81 Branches. One Club. Unlimited Resources.

Chicago 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.

 

CPS Student? You’re already a member.

Here’s how to gain access:

  1. If you're a CPS student, your student ID is your library card number.
  2. If you're not a CPS student, in person at any of the 81 Chicago Public Library locations. Just ask a librarian.
  3. 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

Poetry Month for Teens 2026

Take a stanza and read these books of poetry and novels in verse.

Arab American Heritage for Teens

12 books celebrating Arab American heritage and culture.

Earth Day Reads for Teens

Celebrate Earth Day by getting inspired to make change through these YA books!

Teen Books for the Hustle and the Hangout

In anticipation of summer jobs, Cordiah shares her top picks for the upcoming season.

Kids Staff Picks (April 2026)

Kids and parents, check out our latest picks for good reading.

Jazz for Kids

Get excited about Jazz music with these titles that really swing!

New in Kids Books: April 2026

Like to stay on trend? Here are the kids books we are most excited to read this month.

Poetry Month for Kids 2026

Read and rhyme with these poetic picture books and biographies of poets.

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.
Back to Top