INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Public Library and Metropolitan School District of Warren Township have completed the distribution of Indy Library cards to nearly 13,000 district students in grades 1 – 12. Following last year’s distribution to approximately 15,000 Lawrence Township school students, the Warren Township event represents the next step toward IndyPL’s goal to provide a Library card to every public school student in Marion County.
The special new Library card, called the e-resource card, allows students to access the Library’s growing collection of digital materials, such as eBooks, eAudiobooks, streaming video, streaming music and magazines, as well an array of online databases to help in their academic research. The card allows for limited borrowing of books and physical materials, but young people can visit any IndyPL location with a parent or guardian to upgrade to a full Library card.
Research demonstrates a strong link between access to high quality library services and academic achievement. By providing access to IndyPL’s online offerings beyond what’s available in a school’s library, students can be inspired to become better readers and learners as well as develop the digital research skills necessary for later academic success.
