Simple Strength Training, Cardio Drumming, Family Stories: Writing Our Roots, Relationships & Legacies, WitLITS Book Discussion

About this event

Simple Strength Training

10:30am - 11:30am

Warren Branch

Join Becca Biedler with ID Fit during this series to learn how strength training can improve physical strength, cognitive function, metabolic health, balance, and much more! Exercises are full body but can be adapted to participant needs, and you will benefit whether you're attending just one or all of the classes in this series!

Participants will gain access to Becca's online platform to continue exercises at home, too!

Learn more at the ID Fit website.

We encourage you to bring a water bottle to class.

Meanwhile, enjoy this book list about the RBG Workout! RBG attributed her longevity and success to her strength training in older adulthood!

This program is made possible by The Indianapolis Public Library Foundation with support from a contribution by Honda. Honda is dedicated to helping people reach their own life's potential.

Cardio Drumming

10:30am - 11:15am

East 38th Street Branch

Join Dakota Nicley of the Guitar Academy of Indiana to explore how exercise can feel like fun!

Participants can gain:

You may also enjoy this FitLit book list about Feel-Good Fitness.

This program is made possible by The Indianapolis Public Library Foundation with support from a contribution by Honda. Honda is dedicated to helping people reach their own life's potential.

Family Stories: Writing Our Roots, Relationships & Legacies

10:30am - 12:00pm

Glendale Branch

Every family carries stories — the ones told around kitchen tables, the ones carefully preserved, and sometimes the ones left unspoken.

In this supportive 90-minute writing workshop using the Amherst Writers & Artists method, participants will explore memories, family traditions, relationships, personal history, and the people who helped shape their lives. Through guided prompts and optional sharing, writers of all experience levels are invited to reflect on the moments, voices, and experiences that connect generations.

Because every family story is layered and ongoing, this workshop is designed as a meaningful beginning — a place to spark memories, remember stories, and begin writing that workshop participants may continue to explore long after the session ends.

No writing experience is necessary. Participants are encouraged to write freely in a confidential, respectful, and encouraging environment where every voice is welcomed.

Brenda Johnson is an Indianapolis storyteller, writing workshop facilitator and public speaker. Her work focuses on aging, family stories, and the power of personal storytelling. Through her Older, Bolder & Better! blog on Substack, storytelling performances, and Amherst Writers & Artists (AWA) workshops, she creates welcoming spaces where people of all backgrounds are encouraged to reflect, connect, and share their experiences. Brenda was selected as the 2025 Frank Basile Emerging Storyteller, sponsored by Storytelling Arts of Indiana. She also presents community-focused programs for older adults.

To get ready, here are some book lists about writing!

WitLITS Book Discussion Group

10:30am - 11:30am

Spades Park Branch

Share a small group experience while listening to a book read out loud in short segments by members of the group while following along in your own copy. With frequent stops to discuss often overlooked meaning in the text. Join Us!

Get Smartphone Savvy

10:30am - 12:30pm

Michigan Road Branch

Learn practical tips and strategies to use your Apple or Android smartphone with confidence, whether you’re new to smartphones or looking to get more comfortable. Discover how to navigate your device, stay connected, and make everyday tasks easier.

The topics we cover in the presentation:

This program is made possible by the Indianapolis Public Library Foundation.

Play & Learn with Gymboree

11:00am - 11:30am

Beech Grove Branch

Participating in a diverse class of physical, social, and cognitive developmental skills creates a dynamic class where younger children benefit from watching older children and older children benefit from being leaders. This program is a great opportunity for siblings to experience class together, or for children and adults can grow together!

This program is made possible by Everwise Foundation through gifts to The Indianapolis Public Library Foundation.

Art Adventures

1:30pm - 2:15pm

Central Library

Made possible by Everwise Foundation through gifts to The Indianapolis Public Library Foundation.

Catch your Breath: Grounding Practices

2:00pm - 3:30pm

Nora Branch

Brittany Wayman of Soul Care Coaching is here to guide you through a technique to take better care of yourself.

Catch your Breath: Grounding Practices

In the midst of constant demands and full schedules, it’s easy to keep pushing without ever pausing. This session is designed to give you space to slow down and exhale. Together, we will reflect, practice simple grounding exercises, and experience moments of rest and peace that help quiet the noise. You’ll walk away refreshed and equipped with practical ways to reset whenever life feels overwhelming.

Support yourself with some books and resources from a Bibliocommons List by Library Staff:

This workshop is made possible by Friends of the Library through gifts to The Indianapolis Public Library Foundation.

Discover Artificial Intelligence

2:00pm - 4:00pm

Southport Branch

This class offers a balanced perspective on the use of artificial intelligence and introduces you to the important ethical and practical considerations of this developing technology. We will define key terms, give a brief timeline of the development of the technology, and create an interactive project together using freely available tools.

This program is made possible by The Indianapolis Public Library Foundation.

Waterway Exploration

4:00pm - 5:00pm

Beech Grove Branch

Explore the world of waterways by tackling hands-on challenges that uncover the power and complexity of rivers. Build bridges and dams, design a boat, and test your creativity and problem-solving skills. This program is designed for kids ages 6-12.