Indiana State Library and Historical Bureau facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Indiana State Library and Historical Building
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 Location in Indianapolis
Location in Indianapolis
Location in Indiana
Location in the United States
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| Location | Indianapolis, Indiana |
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| Built | 1934 |
| Architect | Pierre, Edward Dienhart Joseph; Wright, George Caleb |
| Architectural style | Classical Revival, Art Deco |
| NRHP reference No. | 95000207 |
| Added to NRHP | March 3, 1995 |
The Indiana State Library and Historical Bureau is a large public library in Indianapolis, Indiana. It is the biggest public library in Indiana. This library holds over 60,000 special old papers called manuscripts. It opened in 1934 and has collected many books on all sorts of topics.
Contents
History of the Indiana State Library
The Indiana State Library and Historical Bureau first opened its doors to the public in 1934. But the idea for a state library started much earlier.
Early Beginnings of the Library
The first steps to create a state library began when Indiana was still a territory. Its capital was in Corydon at that time. This makes the library the oldest part of the Indiana government.
The first actual Indiana state library opened on February 11, 1825. This happened after the capital moved to Indianapolis. The secretary of state acted as the first librarian.
In 1841, the library became its own separate organization. Later, in 1867, the library's law books were moved. They went to the Supreme Court to start the Supreme Court Law Library. This library now has 70,000 books.
Growing the Collection
The State Board of Education took charge of the library in 1895. Then, the Department of Education took over in 1933. Between 1895 and 1933, the library collected more materials than it had in all its past years combined!
At first, only state employees and government officials could use the library. In 1929, a small two-cent tax was added to help get money for a new building. Architects sent in their ideas for the new building in 1931. It was built based on designs by Pierre & Wright Architects.
Important Leaders and Recognition
In 1945, Howard Henry Peckham led the library. He was a historian who studied early American history. He was the first to publish the war diaries of Henry Dearborn. Dearborn was a soldier in the Revolutionary War and later a government official under President Thomas Jefferson.
The library building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1995. This means it is recognized as an important historical place.
The Library Building and Its Art
The Indiana State Library building is made from special materials. These include Indiana limestone, sandstone, and walnut wood.
Inside the Library
Inside, you can see many beautiful features. There are shiny brass decorations and colorful murals on the walls. The walls are also covered with walnut wood panels. You can also find pretty stained glass windows and amazing woodcarvings.
Outside the Library
The outside of the building has special sculptures. These were designed by Leon Hermant and carved by Adolph Wolter.
What You Can Find at the Library
The Indiana State Library has six main parts, called divisions. Each division helps people in different ways.
- Talking Book and Braille Library: This part helps people who are blind or have trouble reading regular print. They offer audiobooks and books in Braille.
- Genealogy: Here, you can research your family history and learn about your ancestors.
- Indiana Collection: This division focuses on books and materials about Indiana's history and culture.
- Rare Books and Manuscripts: This is where very old and special books, letters, and other unique documents are kept.
- Reference and Government Services: This part helps people find information and learn about government topics.
- Library Development: This division works to help other libraries in Indiana grow and improve.
In 1993, the library had a huge collection. It included 60,000 books and pamphlets, 3,500 collections of old papers, 1.5 million pictures, and 1,000 maps. This collection covers the history of Indiana and the history of the Old Northwest region.
The Indiana Historical Bureau
The Indiana Historical Bureau is also located at the library. It started in 1915 as the Indiana Historical Commission. Its first job was to get ready for Indiana's 100th birthday as a state.
The bureau mainly works on placing new historical markers around Indiana. These markers tell about important places and events in the state's past. The bureau also encourages learning about Indiana history. You can even find a gift shop run by the bureau at the library.
Images for kids
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The Indiana State Library and Historical Building in Indianapolis.
