We are back with Part 2 of our “Fun Indy Library Events” series. It is amazing how many things there are to do at your local library. In this series, our goal was to expose readers to the diversity of events happening at local libraries. In this article, we are discussing Indianapolis Public Library’s Central Campus, Hamilton East Public Library, Speedway Public Library, and Hancock County Public Library.
Indianapolis Public Library – Perhaps the library with the most events out of all we covered is the Indianapolis Public Library. With so many events occurring at multiple locations, it was difficult to choose just a few events to highlight. That being said, one event that really stands out is its Classical Concert series with the ISO. During the months of June and July, it hosts three free concerts. What a great way to experience beautiful music on a budget! Similar to some of the libraries we discussed in the previous article, the Indianapolis Public Library also has a “summer showtime” film series. In this series, the Library shows numerous blockbuster films such as Thor: Ragnarock. These films vary by location and time, so be sure to check the Library’s calendar for details.
If you want a more hands-on experience, check out the Library’s Game Nights or Maker Space events. Kicking it back to the old days, the library hosts numerous game nights throughout the summer to bring families together and provide a fun environment. The Library also host numerous creative events in its Maker Space. These events cover everything from knitting to 3D printing, so this is a great place to let your creative side out.
Classical Concerts at Central with the ISO
July 1, 2:00pm
July 15, 2:00pm
Summer Showtime
Varies based on location
Thor: Ragnarock to The Incredibles
Game Night
July 2, 5:30-7:30pm
July 9, 5:30-7:30pm
July 16, 5:30-7:30pm
July 23, 5:30-7:30pm
July 30, 5:30-7:30pm
Makerspace (coloring café. papercrafting, knit one, crochet too, keeping you in stitches, 3D Printing)
Times vary based on program
Hamilton East Public Library – Hamilton East Public Library is all about engaging library-goers in unique fun events at its Fishers and Noblesville locations. One of its most fun events is all about dancing, aptly named “You Should be Dancing!” At this event, participants, “learn some solo moves in a fun and nonjudgemental environment.” Sounds like a fun time! Speaking of a fun time, Hamilton East Public Library also hosts a film series titled “Teen Movie Night: Libraries Rock!” The June and July films are listed below.
Who would not want to attend an event solely focused on tea? At Tea Types 101 on June 7, library-goers can learn about different types of tea and receive samples from Tina Jesson of Tina’s Traditional Old English Kitchen. You may have had Tina’s tea before if you have ever been to Tina’s Traditional Tea Room. Last, but certainly not least, the Hamilton East Public Library is opening a makerspace called Ignite Studio at the Fishers Library. At the Grand Opening ceremony on July 21, there will be a ribbon cutting, live performances, tours and hands-on activities.
Teen Movie Night: Libraries Rock! (times and locations vary)
June 26 – Hairspray (PG)
July 10 – Mamma Mia! (PG-13)
July 24 – Annie 2014 (PG)
Ignite Studio Grand Opening
July 21, 11:00-4:00pm – Fishers
Speedway Public Library – One of the rare holdouts among the Indianapolis libraries, Speedway Public Library is a beloved local library for Speedway residents. The Library offers many fun events throughout the summer. Much like the other libraries, it hosts a “Family Film Fest” once a month, featuring a free family film. The Library also loves hands-on activities, with multiple craft events throughout the month. One event occurring on June 17, allows library-goers to create their own bath bombs. Participants get to make bath bombs and bring home their own.
If you are looking for something a bit more science-y, fear not, Professor Steve is coming to the rescue! On July 10, the Speedway Public Library is hosting Professor Steve’s Super Sonic Sound Show, an event teaching children how their ears and sound waves work. Professor Steve brings in a variety of unique instruments for kids to examine including, “water glasses, pipes, saws, and more.” This should certainly be a unique event! On a more play-centered note, Speedway Public Library also hosts a “block party” for all Lego fanatics where library-goers can build their own structures and some structures will even be displayed in the library.
Family Film Fest
July 3, 2:30pm – Coco
Professor Steve’s Super Sonic Sound Show
July 10, 2:30pm
LEGO Club
July 5, 6:00pm
Hancock County Public Library – Last but certainly not least, Hancock County Public Libraries hosts a plethora of unique summer events. One of its most popular events is Yoga. Every Saturday, all the Yogis emerge to take the Classic Yoga, Yoga: Experienced, and Yoga: Beginner courses. All are free, so there is no reason not to check them out! The Library is also hosting the Indianapolis Jazz Orchestra on the 4th to bring some of that big band jazz style to Hancock County.
If that was not fantastic enough, the Library is also hosting a screening of Moana in Riley Park on June 8th. All that guests need to do is bring their own lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the film. Speaking of wonderful cultural events, the Hancock County Public Library is hosting the Indianapolis Opera’s Journey Through the Eras, a show highlighting the various genres of music such as, “opera, musical theater, art songs, and classic “crooner,” tunes. This is certainly a free event that music lovers will not want to miss!
Yoga Saturdays
Classic Yoga, 9:15-10:15am, 10:15-11:15am
Yoga: Experienced, 1:30-2:30pm
Yoga: Beginner, 2:45-3:45pm
Journey through Eras: Indianapolis Opera
June 26, 7:00-8:00pm
Let us know which fantastic library event you end up attending!
