Chicago Public Library is turning 150 and we have stories to tell. This six-episode limited series podcast takes us on a journey – from building a library after the Great Chicago Fire to reimagining what libraries could be. Along the way, we will meet different Library People: librarians, patrons, authors, and so much more. Each episode will bring a mix of voices and stories found in Chicago’s 80+ branches that make Chicago Public Library a city treasure and a leader in the space.
Read a transcript of episode 4.
Take a deeper dive into episode 4 of the Library for the People podcast, focusing on libraries designed with patrons' specific needs in mind.
The Chinatown Branch
Exterior of the Chinatown Branch.
Part of the children’s area at Chinatown Branch.Low shelves with cutouts curve around the children’s area, like the shape of a dragon’s tail.
View of the courtyard, meeting room and stairs at Chinatown.
The skylight and radiant panels that line the exposed ceiling.
The Chicago skyline viewed from the second floor of Chinatown Branch.
Mural by CJ HungermanOn the second floor of the Chinatown Branch.
The radiant panels in the ceiling.
The current Chinatown Branch, opened in 2015, is 16,000 square feet and features feng shui style interior, energy efficient glass and an exterior steel frame, with views of the city skyline. Read more about the history of the Chinatown Branch and visit in person to view the Stories We Tell exhibit, on display through the end of August.
Fun fact: the CPL 150 logo pays homage to the Chinatown Branch (it's in the "1"). Learn more about the CPL 150 logo.
Add a comment to: Library for the People Episode 4: How Do You Design a Public Library for the 21st Century?