The Indianapolis Public Library recently celebrated its hundred year anniversary. The original building, along St. Clair Street, was constructed between 1916-1917. At the time, it was considered one of the greatest library structures in the US. In 2007, the 6-story addition, near 9th Street, was completed, which again, was hailed as one of the “50 Best Libraries in America” by Elle Decor magazine.
Everything about the Central Library was designed with patrons in mind. It is a joy to spend all day visiting this wonderful place.
There is some street level parking around the building, but it is worth the few dollars to park in the underground garage, located on Pennsylvania Street. Everything is super accessible, from automatic doors to the elevators that take you to the atrium. If you have trouble with stairs, enter either through the garage or one of the doors around the newer building.
The only difficulty you may experience inside the Central Library is due to the size. The entire library was designed with the utmost attention to accessibility, but the building is large, so if you need it, bring your wheels.
When using the newer section of the library, remember everything starts at the center. There is a central area on each floor with the elevators, escalators, restrooms, water fountains and library search computers.
Again, the Central Library is ultra-accessible, including the restrooms, which are conveniently located near the center of each floor, usually around the corner from the elevators. You will find the restrooms nicely equipped to handle disabled patrons.
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