Library offers Dillinger story for free

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - In less than two weeks, Public Enemies , the latest movie about Indiana's most infamous native, John Dillinger, has earned more than $80 million in worldwide box office.

With so many people willing to pay to see the story of Dillinger's life, the Indiana State Library is hoping some of those people will want to visit its Indianapolis building to learn more about Dillinger -- for free.

From his earliest days as a kid in Indianapolis to his death at a Chicago movie theater, the library exhibit -- designed by Herron School of Art students -- chronicles the life and times of Dillinger -- Indiana's most famous bank robber.

Liz Renner of Columbus did exactly what those at the state library hope others will do. She came to see the Dillinger exhibit after seeing the movie. She and her mom made a side trip to the state library after dropping someone off at the airport.

What makes the exhibit especially unique is that the documents on display aren't borrowed documents. They come from the state archives, collected back when Dillinger was alive.

"In particular, we have hand-written letters from the governor, from other public officials at that time, talking about what was going on at the time Dillinger and his gang tore through Indiana," said Drew Griffis of the state library.

The state library was actually built between 1932 and 1934 -- the years Dillinger was Indiana's and the nation's number one news story.

The exhibit is free and runs through December 31. It is open Monday through Friday from 8 until 4:30 p.m.

For more information visit the state library web site .