Since the first copyright for it in 1861, people have found that the small, thin postcard is a quick and inexpensive way to keep in touch withothers. Deltiology, the study and collection of postcards, is one of the most popular hobbies today. The cards offer unique views of life as it once was and give us a glimpse of society and culture past. 

The Indianapolis Public Library is fortunate to have a collection of over 500 postcards depicting scenes from the city and elsewhere. Without these cards, landmarks such as Wonderland on the eastside, the downtown Traction Terminal, or the Emrichsville Bridge over White River, all now lost, might be forgotten. Some cards feature poetry by James Whitcomb Riley, and others have pastoral scenes or jokes. While some of our cards have been purchased for the collection, the majority of them have been donated through the years. We are happy to share our collection with you.