Powerful Tools to Motivate Children to Read: Celebrate Free Comic Book Day with The Indianapolis Public Library on May 4

On May 4, 2024, the Indianapolis community is invited to stop by any Indianapolis Public Library location to celebrate Free Comic Book Day by picking up a free comic book, while supplies last. Comic books are available for all ages.

Free Comic Book Day is an annual, nationwide event conducted in cooperation with comic book industry publishers and retailers. The event invites anyone to stop by a participating comic book shop, bookstore, or Library to take home and keep a free comic book.

“Comics and graphic novels serve as powerful tools to motivate children to read, empowering them to practice their literacy skills as they enjoy captivating stories,” said Devery North, school age and family program specialist at The Indianapolis Public Library.

Downtown Comics generously donated comic books to The Library, and no Library card is required to pick up a comic book. Guests will be able to choose titles from popular franchises including Disney, Pokemon, Star Wars, and Monster High. IndyPL staff will be on hand to help guests make their selections.

"Free Comic Book Day puts comic books into the hands of kids, sparking their imagination and creativity,” said Mike Costello, owner of Downtown Comics. “Some kids might be intimidated by a book that takes them longer to read but enjoy sitting down with a comic book that they can finish in 15 minutes. Partnering with The Indianapolis Public Library is very gratifying because I've spent time visiting schools and libraries to share comic books, and parents tell me that after getting their kid a comic book, the child devoured it. It's a great medium for igniting a love of reading."

Beech Grove was the first Indianapolis Public Library location to host Free Comic Book Day before the Branch merged with The Indianapolis Public Library system in 2016. The program has expanded to all Library locations.