Indianapolis, Indiana – After months of anticipation, the Nora Branch of The Indianapolis Public Library is ready to open its doors again—and this time, it’s better than ever. On Saturday, May 3 at 10 a.m., the community is invited to join in a grand reopening celebration that promises music, fun, and a heartfelt welcome to a beautifully reimagined public space.
The reopening event will feature a full lineup of entertainment and activities designed for visitors of all ages. Attendees can enjoy the smooth sounds of jazz saxophonist Guy Holbert, take pictures with the beloved Circle City Ghostbusters, and bring the kids for face painting and balloon animals. In a nod to sustainability and growth, the event will also include the planting of a commemorative tree on library grounds.
“With these renovations, we’ve created a modern, sustainable, and inclusive space that will inspire a sense of belonging and a place to pursue lifelong learning for everyone who walks through our doors,” said Gregory Hill, CEO of The Indianapolis Public Library. “This is part of fulfilling our mission of delivering world-class service and championing equitable access, knowledge, and resources for all.”
The Nora Branch closed its doors on December 10, 2023, to begin a major renovation project. Now, after nearly five months of work and community planning, the branch returns with a host of new features designed to meet the evolving needs of its patrons. Some of the biggest updates include a refreshed main entrance and a convenient drive-up book return, making it easier than ever to stop by and drop off materials.
Inside, visitors will find updated restrooms and enhanced lighting and mechanical systems, all part of the library’s push for greater efficiency and comfort. New group study and tutoring rooms offer quiet, functional spaces for collaboration and learning, while a fully renovated community room with seating for 60 people provides an ideal setting for meetings and events. Parents and caregivers will appreciate the addition of a comfort room near the children’s area, and everyone can benefit from increased access to charging outlets throughout the building.
In keeping with The Library’s focus on sustainability, the branch is also pursuing LEEDv4 Silver Certification, a benchmark that demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility, energy conservation, and resource-efficient design.
“The Nora community is at the heart of everything we do, and this renovation reflects our commitment to providing them with a space that is both welcoming and innovative,” said Josh Crain, Branch Manager for Nora. “I’m excited to see how our patrons will use this updated branch to connect, learn, and grow.”
This transformation didn’t happen in a vacuum. The Library actively engaged the public through meetings and surveys held in early 2023, inviting feedback on everything from layout to services. The project was a collaborative effort, shaped by community voices and brought to life by architectural partners Luminaut and Four Point Design. All told, the renovation cost $2.25 million, funded through bonds approved by the Indianapolis City-County Council, with no changes to the Library’s current debt service tax rate.
For residents of the Nora neighborhood and beyond, the reopening marks more than just a physical refresh—it’s a celebration of shared values, progress, and possibility. Whether you’re visiting for the books, the technology, the events, or simply a quiet place to think, the new and improved Nora Branch is ready to welcome you back.
For more information about the reopening and library services, visit indypl.org.
