Central Library opening

After a seemingly endless and breathless wait, the Central Library will reopen Dec. 9, with a brief public ceremony followed by an afternoon of special activities for all ages from 1-5 p.m. Presentations at the ceremony include local author Mari Evans reading her specially-written poem for Central Library, “Paean for a New Library.”

Library staff will be available to help guide patrons throughout the new 293,000-square-foot facility, or patrons may tour on their own along one of three “Discovery Paths.” Entertainment includes the Circle City Sidewalk Stompers, Young Audiences of Indiana, the “Wild Mercy” Celtic Band, pianist Darrin Vincent and sections of the Indianapolis Symphonic Band. Many children’s activities and demonstrations on library collections and services will also be offered.

Parking in Central Library’s garage will be free on Grand Opening Day. Free parking also will be available in the Safeco Insurance parking garage on the corner of Illinois and North streets. Free shuttle service from that intersection will transport visitors directly to Central Library, which is located at 40 E. St. Clair St. For more info: www.imcpl.org.