Chicago Public Library

Chicago Public Library serves the residents of Chicago with 81 neighborhood branch locations and the Harold Washington Library Center downtown, offering free library services, educational programming, and community events for all ages. The library system provides extensive programming specifically designed for babies (0-18 months), toddlers (18-36 months), preschoolers (3-5 years), kids (6-13 years), tweens (10-13 years), teens (13-19 years), adults, and seniors.

Children’s programming includes hundreds of weekly story time sessions at branches throughout the city, featuring songs, rhymes, books, and interactive activities in English, Spanish, and other languages. Family story times welcome caregivers with children 0-5 years old for literacy activities and socialization. Special programs include Mother Goose on the Loose, Baby Story Time emphasizing adult-child interaction, parachute play sessions, and themed celebrations throughout the year.

Craft programs, games, and open play opportunities provide hands-on learning experiences. School’s-out programming offers activities during CPS non-attendance days. The library hosts author events, performances, health and science programs, and cultural celebrations. Many programs are free with no registration required, while others require advance registration to ensure adequate space and materials.

Programs operate at various times including weekday mornings, afternoons, evenings, and weekends to accommodate different family schedules. The library card is free for all Chicago residents and provides access to books, eBooks, audiobooks, movies, music, online resources, computer use, and program participation. Special accessibility services are available including sign language interpretation upon request, materials in multiple languages, and inclusive programming design. The system maintains strong commitment to serving diverse communities throughout Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods.