Chicago Public Library

Chicago Public Library, established in 1872, is one of the nation’s premier library systems. The Library serves Chicagoans from its 79 welcoming neighborhood locations, providing rich collections of books, state of the art technology and award-winning literary programs.

The Library receives unparalleled and consistent leadership and advocacy from Mayor Richard M. Daley and the Chicago City Council. Working in partnership with the Mayor, Chicago’s elected officials, and the Library’s dedicated Board of Directors, the men and women of the Chicago Public Library have built and opened 52 new libraries since 1989.

A strong and vibrant Chicago Public Library reflects how our city values its people. With generous support from the City of Chicago and the philanthropic community through the Chicago Public Library Foundation, the Library plays a pivotal role in supporting the education of our children and the reading enjoyment of adults; bridging the digital divide; and providing all Chicagoans with the resources to enable them to be successful and engaged residents of our City and the world.