INDIANAPOLIS — For the second time in eight years, The Indianapolis Public Library has achieved national recognition as the recipient of the prestigious Library of the Future Award, presented by the American Library Association and Information Today, Inc. publishing company. The award was presented at the annual ALA Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida on June 26.
IndyPL was cited for its innovative eBook Tinker Stations that provide one-on-one support, both in person and via a designated phone line, to help patrons navigate through today’s evolving technologies. Developed in response to the increased demand for eBooks, the Tinker Stations introduce individuals to using their personal devices to download items from the Library’s growing digital collections, including eBooks, eAudiobooks and free streaming of videos and music. Since the project’s 2012 inception, an estimated 6,000 Library users have received Tinker Station assistance from expert Library staff at various IndyPL locations.
The project has grown from targeting seniors to attracting a multi-generational audience interested in greater usability and newer applications. The Tinker Stations serve as an effective tool to support changing user needs and also as a prime vehicle for promoting the Library’s digital collections.
Patrons can drop in to the Tinker Stations during free two-hour sessions. No registration is required. For times and locations, visit indypl.org. The free Tinker Station helpline is also available at 317- 275-4500.
In 2009, IndyPL received ALA’s Library of the Future Award for the Learning Curve at Central Library, a high tech learning environment for children of all ages, teens and families.