Support

“Since 2011 the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library has been keeping the flame of the famed author, war veteran, pacifist, free-speech advocate, critic, counter-culture icon and Indianapolis’ favorite son…If you’ve never read any Kurt Vonnegut at all, this small library and museum is determined to show you why you should.” –Atlas Obscura

“The library/museum is housed in a downtown building called the Emelie, built in 1902 and listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. The staff are not only curators of Vonnegut’s work, but advocates of his ideals. In addition to their collection of his drawings, books, papers and letters (some of which are original publisher rejection letters), there is a recreation of the writer’s personal work space, a reading room, and a small art gallery. They see themselves as a unique cultural and educational resource, reaching into the hearts of readers, Hoosiers and beyond. Maybe that’s the best description of Vonnegut himself.” –Atlas Obscura

“Slaughterhouse Five and Man Without a Country were the two texts I have used; however, this workshop has opened my eyes to the brilliance of the other works.” –Teaching Vonnegut Attendee (survey)

“Having buy-in from the city at that level really solidified the importance of both Banned Books Week and the Vonnegut Library.” –Anonymous (survey)

“If you’re a Vonnegut fan, you MUST see this living, breathing tribute to him.  You’ll love it.  If you are not a Vonnegut fan or don’t even know who he is, take this opportunity to make yourself aware.  This is a nice space.  It’s very manageable, it’s comfortable, and it’s well done.  It’s free entry, but of course it’s nice to leave a donation/tip and help support the arts.  There’s a bookstore where you can purchase some cute Vonnegut souvenir items.” –Tracy A. (Yelp)

“Outside of its role as a museum, the KVML is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting literacy and battling censorship. Fans who are particularly dedicated will find this something of an emotional experience, and you could easily spend an hour and a half giving the place a thorough look.” -Andy Polhamus (Facebook)

“The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library gets a lot of monetary support from memberships, so consider checking out those options and giving back if you’re a Vonnegut aficionado. Otherwise, just a cool place to stop in! I’m inspired to learn more about Vonnegut’s life now.” –Katie U. (Yelp)

“I felt I was walking on hallowed ground. This is an excellent memorial to a great Hoosier and one of our finest American authors. Loved it. Highly recommend.” – David Cooley (Facebook)

”

“I enjoyed the variety of presentations and the clear expertise and knowledge of the presenters. I got lots of great ideas, not only things I was expecting (like text/practice ideas) but also things I didn’t expect at all (like wanting to create a literary garden even though I am not a gardener).” –Teaching Vonnegut Attendee (survey)

“I could kick myself for how many times I had walked right past this place without going in. Every Indiana dweller should come here. I’m very grateful to have visited while the curator of the library was there. He was enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and eager to share his Vonnegut wisdom with me, just as I was eager to hear it.
The place is smaller than I imagined, but clean and quaint, making my heart swoon a little. There are books for sale, and group emails or clubs available to sign up. I learned a lot, read an excellent book at the result of my visit, and thoroughly enjoyed my time with the staff, who made me feel like family.” –Kayla V. (Yelp)

“I am a member of the library because I love KV’s work but also because the library is heavily involved in Banned Books Week every year. I would say that they are the leader in the area when it comes to this, always very cool stuff, provocative stuff and it seems that a lot of people who work and volunteer there wear their geek heart on their sleeve. I feel KV is the closest thing Indiana got to a Mark Twain, witty and insightful.” –Thomas Childress (Facebook)

“Fantastic space. A pilgrimage for anyone who’s read Kurt’s work.” -Simon R. (Facebook)

“It’s not a very big place, but it does capture the Vonnegut vibe and is a good place to spend a little time if you are a fan of Vonnegut’s writing. The gift shop offers copies of his novels and a highlight for most people is getting to type at the little blue typewriter in the office replica and reading the framed rejection letter. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable which adds to the experience. There are often special exhibits and events scheduled at the museum as well. This is certainly another gem for the city of Indianapolis.” -Jill J. (Tripadvisor)

“We are anxious to have the opportunity for our students and professors to learn from an author with such an impressive body of work, who continues to be a prolific writer by drawing on history, culture, religion, politics, and contemporary ideas. And he has lived a courageous life that demonstrates that the pen is mightier than the sword.” –Gregory Hess, President of Wabash College

“The KVML is a must see for anyone who has been affected by the work of great American writer, Kurt Vonnegut. The store is stocked with the latest prints of all of his works, the walls are lined with some of his screen printing, and every member of the staff is a well versed expert on all of his works.” –Addie Lipson (Facebook)

“Everyone seemed to have a good time, and the overflow crowd added to the excitement of the event. I was very impressed with the quality of the presenters—an opinion that has not been diminished by reading the journal from cover to cover.  Well done!” –Greg Troxell