. You can request books from other locations to be sent to this branch if wanted! read more

This is a very convenient location if you live in the Broadripple area. And they have a great feature where you can of course get any book you want sent to that location for pick up. But I will warn you the library is not playing around, I had a $26 late fee bill the other day apparently it is $.25 a day per book it's late so that can add up really quick. Especially when you're getting your five-year-old 10 books at a time read more

This is a nice library. The librarians are helpful and there's plenty of parking. The lot is also patrolled by the mall security guys. There's an eating area with vending machines and I guess if you're really hungry you can walk to the many restaurants around the Glendale Mall. The librarians are generally helpful. Don't let the fact that it's on the 2nd floor throw you. Be sure to have a look at the cute penguins (Nod is my favorite) before you leave. The meeting rooms are spacious. There are lots of good movies there, and plenty of computers too. read more

I love this library. It's within walking distance for me, and although it doesn't seem too spacious, I'm surprised to find they almost always have what I need. The library website is invaluable, like a Netflix for books. The staff are friendly and helpful, the self-checkout couldn't be easier, and the library itself is easy to navigate. read more

I'm glad the branch is here in a convenient area where I'm often able to stop while doing other things. The staff is helpful and friendly too. In the large main area, I don't think the layout or environment stresses quiet, so I'm often distracted by people in extended conversations, people coming and going, people using equipment, or children. After visiting some other branches recently, I think that's normal for libraries these days. Glendale has a quiet room back in the corner if you need it. Next to the Central Library, it's the best branch I've found here. read more