Indy Standard

In a significant development for Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), students now have access to over two million books and resources through a collaboration with the Indianapolis Public Library (IndyPL) and other Shared System members. "This expansion marks the culmination of a decades-long partnership between IPS and IndyPL, further enhancing students’ ability to explore literature, conduct research, and engage with a world of knowledge," said Joe Troyer, IPS district media coordinator.

The initiative expands access to literature significantly. "Our students now have access to a world of books, expanding from just a few thousand to hundreds of thousands," Troyer noted. He emphasized that this membership opens doors to endless adventures and inspiration, fostering a lifelong love of reading and learning for every student.

To commemorate this expansion, IPS and IndyPL officials plan a special event on April 9 at the William McKinley School 39 Library. This will coincide with National Library Week, recognizing the role libraries play in community education and development. During this week, libraries and their workers are celebrated for their contribution to transforming lives and communities.

Students now have the option to borrow materials from their school or IndyPL's extensive catalog using their IndyPL Library card. Additionally, families benefit as physical books can be delivered directly to schools for easier access. "The Indianapolis Public Library and Indianapolis Public Schools have a shared mission and a proud history of empowering the Indianapolis community through literacy and education," said Gregory A. Hill, Sr., CEO of The Indianapolis Public Library. "By welcoming all IPS schools into the Shared System, we are ensuring that every student has unlimited access to high-quality books and research tools—unlocking knowledge, sparking curiosity, and inspiring a lifelong love of learning."

As part of this expansion, eight new IPS-managed schools joined the Shared System in the 2024-25 school year. Consequently, all 41 IPS-managed schools, including various elementary, middle, and high schools, are now part of the system. Moreover, four IPS-network Innovation schools also participate in this initiative.

Troyer shared that IPS is on track to circulate over 150,000 books this year, marking a 29.9% increase from the last year. The trend shows a significant rise of book circulations, with projections suggesting more than eight books per IPS student annually.

Casey O’Leary, media specialist at Mary Nicholson School 70, highlighted the equitable access to a broad range of materials and resources that this partnership provides. "Any book available in the Indianapolis Public Library system can be requested, borrowed, and enjoyed—removing barriers that might otherwise limit students’ access to knowledge," she stated.

O’Leary described the initiative as a means to level the educational playing field, allowing students, teachers, and staff to access databases and materials that might not otherwise be available in individual school libraries. "The Shared System bridges that gap, ensuring students always have what they need to grow as readers and learners—at no cost to them," she affirmed.