Kurt Vonnegut was a World War II soldier and prisoner of war, peace activist, free speech champion, bestselling writer, artist, father, and lover of jazz, comedy, theater, and film. Celebrating our 15th anniversary in 2024, we at the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library (KVML) conduct tours of our museum’s diverse and accessible exhibitions. Members borrow books from our lending library. Students, teachers, veterans, and prisoners benefit from our programs that encourage storytelling to “make your soul grow.” From its German foundation in the 1800s, our gorgeous building is one of the few remaining buildings from the period when Indiana Avenue was known nationwide for its rich jazz history and Black excellence in business and culture. Our Bokonon Lounge is more than a bar but also a space that people use for weddings, birthday parties, and more.
Outside of Indianapolis, we are widely known for our tough stance on free speech. We send hundreds, if not thousands, of free books to students around the country to support anti-censorship. As Kurt said, we want to remain “vibrant and alive and relevant” to support our local, state, national, and international audiences.
The Costa Rica Writers Retreat offers a unique opportunity to unplug, unwind, and tap into your creative potential amidst the stunning landscapes of Costa Rica. Designed for writers of all levels, this seven-night retreat is an immersive experience that combines the wit and wisdom of Kurt Vonnegut with the serene beauty of Amatierra Resort.
Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just beginning to explore your creative voice, this retreat will provide you with the tools, inspiration, and community you need to advance your craft.
Help us bring Vonnegut to your state. Starting in 2022, KVML has been traveling the United States bringing programming, books, and Vonnegut’s message of free expression and common decency. Through this initiative, we hope to partner with schools and libraries as well as new and old Vonnegutians to further Kurt’s legacy. Visit our Events page to find out more about 2022 events in your state.
What should young people do with their lives today? Many things, obviously. But the most daring thing is to create stable communities in which the terrible disease of loneliness can be cured.
In 2022, acclaimed American author, Kurt Vonnegut, turns 100 years old. From the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library, The Vonnecast explores ways Vonnegut’s legacy has shaped the lives of others and continues to make souls grow.
Through Educational programs, the KVML is proud to inspire Kurt Vonnegut’s legacy of free expression and common decency in readers, writers, and thinkers of all ages across the globe.
Join us after work or school for evening discussions and webinars that connect themes in literature to current events and history. Visit the Events page to register for our 2022 events, including Stories of Banned Conflicts, and our annual Banned Books Week Celebration.
The Youth Writing Program connects volunteers across the country with students at Kurt Vonnegut’s alma mater: Shortridge High School. In the summer of 2022, the KVML will offer virtual Social Justice Writing Workshops monthly that will feature a guest writer or activist.
Every summer, the KVML partners with educators across the country to offer the Teaching Vonnegut series. This virtual conference offers an array of sessions focused on Vonnegut’s life, works, legacy, and the causes he promoted. Classroom teachers and after-school educators will leave sessions inspired to create new lesson plans. Participants who are not traditional educators will enjoy learning about Vonnegut, and broaden their world view. Teaching Vonnegut 2023 is scheduled and open for registration!
Writing In Peace, offers veterans a monthly opportunity to engage in a 4-hour writing workshop in the company of other military veterans. A collection of their work is presented annually at Vonnegut Fest, our celebration of Kurt’s Birthday, Veterans Day, and Armistice Day.
Kurt Vonnegut served in WWII and was captured during his first day of combat at the Battle of the Bulge. His experience as a combat veteran and POW shaped his world view and creative endeavors. The KVML is honored to provide a space for veterans to explore their creativity, and build community. We are currently planning the 2022 Veterans Writing Program. Please check back for more information.
Support Kurt’s Legacy
Kurt Vonnegut Museum And Library 2017-2023 - All Rights Reserved | The Kurt Vonnegut Museum And Library Is A 501(C)(3) Private Nonprofit Organization.
Support Kurt’s Legacy
Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library 2017-2023 - All Rights Reserved | The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library is a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit organization.
Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library Volunteer Application
Please contact [email protected] if you have any questions about this application’s content.
As we prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime experience under the moon’s shadow, consider making a gift to support getting banned books into the hands of students whose freedom to read is being suppressed.
We also hope you will join us for our free “A Big Eye in the Sky” community celebration on April 8th.
The Vonnegut Tourney is back! This time, places associated with or created by Vonnegut are going head to head. Click below to cast your votes on who shall be champion!
Sign up for any of our NEA Big Read programs and receive a free copy of Jess Walter’s The Cold Millions
We invite you to help pen the future and empower Vonnegut’s words by giving back in YOUR way – whether that’s a financial contribution or gifting your time.
It’s the season of giving, which is why we’re giving 25% off all KVML clothes, books, accessories, homeware, and select artwork November 24th – 27th.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just getting acquainted with his writings, VonnegutFest 2023 promises an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the world of Vonnegut as you engage with fellow fans!
Help KVML finish our year of education strong!
Support the completion of our education exhibit, expansion of our Youth Writing Program, and so much more.
Campaign ends on Sunday, October 8th
Preorder KVML’s First Ever Book The Tralfamadorian Dictionary.
We’ve worked with Vonnegut experts and top linguists to create the official handbook for the languages of notable alien species in the Vonnegut Universe.
Be sure to sign up for our special release party event with our Margo language expert on June 8th. This event is free. Tap shoes will not be provided, so please bring your own.
