The Indiana State Library is an amazing structure filled with art, history and information. The Library was built to house the collections of the State Library and the Historical Bureau. The original building was completed in 1934 and an addition was opened in 1976. Both sections have different styles with the older section more ornate and the newer section more functional. The building is currently undergoing renovation of the massive limestone exterior. But you can still visit the inside through the entrance on the Northside of the building. A librarian welcomed us as we walked in. We told her we wanted to visit and she described the layout of the library. There is a brochure to help guide your walk through the building. In addition to books, the library carries microfilm with decades of newspapers from across the State. There is a large room filled with computers and microfilm equipment available for public use. The older part of the library was constructed mainly of materials and labor from Indiana. The building is filed with incredible art (murals, carvings and more), marble foyers and magnificent chandeliers. There is a room filled with publications by Indiana authors. A large center for children has fun interactive displays with information about the Statehouse, genealogy and local children's authors. Librarians throughout the library are engaging and eager to assist with research. There is a small gift shop near the entrance called the Nook. Metered street parking is available adjacent to the building or within walking distance. read more

See all

Despite working about a block away from the Indiana State Library for the last few years, I'd never made my way over until an event today required my attendance and I finally got the chance to check out this wonderful resource in downtown Indy. The Indiana State Library was first established in 1825. In 1841, a law established the library as a separate institution. In 1867, an act established that the law section of the library would be placed under the control of the Indiana Supreme Court - this arrangement remains true to this day. In 1895, the State Library was placed under the Board of Education. The Public Library Commission was established in 1899 and by 1925 what was officially known as the Indiana State Library was birthed out of a combining of the State Library and the Public Library Commission. In 1929, the General Assembly authorized a special levy with the expectation of raising one million dollars for a site and building that would be located at Senate and Ohio Streets - it remains at this location, though expanded, to this day. The State Library was originally conceived as primarily for use by state legislators and officials. It has obviously expanded greatly over the years. Any Indiana resident is eligible for a borrower's card (free). The library offers Ask-A-Librarian, exhibits, events/public workshops, a genealogy collection, county collections, federal documents, preservation/conservation services, rare books/manuscripts, reference and government support, the state data center, state documents, talking books, braille, Indiana Historical Bureau, Indiana Center for the Book, Indiana Authors Center, and the most recent creation is the Indiana Young Readers Center. You can take a virtual tour of the Indiana State Library. In fact, the online resources available are quite remarkable. Because it's downtown and more government connected it seems like it's much less utilized than the Indianapolis Public Library system, though in talking to the children's librarian I learned that they do tours (though this has been impacted by the pandemic) and the amount of kids who visit can vary greatly. The building itself is beautiful, though also surprisingly accessible in both street-level entrances and other entrances. State employees (badge required) can access the library via tunnels (I did this today - very confusing but convenient). I even contacted them via Ask-a-Librarian before my visit and messaged with "Jamie," who was able to explain how I could get to the library without going outside and how to get to the room where I would be (the Indiana History Reference Room). There are four floors, though for the most part only staff persons are allowed on the third and fourth floors. They also have a little store called the "Nook" near the main entrance that offers a variety of Indiana-themed items including books by Indiana authors. At one point, I know they carried my book (I had someone tell me they bought it there). I really fell in love with this place, though it's certainly more beneficial for the serious library user than the casual book-reader. It's a dream come true for genealogy research and for any research actually related to Indiana. However, if you've never been I definitely suggest a visit. It's within walking distance of the canal, Indiana History Center, and only 1-2 blocks from White River State Park. Make it a day. You'll enjoy it. read more

See all

We were in the area and found this library. This is the most gorgeous library I have ever been to. It in downtown so there is plenty of parking. This library I believe is 2 stories high. The architecture is amazing. The kid's section is great. Very beautiful and a lot of interactive activities for kids. Highly recommend stopping by this library read more

See all

If you have young children, you need to visit the Indiana State Library just to see the giant Clifford the Big Red Dog dog house in the children's wing of the library. Of course, your children will want to play in the dog house for several minutes, so now you have a few unencumbered moments to yourself to check out the rest of the children's wing on peace. You'll notice that there are blocks, puzzles and games to play with, as well as a few toys. There are also interactive displays and, of course, lots and lots of books. We stayed about 20 minutes in this section, but if you have children with longer attention spans than I do, then you'd be good for a solid hour here. This building is suuuuuper ooooold, and because it's old, it's beautiful and quiet and peaceful and has wonderful architecture and gorgeous terrazzo floors. I could have spent lots of time just walking around the building, admiring its beauty and taking photos of the details. read more

See all

The wife and I went to Luke Combs concert last weekend up in Indianapolis Indiana and that was awesome we decide to walk around the city of Indianapolis the next day and we went to the Indiana state library just to check it out and say I've been there and it's a really nice looking building I can tell you that it had a lot of books that I'm not interested in reading but it still look cool it looks nice it was very well-kept so it's a cool little thing to take pictures with five out of five stars read more

The Indiana State Library is really cool, and probably a fantastic resource if you're doing genealogy or local history. But it's not so much for the casual user. The rooms are beautiful and the building itself (which dates from 1932) is a piece of history, with murals and stained glass telling the story of our state. And the library is almost as old as Indiana, having started across the street in the state capital in 1825. Pleasant as it is to walk through and handsome as it is to look at, the library isn't really a place for the casual patron. The most beautiful rooms appear to be set up for presentations and events, with reading rooms thrown in around the edges, almost as an afterthought. The empty spaces and stacked chairs make the grand vistas of the interior design look more forbidding and desolate than they really are, causing the casual visitor to feel at one with the original settlers who, gazing across the plains of what was then the far west decided to settle down and call this place home. But settle I did, and the rewards were still mine to behold. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and clearly love the building they work in. They urged me to find a seat, settle in with a good book, and enjoy the scenery, which I did. And it was quiet -- oh, so quiet! -- just as a library should be. So stop on in and give the building a little love. Like much of Indiana, it's not perfect ... but it's also less explored and much less appreciated than it should be. read more

See all

This place is magical for all of the hardcore researchers out there! I went to one of the genealogy events and it was super informative! Not only were the speakers top notch and really knew their stuff, but they even provided snacks during the break periods! As a genealogy newbie I had a lot to learn and I had a chance to get my feet wet by hearing from all of these experts. The library staff was kind and smart. They can help you get started on learning your family history and delving into the mysteries of the past. The building is gorgeous and would be great for events and weddings. Overall I highly recommend trying out the Indiana State Library. You can just cover so many interesting things about states history and your own personal history. read more

I'm new to the state and as a student I made it a as goal to visit all the public libraries in Indianapolis. I imagine unlike most reviews, my library experience starts with the available website indypl.org. Indiana has a fantastic variety of public libraries & an easy to navigate website. Said website has a comprehensive list of every public library location, check all branch event calendars, policies, & amenities. You can also use the website to "ask a librarian", set aside books for pick up, reserve meeting rooms & study rooms etc. I use this website to schedule my study sessions. I reserve study rooms per the current study policy at the maximum time allotted of 2 hours. I receive a confirmation via email & I add the "invite" to may iCal. It's incredibly easy & helps keep me organized. It's important to note that smaller library branches have a limited number of study rooms, usually two or three. The larger locations have multiple study rooms available. While making the reservation online it'll provide a list of the rooms available at the location you selected. While there if the calendar doesn't show a reservation immediately following your 2 hour increment, you can always ask the librarian extend the reservation time. I usually do this 15 minutes prior to my end time. If a reservation for the room does exist the librarian usually attempts to accommodate & offers a different study room should one be available. While at this location the librarian was able to extend my time & I ended up having a 5 hour reservation without any interruptions. It was bliss. The location was easy to access had adequate parking, was well maintained, clean, easy to navigate & the staff was polite. The facilities were also clean & in good repair. No out of service signage. The room had adequate lighting & a good sized desk. A working socket to plug in any electronics & an available trash bin. The room was not sound proof so noise level is dependent on the visiting public. That's not something the librarians attempt to control. However, I don't imagine many noisy adult outbursts occur. If you need complete silence I'd suggest you bring noise canceling headphones bc crying babies do happen. The door kicks so you can leave your belongings inside to use the facilities without packing up. The librarians are happy to unlock the door for you upon your return. I'd highly recommend this location & the use of the website. I can't speak on the book availability, bans, or lending practices being I don't have any experience using them. read more

A great resource for genealogy research downstairs and any other general research in the State of Indiana! Microfilm of City Directories, newspapers from all over the state, a great local cliipping files section, still has some actual index cards left, last time I checked. Caroline Scott Harrison Chapter of DAR helps people with genealogy on Wednesday afternoons and the Society of Indiana Pioneers has an office here also. Tons of treasure hunting fun! read more

Beautiful beautiful building with beautiful acoustics for Harp Recital. Abundant resources for people of all ages with plethora of information on Indiana History and of course for the book lovers. The bottom most floor has interactive features that is kid friendly where children can explore facts about Indiana and learn what voting means. Voting booth has simple voting options that shows the kids the pros and cons of a general topic on which a child can vote, and then cumulative results are shared. I thought that was neat. The ceilings are carved out and beautifully designed, along with stained glass windows. Handicap accessible for all floors. Staff is very patient, friendly and very willing to help. Lots of quiet places to sit, relax and to read. Parking meters available off of the street. Parking garage available around the corner. Go explore! I am glad I did! read more

Indiana State Library - The Great Hall on the 2nd floor. - Libraries Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

See all

A beautiful building with excellent meetings rooms.

It was my first time there, It's beautiful on the inside! Just needed to go in and print some documents, the women at the desk were really nice and helpful. Very peaceful, and quiet. Lovely experience. read more

As a historical researcher, I absolutely love the Indiana State Library. The resources available to patrons are varied, extensive, and easy to access. The librarians on the second floor (up the main staircase) are always available to help find the resources you are looking for. Historic newspapers? Don't miss the newspaper index - it is one of the best resources in Indianapolis. The vertical file is another unique collection that is often overlooked, but can provide a starting point for all kinds of topics. Make sure to walk to the original half of the building, you can not miss the gorgeous great hall on the second floor (hint: turn right before going to the Manuscripts Room). Even if you don't have a reason to research at the library, stop by to admire to gorgeous Art Deco architecture of the original library (tip: look for the owls). The manuscripts room is particularly beautiful, as well. There's a gorgeous view of the State Capitol from the manuscripts room. Free Wi-Fi, lots of tables, and a quiet atmosphere. It's also a great place to get work done if you need a place without distractions. Evening hours are available on Thursday nights and they are also open on Saturdays. The collections of the State Library are a real asset to Indiana residents. Every time I research I find something new and exciting to appreciate about the books, newspapers, and other ephemera in the holdings of the Indiana State Library. read more

Beautiful library. Such good lighting and many great rooms to find a quiet place. The only issue can at times be parking. Parking garage off New Jersey (government parking) and street parking with meters. Don't forget to use your park mobile app on street for convenience. read more

See all

I went to a conference recently at the Indiana State Library. It was a wonderful space, with a grand old reading room we used as a meeting place. I loved the stained glass windows and the ceiling paintings of printer marks. The bathrooms were a little far away from our meeting room, but clean. Good location if you have a small conference. read more

I just visited for the first time a few weeks ago. This is one of those places that you know exists but probably haven't visited. Go visit! The building is beautiful and there are lots of resources available. read more