81 Branches. One Club. Unlimited Resources.
For the first time ever, Chicago Public School students have direct and instant access to the resources of Chicago Public Library.
The 81 Club puts the power of the 81 Chicago Public Library branches into the hands of students directly. It’s our mission to encourage and celebrate the creative and ambitious thinking of young Chicagoans by championing their curiosity.
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CPS Student? You’re already a member.
Here’s how to gain access:
- In person at any of the 81 Chicago Public Library locations. Just ask a librarian.
- In your classroom at school. Talk to your teacher!
- Through the Sora app. Find it on your school’s hub.
Ready to Get Started?
Illinois State Book Award Nominees
Lincoln Award Nominees 2023-2024
The Illinois Readers' Choice Award selected by teens ages 14-18.
Monarch Book Award Nominees 2023 -2024
The Illinois Readers' Choice Award selected by kids ages 5-8. For more information, visit aisled.org/monarch
Bluestem State Book Award Nominees 2023-2024
The Illinois Readers' Choice Award selected by kids ages 8-11. For more information visit aisled.org/bluestem
Rebecca Caudill Award Nominees 2023-2024
The Illinois Readers' Choice Award selected by kids ages 9-14. For more information, visit rebeccacaudill.org
Lincoln Award Nominees 2023-2024
The Illinois Readers' Choice Award selected by teens ages 14-18.
Monarch Book Award Nominees 2023 -2024
The Illinois Readers' Choice Award selected by kids ages 5-8. For more information, visit aisled.org/monarch
Bluestem State Book Award Nominees 2023-2024
The Illinois Readers' Choice Award selected by kids ages 8-11. For more information visit aisled.org/bluestem
Rebecca Caudill Award Nominees 2023-2024
The Illinois Readers' Choice Award selected by kids ages 9-14. For more information, visit rebeccacaudill.org
2025 Youth Media Award Winners for Teens
Enjoy the best books published for teens in 2024 as chosen by the American Library Association.
Black History Month 2025: Books for Teens
Celebrate Black History Month 2025 with these books for teens that highlight this year's theme: The Shoulders We Stand On.
What Would the New Captain America Read?
Check out some books we think Sam Wilson would love.
CPL’s Most Popular Books of 2024
What books did Chicagoans read most in 2024? Take a look back at the most popular titles for adults, teens and kids.
2025 Youth Media Award Winners for Teens
Enjoy the best books published for teens in 2024 as chosen by the American Library Association.
Black History Month 2025: Books for Teens
Celebrate Black History Month 2025 with these books for teens that highlight this year's theme: The Shoulders We Stand On.
What Would the New Captain America Read?
Check out some books we think Sam Wilson would love.
CPL’s Most Popular Books of 2024
What books did Chicagoans read most in 2024? Take a look back at the most popular titles for adults, teens and kids.
Kids Staff Picks (February 2025)
Kids and parents, check out our latest picks for good reading.
Ramadan Reads for Kids
20 board and picture books to help you celebrate Ramadan.
New in Kids Books: February 2025
Like to stay on trend? Here are the kids books we are most excited to read this month.
Black History Month 2025: Books for Kids
Celebrate Black History Month 2025 with these books for kids that highlight this year's theme: The Shoulders We Stand On.
Kids Staff Picks (February 2025)
Kids and parents, check out our latest picks for good reading.
Ramadan Reads for Kids
20 board and picture books to help you celebrate Ramadan.
New in Kids Books: February 2025
Like to stay on trend? Here are the kids books we are most excited to read this month.
Black History Month 2025: Books for Kids
Celebrate Black History Month 2025 with these books for kids that highlight this year's theme: The Shoulders We Stand On.
Database Highlights
Using CPL Databases for Research
Check out Dan's tutorial on Research Topics and Sources.
Focus on: Homework Help
Check out Jaime's guide to using Brainfuse.
Online Databases for Kids
Online Resources for Kids
Authoritative sources of information that are relevant, accurate and available 24/7.
Online Resources for Teens
Research events and concepts, find an online tutor, learn a new language and more with CPL's online resources for teens.