The Indianapolis Public Library Foundation

The Foundation funds special collections and technology to help The Library provide resources for patrons. Major examples include: Marion County internet library--a collection of online databases The Library administers and shares with select high school media centers and university libraries throughout The city. Encyclopedia of indianapolis--a partnership with The polis center at Indiana university Indianapolis, The Library continues developing and expanding this interactive online repository of Indianapolis' past and present. Device lending--to help bridge The digital divide, The Foundation supports device lending at several Library locations across The city with Library patrons checking out wi-fi hotspots, chromebooks or both to use at home for job searches, educational needs and more. Bunny bag books--bags full of age-appropriate picture books for early readers that can be checked out by both individuals and childcare centers.

The Foundation funds Library programs that highlight The cultures and communities in Indianapolis. Examples of major programs include: meet The artists--a two-month exhibition of local and regional black artists celebrating african american culture and heritage; The exhibit's gala features live performances, a fashion show, and an opportunity to speak with The artists on exhibition. Concert series--musicians from The Indianapolis symphony orchestra and other local ensembles perform concerts throughout The year at central Library and select branches, exposing patrons to a variety of musical styles. Center for black literature & culture--a dedicated space at central Library celebrates The vibrant heritage and triumphs of those born of african roots and provides a place for all who are interested in exploring this rich culture and heritage through collections, resources, and programs. Programs for immigrants and refugees--non-native english speakers can improve their literacy skills through several programs, including pathways to literacy and conversation circles.

The Foundation funds a series of programs and outreach efforts designed to help children become more capable, enthusiastic readers and savvy, productive users of technology. Offered at all 25 Library locations throughout The city, these programs are highly accessible and reach underserved audiences, as 19% of Marion County children younger than age 18 live in poverty. Examples of major children's programs are: summer reading program--to counter summer learning loss, this program rewards children for reading over The summer months and had 22,000 youth participants enrolled who read more than 16 million minutes. Reading ready--this multi-faceted initiative helps children under The age of five develop early literacy and technology skills needed for a successful start in school. Reading ready includes: on The road to reading--each month The Library provides story programs to approximately 60 home and faith-based daycares in low- and moderate-income areas with each session consisting of a story program and a delivery of bunny bags filled with picture books for children to enjoy between visits, as well as early literacy professional development for childcare providers; preschool programs & reading ready time--this initiative allows preschool children to engage in learning through in-branch and recorded video programs to experience art, music, sports and more with The videos often engaging many of The same presenters to do recorded programs for childcare centers and classrooms that cannot attend in-person programs; and staffing with private funds supporting The Library's herbert simon early literacy specialist who oversees and evaluates reading ready programming, as well as part-time outreach staff who implement on The road to reading.

The Foundation funds adult/lifelong learning programs to bolster workplace skills, offer training on The latest technology, and provide outlets for pursuing hobbies and exploring other topics of interest. Major examples of programs include: early childhood educator workshops--childcare providers engage in workshops, presented virtually and in person, about best practices for teaching preschool children to earn credits for credentialing and to improve The quality of The care they provide. Job center--adults needing support in job searches, resume writing and more can meet with dedicated staff at The east thirty-eighth street branch for assistance. Technology programs--programs include computer classes taught in spanish and english, as well as workshops at a variety of skill levels for adults to explore coding. Workshops on gardening, cooking, personal finance, and health are examples of other lifelong learning opportunities The Library provides. The Foundation provides support for individual Library locations (central Library and each branch), books purchased through tribute gifts, and other enhancements to Library programs. In addition, The Foundation provides support for some Library staffing costs associated with implementing The aforementioned programs, as well as professional development opportunities for Library staff, and funding activities to show appreciation for Library volunteers and staff for their contributions and efforts throughout The year.