Community
The Whispering Shelf Opens in Indianapolis
“Find a book. Stay a while.”
Lena Burt has always loved reading, and bookstores have offered her a place to escape into a magical space of imagination and creativity. Combining her academic credentials in social work with her years-long passion for community work, she set out to create a third place in Indianapolis; thus inspiring The Whispering Shelf.
The now renovated, red brick building sits in the heart of the Lockerbie Square neighborhood in downtown Indianapolis. Offering neighbors and passersby a warm invitation to peruse and linger in the shop’s collection of new and used books, its compact footprint, colorful shelving, and soft lighting add to its innate charm.
Holding true in their commitment to benefit the surrounding community, TWS partners with local teachers in efforts to ensure fresh and relevant books are in stock to capture the interest of even the youngest minds, sparking a lifelong love of reading.
“We believe that the written word has the power to change ideas, minds, and lives.”
Lena’s mission is simple: promote love of reading by providing a space that is accessible to everyone. Believing that reading helps people to better understand, empathize, and have compassion for others, she wanted to create an environment that invites the imagination to soar. Aside from being a well-stocked shop, TWS also hosts monthly events that engage a whole host of interests: trivia, book club, live book readings, and story time for the littlest readers are among the offerings.
Local to the area? Stop by 414 North College Avenue in Indianapolis to find your next great story or visit them online at TheWhisperingShelf.com.
The Whispering Shelf is open Wednesday-Saturday, 10a-6p; Sundays 10a-4p.