Learning for a Lifetime
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Cultural and Community Programming
“Libraries have the power to bring us back together—to hear a famous author read from her new book, to discuss issues facing our communities, to view a special exhibit on a timely topic, to learn more about the people and world around us. And best of all, libraries are inclusive—everyone who walks in the door is welcome.”
- John Thompson, Entrepreneur & Chairman of the Board, Indianapolis Museum of Art |
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As Indianapolis changes, the rest of the world does as well. Information plays a critical role; without it Hoosiers could not keep up with the hectic pace of today's world. An individual's ability to thrive depends not only upon finding relevant, accurate facts and navigating technology, but also upon analyzing the information received. While the media provides information, it does not provide a venue to discuss and truly comprehend the changes occurring in the community and the world.
As individuals navigate the dynamic environment around them, they seek understanding and community. Residents want answers and dialogue around questions, ranging from "which candidate's economic policy will best benefit my family?" to "how does the life sciences initiative affect me?" to "what do I have in common with my new neighbors?" The Library creates opportunities to garner information and engage in discussion with our neighbors. The Library connects people and place, thus creating to build a stronger sense of community.
Creating a Venue for Community Discussion
The Library is a community gathering place - a source for learning about the changing world, initiating dialogue about current events, and more. Currently, the Library and Library Foundation offer a modest selection of programs. To meet the diverse interests and needs of the community, the Library will increase the number of programs offered throughout the county. As a result, the Library will be better able to:
- Offer programs which address important community issues. Librarians will work to develop speakers' series, discussion groups, exhibits and presentations which address the political, economic, and social issues facing the city, nation, and world. By building understanding and prompting discussion, participants will help build a vibrant community.
- Meet the enhanced demand for programs. The Library currently offers programs, such as its lecture series, which have been very popular. Unfortunately, funding limits the number and scope of them. The Library wants to increase the number of lectures and bring more best-selling authors to the community.
- Provide an avenue for patrons to expand their world, increase their knowledge, and nurture their passion. By providing a community gathering place filled with information and ideas, programs will help foster analytical and critical thinking skills. Examples of activities include art displays and cultural exhibits that inform and educate and related events that encourage visitors to discuss issues of the day and to hear diverse perspectives.
- Fulfill the Library's vision for meeting the information needs of local residents. New branches have been successful in drawing patrons through the doors. Dynamic programs, community outreach events, traveling exhibits, and other activities will ensure the Library meets the changing needs of patrons and connects the greatest number of residents with the resources of their neighborhood library.
As a result, Library facilities will become even more vibrant community centers that foster dialogue and provide all community members educational and cultural programs.
Establishing Programs within Local Communities
A wide range of programs will address neighborhood needs and interests and promote dialogue on humanities subjects. Since programs will be offered at all of the system's locations, each branch will be able to customize programming to meet the needs of its service area. Examples could include:
- Lectures featuring local, national and international authors.
- Traveling exhibits which feature Indiana's vibrant communities, including immigrants from Mexico, China, India, Philippines, Vietnam, Russia, Latin America, and other regions.
- Community discussions at branches to analyze the addition or loss of a local employer and how it will impact the surrounding neighborhood.
- Concert series at branches, featuring jazz and highlighting the history behind its creation, enabling families to enjoy music.
All programs will be available free-of-charge, ensuring that everyone can participate. Through author lectures, community discussions, exhibits, and programs, Indianapolis residents can learn more about the ever-transforming world and actively participate in building a strong community.
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Jazz Trio Makes Big Impression on Young Man
Humanities programs have a profound influence. In 2003, the Jack Gilfoy Trio played at the Interim Central Library. Their concert highlighted the progression of jazz throughout history. While many patrons enjoyed the afternoon, it had a particularly significant impact upon one young man. A librarian who was present that afternoon writes, "A young man between the ages of 10 and 13 listened raptly to the music and was on the edge of his seat the whole time.
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