Lillian Barkes, co-founder of Listen to Our Future, gives a tour of the resource library in the nonprofit's new learning center on Washington Street, Sept. 10, 2025, ahead of its grand opening. Credit: Eliezer Hernandez for Mirror Indy

A new resource library on the near east side will provide books and school supplies to students.

The library is an initiative provided by the nonprofit Listen to Our Future, which celebrated the opening of its new learning center on East Washington Street in September.

The resource library, located in the learning center, will serve students participating in Listen to Our Future programs as well as others referred to the nonprofit by schools and community groups.

The nonprofit plans to organize “shopping days” this summer where students will be invited to select items from the library. Listen to Our Future is taking student referrals from teachers and community partners for this opportunity.

The library will stock essential school supplies, such as backpacks, notebooks and books. The resource will be available throughout the school year — not just during the back-to-school season.

Help stock the Listen to Our Future library

Listen to Our Future is seeking supply donations, including backpacks, notebooks, folders, pens, pencils, erasers, crayons, markers, colored pencils, glue sticks, scissors, hand sanitizer, wipes, laundry detergent, socks, toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Donations can be dropped off at five locations including:

You can also visit Listen to Our Future’s website to make a monetary donation or shop the organization’s Amazon Wishlist.

To ask about Listen to Our Future’s referral process, reach out to info@listentoourfuture.com.

Mirror Indy, a nonprofit newsroom, is funded through grants and donations from individuals, foundations and organizations.

Mirror Indy reporter Carley Lanich covers early childhood and K-12 education. Contact her at carley.lanich@mirrorindy.org or follow her on X @carleylanich.

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