If you’re like me and the other 280,183 library card holders in Marion County, reading has helped get you through the boredom of self-isolation due to COVID-19. Now is normally the time of year that the Indianapolis Public Library would be inviting you to join us around the city for fun book-related events as part of our Adult Summer Reading Program. But this isn’t a “usual” summer and so we’ve come up with some fun ways to read and share books, in a socially-distant way!
This year’s theme is “Imagine Your Story” and the program is made up of 20 mostly Library-or-reading related activities because, well…we’re the Library! Register through the Beanstack app or by calling the Library, and then get started: read a cookbook & make a recipe, write a review in the Library catalog, share a book “shelfie” (#ASRP2020). Each completed activity earns a virtual ticket for a drawing prize, and completing 12 activities earns a free tote bag (*while supplies last). Our librarians have created some great lists of books to read and you can find their reviews embedded in our catalog!
Whether you’re stuck inside or enjoying the outdoors, take some time to re-imagine your life through the stories you read and discuss during our online book discussions. Discover your family history during staff-led workshops on Genealogy and African-American Genealogy and write about your life in workshops presented by the Indiana Writers Center (Memory Workshop, Drawing Out Your Story, Bullet Journal Workshop & Imagine Your Life as a Poem). All book discussions and workshops will be held online.
Maybe this sounds great, but you like to read print books, not e-books. No problem – we now have several locations open for curbside service where you can place materials on hold & make an appointment to pick them up. Or maybe you love reading or listening to books on your phone or device, but have never gotten your library card – we’ve got you covered there, too! Apply online.
Even if you’re not a reader, your library card is still very useful! You can stream free music and movies and download magazines. You can learn a new language with our interactive courses, access our research databases, find support for your small business or take a computer coding class. Join the Fit Lit Book Discussion Group and read your way to a healthier lifestyle, with the support of community health partners. All Library programs and classes are FREE, and our helpful staff are just a phone call away!
The Indianapolis Public Library has everything you need for information and entertainment, especially if you’re home alone. So stream a movie or listen to an audiobook while jogging, courtesy of your free library card. And then sign up for the Adult Summer Reading Program and enter to win virtual drawing prizes (and tell us how you like the Beanstack app!). Happy Reading!
About Melissa:
Melissa Wooton is the Adult Services Manager for the Indianapolis Public Library, where she oversees programs and services for patrons ages 18 & over. When she’s not working, she’s likely reading, playing with her kiddo or binge-watching Schitt’s Creek. She imagines her story in an un-cluttered house.
