The Indianapolis Public Library has over 24 branch locations and outreach services with continued plans to add more.
But did you know that you can also borrow library books from public book share stations all around the city? The Public Collection is a “public art and literacy project,” combining talent from local Indiana artists with efforts to get Hoosiers reading more. Stocked by the Indianapolis Public Library, Hoosiers are invited to borrow and return books from these tiny libraries at their leisure.
You may have seen these stations around town, perhaps most notably downtown by the City Market or on Monument Circle. But some of these stations are being retired, having been up for almost 4 years – 2 years longer than originally intended, due to their popularity! As some of these stations start to come down, new ones are going up in different parts of the city, giving more Hoosiers access to great books.
Use this guide to keep track of which Public Collection book share stations have been retired and which are still up and running!
Current Locations
Athenaeum
401 East Michigan Street, 46204
This colorful station was designed by artists Quincy Owens and Luke Crawley. The quote written inside the structure reads, “There is no envy, jealousy, or hatred between the different colors of the rainbow. And no fear either. Because each one exists to make the others’ love more beautiful,” by Aberjhani, reminding visitors and passersby to appreciate the differences in each other. And if you’re around Mass Ave after dark, be sure to swing by to see it light up!
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park
601 East 17th Street, 46202
Artist Atsu Kpotufe designed and dubbed this library “The Mind Sails.” Inspired by a ship’s sails, Kpotufe uses this piece to encourage all to battle the raging seas of educational inequality and continue the journey towards equality and justice.
The Alexander Hotel at CityWay
220 E South St, 46225
Coming to us from digital design studio Project One, “Conveyance: A Transformative Library” at CityWay was constructed in 2017. Bright and thoroughly unique, take a load off at one of the benches and enjoy a new read under this gorgeous structure.
Riverside Park
2420 E Riverside Dr, 46208
Designed and created by artist Lashawnda Crowe Storm, this playful structure can be found inside the Riverside Family Center, fueling creativity and a thirst for knowledge.
Horizon House
1033 E Washington St, 46202
Horizon House serves and assists over 3000 of Indianapolis’ homeless population every year. Stuart Hyatt’s lending library design specifically provides those who utilize Horizon House’s services with easily accessible books and a few seats to take a much-needed load off.
Retiring Soon
Monument Circle
1 Monument Circle, 46204
The final countdown is on! This structure will be taken down during the weekend of September 7, so be sure to stop by one last time before it’s gone for good.
White River State Park
801 W Washington St, 46222
Another crowd favorite, take advantage of Kimberly McNeelan’s design while it’s still here.
Officially Retired
- Mary Rigg Neighborhood Center, 1920 W Morris St, 46221
Artist: Phil O’Malley - Eskenazi Health, 720 Eskenazi Avenue, 46202
Artist: Katie Hudnall - Southeast Corridor of the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, South Pennsylvania St. & Virginia Ave.
Artist: Eric Nordgulen - City Market, 222 E. Market St, 46204
Artist: Brose Partington
