INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Public Library (IndyPL) recently broke ground on a new Glendale Branch Library, drawing an eager crowd of more than 150 community leaders, patrons, and stakeholders. The 24,800 square foot Branch, projected to open in the summer of 2023, will be located at the site of the former John Strange Elementary School at 3660 E. 62nd St.
“We are excited for this Branch to have a stand-alone building after being in the Glendale Shopping Center for more than 20 years,” said Judy Gray, Glendale’s branch manager. “It will increase access to our services and collections while eliminating the need to lease property.”
The Broad Ripple community has enjoyed Library service at various sites since 1930. The first stand-alone Library opened in 1949 adjacent to School No. 80 and continued at that location until a larger branch opened in Broad Ripple Park in 1986. Facing a need for continued growth, the current Glendale Branch was constructed in 2000 and became the country’s first full-service Library in a major shopping mall. Constructing a stand-alone Branch will help The Library achieve its goal of owning all of its locations.
Before breaking ground on this Branch, the architects led virtual input meetings and conducted a survey to learn what services, amenities, and priorities meant the most to patrons. The Branch will have drive-up material returns, access to public transportation, a community meeting room with a capacity of 100 people, and LEEDv4 Silver Certification. IndyPL estimates that 225,000 – 250,000 patrons will visit the Branch annually.
The $15.3 Million project is funded by bonds approved by the Indianapolis City-Council Council that will be assessed without any increase in IndyPL’s current debt service tax rate.
A grand opening is anticipated for Summer 2023.
