In this post, we’ve selected and featured 10 of the best public libraries in Chicago. Continue reading to learn about these, which represent 10 locations out of the 81 in total that make up the Chicago Public Library system.
1. Mount Greenwood
Dedicated in 1991, the Mount Greenwood Library features artwork on show for the public-funded through the City of Chicago Public Art Program. This stunning library houses oil paintings, watercolors, and steel sculptures.
There are plenty of events to enjoy here too. They include Teen Craft Night and Adult Book Discussion, and there are many more for the whole family to enjoy. As well as this, you can get a library card, use the libraries scanner, and take advantage of their study rooms and meeting rooms available to reserve.
Come and see what’s on offer or call the friendly librarians today.
2. Oriole Park
The Oriole Park library was opened in June 2004. Environmental sustainability is one of the construction features of this attractive building. There is ample parking here, and locals and visitors come to the library to enjoy the excellent facilities.
You can ride your bike here and lock it up on the provided bike racks on a nice day. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free computer use, and scanning facilities when inside. They have a large range of books to borrow or read in their catalog and a variety of large print books also.
The Oriole Park library is well worth checking out. Contact them to find out more.
3. Roden
This Library is named after Carl B. Roden. A lifelong resident of Norwood Park, he served as chief librarian at the Chicago Public Library from 1918 to 1950. The Roden Library was opened on September 16, 1968.
The Roden branch offers programs such as homework help that helps to build your child’s study skills. Also, it has excellent disability access and facilities. Drop-in and grab a book from their extensive catalog, or jump on one of the library’s free computers and browse the internet.
This library has a bit of everything. Call or email them today to find out what else is on offer.
4. Scottsdale
The Scottsdale Library opened on December 1, 1966, and serves five neighborhoods. It has been a favorite destination for community members and visitors for over six decades!
The library not only has an extensive range of books to borrow, but you can also borrow CDs or DVDs. There are also plenty of events to enjoy that are designed to entertain library-goers of all ages. Plus, they have free WI-Fi and internet-ready computers available for use.
The Scottsdale library might be precisely what you’re looking for. Contact the helpful librarians for more information.
5. Austin-Irving
Opened in December 2001, the Austin-Irving Library features some fantastic murals and paintings on public display that were funded by the City of Chicago Public Art Program.
This library is a great place to go. You can get a library card and borrow books, CDs, or DVDs today, and the library is open seven days a week! They have scanning facilities and computers for public use, and you’ll never miss out on a parking space due to their on-site parking lot. There are a few interesting things to check out here that might pique your interest.
For more information, email or call the friendly librarians.
6. Chicago Bee
This art-deco-style library was opened in 1996. The building was built somewhere between 1929 and 1932, and it was initially used to publish The Chicago Bee newspaper. The library features original paintings, sculptures, and photographs.
If you need to reserve a study room or meeting room, you’ll find many options. You can also use the free homework help facilities to help your child with their study habits. Plus, there are ample parking spaces with good accessibility and a bike rack for public use.
Contact the Chicago Bee library to find out what else is on offer.
7. Daley, Richard M. – W Humbolt
Serving four neighborhoods, this library was named after Richard M. Daley, a champion for the growth of libraries in Chicago. The branch was opened in 2011 and features environmentally sustainable construction.
There are many events to enjoy at this library, and you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. They have an extensive book catalog for you to browse through and internet-ready computers that are available to reserve.
There’s a lot to do at this library. To find out what’s on offer, call them today.
8. McKinley Park
The McKinley Park library is named after President William McKinley Park, the first park developed on the southside. The library was dedicated in June 1994 and features a stunning mural and sculpture.
There’s a wide range of activities to enjoy at this library. They have Chinese and Spanish language materials and a Citizenship Corner that offers free citizenship advice. There’s also homework help available and a wide range of books, CDs, and DVDs available to borrow on your library card.
Don’t miss out on the unique facilities at this library. Contact them today for more information.
9. West Belmont
Opening on October 30, 1971, this branch serves three neighborhoods. If you’re driving to this library, you won’t have to worry about getting a car space because they have their own parking lot. If you prefer to ride your bike, there’s a bike rack provided here for you.
There are some great events to enjoy here, including film screenings and Adult Book Discussion. It’s worth getting your library card and borrowing a book from their extensive catalog too, and If you need to reserve a meeting room, they’ve got you covered here also.
There’s something for everyone at the West Belmont library. Check it out for yourself or give the librarians a call.
10. Altgeld
Altgeld library is located in the Altgeld gardens and is worth visiting to see its stunning architectural design. It is named after former Illinois Governor John Peter Altgeld, who was Governor from 1893 to 1897.
The library features a City Bill Payment Kiosk where you can pay any City of Chicago bills. There are meeting rooms and private study rooms available to reserve here, and you can take advantage of their free Wi-Fi and use a computer to browse the internet. There are also plenty of books, CDs and DVDs available to borrow.
You’ll have a great experience when you visit this library. To find out more, contact them today.