New Indy library branch set to open
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (Inside INdiana Business) – The new Martindale-Brightwood Branch of The Indianapolis Public Library will open its doors to the public on Saturday. The library says the $5.9 million construction project on the city’s east side was part of a series of capital improvements identified in its strategic plan.
The 15,000-square-foot branch at 2434 N. Sherman Drive replaces the former storefront facility the library had rented across the street in the Brightwood Shopping Center.
“We are at the midst of a great renaissance here in Martindale-Brightwood, and the new library is a part of the social and economic changes that will increase access to lifelong learning and mental recreation for neighbors of all ages,” said Amina Pierson of the Martindale-Brightwood Community Development Corp.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett will Saturday join library officials for a ceremonial ribbon cutting.
The library says the new branch features expanded spaces for children and teens, new study and community meeting areas, enhanced technology and designs for greater energy and resource conservation.
The library says the branch aims to serve as an anchor to stimulate neighborhood development. As a partner in the Brightwood Education Zone, the branch will join Martin University to provide comprehensive educational support and services to mothers and children through grade five.
Library trustees officially changed the branch’s name from the former Brightwood Branch to the Martindale-Brightwood Branch to more appropriately reflect the community it serves.
Due to COVID-19, the branch says it will observe strict patron capacity limits and institute various measures to ensure patron safety.