After parting with the vinyl shop we turn the corner and come across books outside noted FREE... we immediately made a b-line over to take a look and see what they had to offer. There were alot of books to choose from. we were all able to find something . After which we went in to take a look around. They had a wonderful selection of childrens books, rare books as well. Its a medium sized spot but they fit a childrens corner in. I was pleased to find vintage Richie Rich and Sugar and Spike comic books for 1.00. This was certainly a wonderful place to stumble upon which had alot of gems inside. The vintage type writers were a really cool touch as well. Everything about this place was inviting and warm. At the cash register I came across an assortment of stickers and if you know me, you know I love stickers..Of course I grabbed a couple to complete my purchase. There is a space right by the door that has a sitting area, the leather chair was so comfortable but it was thw huge leather ottoman for me and the chess set that makes you wanna learn to play, if you do t already no how too. I could spend hours sitting and reading. Finally it was time to go but I will most certainly be back to see what other treasures I can find. Until next time Indy reads!!! read more

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I have heard of indy reads, but had never had the chance to visit until recently, it is a well organized space with an impressive selection of books! The shop embraces a cozy and welcoming feel, and the staff was very friendly! Can't wait to go back, check them out if you are in the area! read more

Indy Reads - Bookstores Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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I love Indy Reads! You can donate used books on the first Friday of every month. It's a great way to clear out your bookshelf and feel better about purchasing a book on your way out. Not only is it a non-profit bookstore that will have you walking out with at least one book in hand, but it also has English literacy and other educational classes and opportunities! There is also a book club, author events, and children reading events. A true gem within the Fountain Square Community. read more

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This is a nice little book store. The staff was nice and they had a good selection of books.

For a midsize bookstore, they have a really comprehensive collection of books. I found a book that's a combination of Icelandic history and geography, that also contains knitting patterns! They also have a charitable program that helps literacy initiatives in the city. read more

Now located at the old Fountain Square branch of the Indianapolis Public Library, right at the Fountain intersection. There are both used and new books inside. Adult, YA and children's books. They have a cute corner in the front with a HUGE chair for children's books. They also have a discount section for $1-$2 paperback novels. AND best of all, they have a "Pay what you can" section. It literally says, pay anything over $0.00! They do not buy used books but will take donations. They also have a reading program for children and youth. read more

It's hard to believe it has been 10 years since my original review of Indy Reads, an Indianapolis non-profit bookstore dedicated to improving our community by offering literacy-based programming. This means, of course, that I haven't reviewed Indy Reads since it relocated from its original Mass Avenue spot to its current home in Fountain Square. Indy Reads took over the spot vacated by the former Fountain Square Branch of the Indianapolis Public Library. It's right in the heart of Fountain Square and an absolutely sublime location. Indy Reads essentially has an entire corner of this historic building. It has small classrooms that you can enter from the outside (it appears) - not all are accessible from the outside, however, they are from the inside. I parked a couple blocks away in a side parking lot. I find it works better with my wheelchair than street parking around here. Curb cuts are generally solid, though Fountain Square is an older area and some of the sidewalks are in disrepair. The front entrance here is level to the ground and accessible. I didn't notice right away because their door was actually open, however, they do actually have an automatic door (I honestly almost cried - that's so rare in Fountain Square and so universal in design). As you enter, you're in a bookstore. There's a children's area to the right, a small "hang out" area, a customer service/cashier area to the left, and stacks of books throughout. There's a left hallway that includes classrooms (both for their programs and other events - such as a writer's workshop today). They even have an accessible restroom (again, universal). In addition to being a bookstore (all proceeds go to support their mission), they offer a literacy foundations program, a high school equivalency program, ELL programs, and certifications. They hold regular public events and workshops and have always been supportive of Indiana writers. There was no place in this bookstore I couldn't go in my wheelchair, though at times I did have to maneuver with customers. The efforts at accessibility are obvious and appreciated. There are two places in the store that have a step (one looks like it could be a speaking area), however, in both cases there's also a nicely done ramp. Honestly, I almost cried again. Do you have any idea how rare it is to feel genuinely wanted as a wheelchair using customer? Indy Reads has really made the effort to be welcoming to all. The woman at the customer service area when I arrived was super friendly. I met a handful of others - all super friendly. There's a small carve-out by the customer service area designed for accessibility. Again, incredibly thoughtful (I didn't almost cry this time). What can I say? I cry. Seriously, I loved the Mass Avenue location. I REALLY love this location. Even the customers were amazing - considerate of the wheelchair and friendly/welcoming. I bought a book by Etheridge Knight and left Indy Reads feeling welcomed and ready to return in the near future. On a slightly comical note - I visited before gathering with friends for lunch. I was looking around but ran out of time. I felt so comfy here that after I finished lunch I returned to continue shopping. So yeah, Indy Reads rocks. read more

This is the bookstore for true book lovers! It is absolutely adorable and we found books that we will enjoy to immerse ourselves in reading. read more

Indy Reads - Front of the store - Bookstores Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

A lot has changed at Indy Reads since my last review! They moved from Mass Ave (I assume the Bottleworks Hotel area made that neighborhood too pricey). After being online only during the pandemic they have opened up shop in Fountain Square where the old library was. It's a great space and Indy Reads has done well setting it up. It does feel a lot smaller in the shop area (there's a hallway of offices and possibly places where they do their literacy tutoring, not sure what's out there. The front has a really nice children's area and the back area has several rows of bookshelves - used books that are at a very affordable price. In the front there are new books as well - a very nicely curated showcase. If you're interested in diverse books, this is a great spot. If you want to support a nonprofit that does adult literacy education, this is a great bookstore to shop at. Shop local! read more

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Stumbled in this gem while at Yelp event across the street at Easy Rider Diner which if in area give that place a go. This place is kind of like taking step back in time. It is a bookstore with used and new books. I am an avid reader so always try to check out bookstores like this because I hardly see them as they a rare find. They have events including book clubs so grab their calendar of events while there Profits benefit the city"s illiteracy programs along with helping people of all ages work on GEDs. They have volunteer opportunities which I plan to check out read more

Love this place! So cute and well curated with an amazing selection and a kind, friendly staff. Highly recommended!

Indy reads new location on Fountain Square has a lot more space and accessible since its in the heart of the neighborhood. They have a lot of great bargain buys and a diverse selection of fiction, non-fiction, autobiographies, and more. The offer a lot of great local community events and programs including: chess club, literacy foundations, certifications, book clubs and much more. The staff were a bit pre-occupied and didn't feel very approachable so that's why I'm only giving it 4 stars. read more

Indy Reads - Inside Indy Reads - Bookstores Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

This is a great place to find gently used and new books. Their selection of local Indiana authors and books about Indiana is great. I've been back a few times to browse their shelves and there's always some new finds. Located in the Fountain Square area this is a good one to include when visiting other businesses. read more

Absolutely one of my favorite places in Indy and I love that I can walk there now. When I first moved to Indy, their old location at the end of Mass Ave was the first local place I discovered and it was a favorite stop to bring every visitor from out of town. Their current location in Fountain Square is beautiful! So bright and nice and full of books for every taste, age, budget, and genre. Also all kinds of gift options for book lovers. They rotate out different themed sections at small tables for awareness months, seasons, current events, etc. They have a variety of community events, and accept used book donations the first Friday of the month. Plus all proceeds support their adult literacy program, so it's easy to feel great about whatever you buy. They're in an awesome spot right in the heart of Fountain Square, so street parking is plentiful and free, with lots of fun stores and restaurants nearby. read more

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Indy Reads is a bookstore with heart, providing  free literacy, English language, and workforce readiness programs in the Fountain Square area. I was looking for a very specific book & the very knowledgeable clerk helped me find it. I also got a couple cute stickers before settling in to one of their comfy chairs to start my book. read more

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This place is so cute! I've always wanted to check it out and I'm glad I did. I liked how they had a small section for surprise books where you can buy them based on the description of the book. The book prices also seemed reasonable! They also have a cute kids section that had this tall artsy chair. There was another chair I liked as well that was by the front window and hear the chess table. I would hope to come back to buy a book or see if they have any events :) read more

Indy Reads - Bookstores Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I wish I visited Mass Ave more often, because Indy Reads Books is such a gem in our community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Indy Reads Books closed its doors, as did many other retailers. But, they currently have an online retail shop set up with a limited selection of fiction, nonfiction and children's books in addition to daily staff bundles. I was on the hunt for a few particular titles, so I emailed the store manager {per the website's instructions} and she called me back within a day to take my payment information. Ordering was a breeze, and communication with the IRB staff from payment to pickup was a delight. They gave me a call when my books arrived. An IRB staff member puts your books on a table out front for contactless curbside pickup. I could've hit the easy button and ordered on Amazon Prime and saved myself a 30+ minute drive downtown...but knowing this organization gives back to Indy in big ways, I loved being able to support local for my book purchase. I encourage you to do the same. read more

Indy Reads - Bookstores Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

In addition to being a one of Indy's few (yet spectacular) independent bookstores, IRB has an amazing mission. It originated as not-for-profit org working to improve adult literacy in the city. The bookstore was opened as a way to fundraise - literally all of the profits from this place go straight back to the many tutoring classes they have going on at any given time. They have separate tutoring sessions for English as a second language learners. A teacher directs the class and then students are paired with a volunteer tutor -- note that you don't have to have any foreign language experience to volunteer. Anyways, I digress. The bookstore itself has a very large selection of every genre you can think of. They also sell a smaller selection of DVDs, CDs, cassettes, and vinyl. I'm particularly fond of the fiction, classics, memoirs, and the PBS Great American Read wall. Not everything is used, some books are ordered new, many of which you'll find displayed on the table near the entrance. There's a "catch of the day" cart up front as well, which is always worth a gander. You'll also find a "pay what you want" cart, with a pretty equally random assortment. Oh, and they have gift cards. Oh, oh and you can order/pre-order new books for pick up, just ask at the check out. If you can't find exactly what you're looking for on the floor, it's worth asking an employee. They have a sizable backstock in the basement -- I once mentioned at check out that I couldn't find the particular John Irving title I'd been hoping for, and the employee hopped into the basement and emerged with a paperback copy in, like, 2 minutes, it was awesome. No real surprise though, considering they get between 500 and 1,000 donations per week! IRB is a great place to watch for cool events as well. From book readings/signings, to Drag Queen story hours, to comedy nights, to book clubs, there is always something coming up on their calendar. The bookstore relies on volunteers every day to help intake, sort, and shelve donations. If you're looking to get more involved in the city, this is a buzzing spot. read more

I've heard a lot about Indy Reads since I first moved to the Indianapolis area, but only recently got to check it out. The store is really nice, but when you dig deeper into what Indy Reads is doing you'll see why this is a five star review. They're making huge strides to promote literacy for *everyone* and the bookstore is a vehicle for that. So definitely look into the background if you find yourself strolling through the store. The store itself is broken up like your usual bookstore with fiction, non-fiction, young adult, children's, etc. but the twist here is that it's a solid mix of new and used books. Everything is marked if you do have a preference (and you can often tell) but everything I ran across is in good condition. Prices are great on the used books and new books are typically around the MSRP, so if you're looking to save money I would lean toward the used books or at least be aware that there could be a better deal elsewhere. Parking is at a premium, much like the rest of Mass Ave. But if you go at just the right time you can snag one of the few spots right up front. read more

Indy Reads - Kids section in the back corner of the store is arranged by color, looks really neat and inviting! - Bookstores Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

We've actually visited several times, and I've had mixed feelings. I like the local feel and some of the older books they offer. I've never really found any children's books that I was searching for - I've had better luck looking online. I think, depending on the type of book you're looking for, you may have better luck than me. I've had positive experiences with some of the staff, and awkward experiences with others. read more

I should have read the reviews before going. I had a general sense that Indy Reads Books was an independent book seller and that they had some literacy program affiliation. But I was unaware of all the events and activities the non-profit side of the business participated in. Since I am not that familiar with them, I base my experience upon my visit as someone just stopping in. The shop is located at the bend in Mass Avenue across the street from Rooster's and Black Market. Parking is limited in front of the store, but there is street parking available if you don't mind the walk (some is metered.) Inside the shop, the checkout counter is located near the front and also acts as an information booth. To the left is where you will find cds, dvds, and some books. Throughout the store, you will find a mix of used and new books by general categories. I found it interesting that there were a few nooks where seating was available. In the back on the left is a children's section that is loaded with affordable options. The shop is filled with a diverse selection that apparently has a lot of turnover, so if you don't find something while there, just ask to see if they may have it or can get it for you. The place feels more like a library than a bookstore with its hardwood floors and inviting atmosphere. Definitely worth a stop when exploring Mass Ave. Review #3464 read more

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My favorite bookstore in Indy! If you're looking for your next read, look no further. Located in the heart of fountain square. The have a great selection of new and used books. The selection rotates frequently so every visit is a fun surprise. The workers are so pleasant and always gives great recommendations. My favorite is when they wrap mystery books - some of my favorite reads come from these. Bonus their mission is amazing as you are not only getting a good book when you purchase from here you support literacy! Tip: Parking can be difficult so just be prepared when going on busy days. There is a side and back lot parking but can be full. read more

Indy Reads is one of the jewels of Mass Ave. It feels incredibly "homey" complete with wonderfully "creaky" wood floors and a wonderful children's reading nook. They also have a cool cart towards the front door that is "pay what you can" which is wonderful! They are also ASL friendly and LGBTQIA+ friendly with a large pride flag in the window all year long! I came here with work with some disabled individuals and we felt very welcomed and comfortable! There is also a one stall bathroom (info for trans folx/ friends ) I especially like the info board they have on the wall near the bathroom! Lots of cool things going on in indy that I found out about! They've also got a nicely sized table to do work at! Support local and visit Indy reads today! read more

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This is a great book store with a mix of new and used books. Their mission is to support literacy programs. Staff was kind and welcoming. Kids section has new and used books too. This is a place that wants you to linger for hours. read more

Check out this quaint bookstore. The manager is soooo sweet and her passion for books is nearly palpable. The mission of the store is to promote the overall Indy Reads nonprofit that is dedicated to providing resources for literacy. There are multiple events throughout the month, too .... one day you might get a transgender Canadian comic book author telling her story to a full house of interested fans, and 1st and 3rd Saturdays are therapy reading dogs! It's a great place to find your next read. read more

Independent bookstore with an awesome mission! I love that they have a giant chess board, cool art, lots of seating, and a great initiative that goes to increase literacy for populations with less access! Found many new reads, free parking too! Will be revisiting soon! read more

What a wonderful place. Not only we're there great books for me and my kids, but there is instructional space and clear work to serve the community for literacy, learning, and employment. Not just a great place, but also a great cause. We'll be back! read more

Indy Reads does great things for adult literacy, as I stated in my previous review. Unfortunately since they made their move to Fountain Square it feels like it's lost the charm the Mass Ave location welcomed you with. First, their information and hours on Yelp have not been updated. We tried to go into on Sunday and Yelp says it closes at 4pm but their hours are until 6pm. We tried calling and the phone system even said they were closed. So, they probably are losing business on Sunday's for those two hours they are still open. Second, the best part about the Mass Ave location is that they were dog friendly and the fountain square location told us dogs were not allowed. When I mentioned it to the girl that the mass Ave location allowed dogs and their Yelp page was not updated and said dogs were allowed she acted like she had no idea they ever had another location. I loved walking our dog and popping in to shop for books anytime we were on Mass Ave. it sucks even more because living in Fountain Square I was looking forward to all the walks and book shopping. But again, it stinks they haven't updated their Yelp details. Third, the Fountain Square location feels so sterile compared to their Mass Ave location. The previous location was colorful, had supporting flags flying in the windows, the previous space felt like you were walking into a relaxing book club atmosphere where you could spend hours reading on their comfy chairs. The new Fountain Square location just doesn't have that yet. It's feels like you're walking into a Barnes and Nobles, it's completely lost it's character. Fourth, Im not sure if they have completely taken away the "pay what you can cart" but I didn't see it while I was in there. I'm not sure why you would remove it if they did, but that cart was always so much fun digging through and finding things to read you typically wouldn't because you didn't have to pay $20 a book. Also, by removing this cart it kind of craps on those less fortunate that would get books for their family because they couldn't afford the higher price tags. Also I know several teachers that used to buy from the cart because duh, a teachers salary isn't enough to stock their classrooms with books. It just no longer feels as accessible as it used to feel. I'm hoping they start doing more to make the space feel more welcoming than it currently is. I hope they bring back reading with a drag Queen on the weekend as well. Also, update their details everywhere to reflect their new policies. CHEERS! read more

A wonderful bookstore concept - they sell new and used books and the proceeds go to Indy Reads, which helps fight illiteracy in the Indy community. Be sure to check out the book mural outside and also the gift items - many cute unique things that you can't find anywhere else. read more

Indy Reads - Bookstores Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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Great bookstore. They were located on mass Ave and moved to fountain square. They seem to have more selection at that location on mass Avenue. I do like the location at fountain square just didn't seem to have much selection however, most books are reasonably priced. I would recommend bookstore to book lovers. read more

I had no idea that IRB (Indy Reads Bookstore for those not in the know) would be such a draw for my aunt who lives out of town and her friends, all of whom are instructors/professors/librarians! They were excited because its an independent bookstore, but once I told them about Indy Reads mission to improve Indianapolis' literacy, they were sold! The selection changes regularly, prices are very reasonable, and IRB has in store events. A gem in Indianapolis! read more

Oh my gosh. As a book lover, this place gives me all kinds of nostalgic feels. This little gem is along Mass Ave but is tucked away in its own little corner. It's warm, friendly and a great little place to hide away for an afternoon. I attended a book discussion here one summer afternoon and enjoyed looking at the large children's selection that was available. They accept donations and have all sorts of genres. The gently used books were reasonably priced. I'll definitely return to look around more and to enjoy being in the presence of other folks who still enjoy books in print like myself. read more

A nonprofit, local booksstore! Need I say more? I must, Indy Reads is an ngo who focuses on adult literacy, family literacy and all proceeds from this magical bookstore goes to their literacy programs. Its quaint..the workers are friendly.. It is a rewarding experience..... read more

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I love this bookstore! The shelves are always filled with new and used books and there are multiple book options from their "pay what you can" shelves. I recently discovered the "banned books" shelf and the bottom of this shelf has free banned books! As someone who just recently moved to the area and is unable to get a local library card, this book store is heaven!! read more

Indy Reads Books brings back the joy of going to bookstores. When I take out-of-towners on a walk through downtown or on an Indy bike tour, this is a place I like to stop in. Its right off of the cultural trail and they have bike racks right out front. This place gets me because of its design aesthetic--- it feels warm and inviting and makes you want to learn lol, if that makes any sense. If you are looking for something specific, they may not have it. A lot of the books are donated, but they do have many new titles. They also have a New York Times Best Sellers List on a beam towards the front of the store. I have seen some pretty diverse titles in this store over the last few months. (Someone I brought here commented about lack of diverse titles a couple of years ago.) There are a few comfy chairs, and a nice children's section. The staff is friendly and helpful. Most of the books are regular price, however the new releases can be pretty pricey. They charge list price for those. Someone asked me if this place is a good study spot. I'm going to give a hard no on this. The store is pretty small and there isn't much private seating with tables, plus it just would be too obvious you were straight up loitering. I like that the staff has read and "thumbed up" many books in the store as a recommendation. You will see a "like" tag hanging from the cover of the books they recommend. If you haven't been, this is an enjoyable spot to spend part of your afternoon. Enjoy! read more

Nestled at the often-too-overlooked northeast end of Mass Ave downtown you'll find one of the city's most charming locally-owned bookstores with a mission: literacy. Indy Reads Books is known for going beyond being a book peddler to offering community and literacy-based programming with cool partnership. Another reason for loving IRB is that they're pretty damn stylish. I have yet to do it, but I would like to add this space to my rotation of businesses that make for good popup office hours. The store sells used, new, Hoosier authors and often compiles collections based on themes like Irish literature and authors for St.Patrick's Day. I equally recommend a visit for bibliophiles and Indy lovers alike. read more

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Affordable books + helpful staff + nonprofit = a great place to shop locally. I had only been in the storefront a couple of times as Indy Reads is very active and out and about in the Indy community. I randomly stumbled upon a Harry Potter, hardcover book I had been holding off on because I didn't want to pay $15+ for it as I was seeing at almost all other stores (online and retailers). Oh happy day, I stumbled upon one here at Indy Reads, "used" (but totally had never been), for $5! an incredible find. Great place to shop local and all new books are 20% off. Can't find what you're looking for? No worries; they'll order it for you! read more

Located conveniently across the street from my favorite source of artisan hot chocolate (Best Chocolate in Town): Indy Reads - a charming, friendly, locally owned bookstore with the overarching goal of increasing literacy in Indianapolis. Basically it's run and operated by angels. My favorites: -childrens books for $1 (also, they are organized by color, which is adorable) -coffee for $1 -comfy seating areas that encourage lingering -helpful and educated staff Go get your read on. read more

Indy Reads is one of my favorite independent bookstores to pop into. They have the classics, new releases, cooking, self help, historical, books for teens and littles, and so much more. What I really want to brag about in this review is the staff. I was visiting the store recently with the hope of purchasing a specific book. I didn't find it on the shelf, so I asked on the chance that maybe they might have a copy somewhere I wasn't looking. In case they didn't find it, I set out to look for some other authors I was on the hunt for. The woman helping me was able to find a few of the other authors but not the specific book I was hoping to purchase. No big deal. I kept looking for something that looked interesting to buy. A few minutes later she came over to me with a copy of the book I was looking for. I was so happy and thankful she was able to locate a copy. She said, " I knew there was a copy somewhere." After searching the basement once more there was my book. To me there is something magical about an old bookstore. IRB has the magic. Other things to note about IRB: - They sell new and used books - Prices are fair - Parking is available - They are Independent - There was coffee - Sometimes they host events. read more

Stellar used bookstore and awesome decor. LOVE the giant signs and the comfy armchairs, as well as the ridiculously awesome structure made of books or fake books or whatever it is! The prices are very reasonable, especially for the classics, which are mostly in near mint condition anyway. And, as many have mentioned, they are NON-PROFIT and $5 of every transaction goes toward two hours of adult literacy sessions. How much more perfect can you get??? Forgot to mention - checking in on Foursquare for the first time scores you 20% off your purchase (under 25 dollars). I loaded up on books galore! Don't forget to check out the little share-a-book module outside. It's the neighborly way to say thanks :) read more

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