IMC Public Library Central Library

A library, to modify the famous metaphor of Socrates, should be the delivery room for the birth of ideas—a place where history comes to life. - Norman Cousins

Most visitors to any city would not consider taking a trip to the local library, but the Central Library division of the Indianapolis/Marion County Public Library, just north of downtown Indianapolis, is a truly historical treasure, and much more than a storage space for books and periodicals.

A striking building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Central Library, as it is known in the Circle City, is a treasure trove of historic collections, information, technology, art, music, and yes – even books.

Designed in 1917 by architect Paul Philippe Cret in the Greek Doric style, the Central Library re-opened its doors in December of 2007 after extensive renovation and expansion, including a brilliant blue-hued six-story arcing glass addition to the north side (rear) of the building. The outside approach to the Central Library is magnificent, with its broad progression of steps leading up to the entrance, proudly fortified by a series of Greek pillars.

The library opens up into the main Atrium, a remarkable space surrounded by curved steel arches. The Atrium houses the Central Library's information desks, photocopiers, computers, and an exhibition area.

The Library has six floors and is very patron-friendly with computer stations on every floor to aid navigation of resources. There are three main reading rooms, a multitude of meeting rooms, computer and training labs, plus the new Clowes Auditorium that seats 350 people for lectures and live performances.

The Nina Mason Pulliam Indianapolis Special Collections Room houses archival materials for adults and children. This section includes fiction and nonfiction books by local authors, photographs, scrapbooks, manuscripts, autographed editions and letters.

The second floor of the Library hosts The Learning Curve, a high tech, high energy, hands-on information environment designed for children. The Library also hosts a vast compilation of books, CDs, DVDs, newspapers, microfilm and an impressive collection of printed music and audiovisual materials.

In addition, Three meeting spaces are offered for public use: the Goodrich Houk Meeting Room (seats 45), the Knall Meeting Room (seats 60) and the Riley Meeting Room (seats 100). These spaces, located on the second floor of the new Central Library addition, may be reserved for use during the Central Library's standard hours or occasionally for after-hours events. Meetings can be booked by calling 317-275-4020.

HelloIndianapolis Tip: The Central Library hosts many Indianapolis events so check their website frequently for classes, lectures and entertainment. There’s even a popular series of free classes that teach beginning and intermediate Microsoft software programs. The Library has free wi-fi and a café (a bit on the pricey side) on the second floor.

- by Jim Brown , Indianapolis Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)