Here’s a silver lining of our current circumstances: reading is the perfect activity for social distancing. It can be done silently and alone from your house. It doesn’t require expensive materials. And perhaps most importantly, a good book immerses you in a different world with different problems. Here are some ways to obtain books by your favorite Indiana authors without leaving your reading nook.

FOR PUBLIC LIBRARY LOVERS

Though most public library systems have closed all locations until April, borrowers can still use their library cards to check out  audiobooks and e-books. Here’s a handy article from The Indianapolis Public Library about its online services. Visit your local library’s website for information about what services patrons can access online–your system may have started virtual storytimes or other digital programming.

FOR #SHOPLOCAL SUPPORTERS

We love the independent bookstores in our state and want to support them while many are closed to foot traffic. IndieBound and Libro.fm are websites that make it possible for you to buy books and audiobooks directly through your favorite local bookseller. Newly launched www.bookshop.org also makes sure that money goes back to independent bookstores with every purchase.

Additionally, many indie bookstores, such as Wild Geese Bookshop in Franklin, Kids Ink in Indianapolis, and Second Flight Books in Lafayette, are offering curbside pickup and other creative solutions to allow patrons to keep shopping. Visit their websites and follow them on social media for the latest updates.

FOR FOLKS WITH YOUNG READERS

Be sure to follow your local library on social media for online story times. We’ve been seeing librarians across the state reading children’s books aloud via Facebook live and other platforms. The Indianapolis Public Library has also compiled more than 100 read alouds for readers practicing social distancing with their families.

FOR THOSE WITH FULL BOOKSHELVES

What a good problem to have! But, don’t brag too much, we know that full bookshelves often mean a lot of great reads have fallen to the bottom of the TBR pile. Thankfully, Book Riot knows your shame and shared strategies to help you actually read the books you own. Want to spend some time cataloging your home library? The LibraryThing app has made its service free to use!

FOR THE ANXIETY-PRONE WHO NEED AN ASSIGNMENT

A small way to do good in the world right now is to read local books. Writers, like many other creatives, are struggling with the uncertainty resulting from speaking engagements and book tours being cancelled. Read our book review series to discover Indiana books, or tweet at @INAuthorsAwards for a recommendation tailored to your taste.