Lifelong Learning
Lifelong Learning at Your Local Library
#CPL4LIFE
This year, our annual report,, opens a new window opens a new window and introduces Carmen Piper Lane, a character who embodies the lifelong learning journey of a Chicago Public Library patron. Now, we want to hear your story.
Whether you’re diving into our curated booklists, participating in One Book, One Chicago, or attending Gamer's Universe, we want to know how engaging in lifelong learning has enriched your life.
Discover how Chicagoans are engaging in lifelong learning at the Library.
Maya R
I learned how to make my own pillow by taking a sewing class at the library. It was so fun to gain a new skill while meeting new people. I enjoyed browsing the collection while I was there and checking out some new books, as well.
Brenda M
The Chicago Public Library is more than a resource, it’s a life source. I’ve been taking my children to the library for years. They’ve done reading programs, literacy events, cultural and recently my children were able to check out books written by their mother, Brenda Perez Mendoza’s Racial Justice in America Latinx Series.
Roberto
I go to my local library to read books and magazines on technology, and novels. I also buy old books for sale. Lately, I have been reading about bicycles and also painting. I like to ride bicycles, and I paint in watercolor and acrylic. The library has many references for both of my passions.
Nicole C
We love CPL and especially our neighborhood branch, Garfield Ridge. The summer reading program is our favorite! We also enjoy using museum passes to explore our awesome city.
Ann L
My children enjoy using the puzzles and other toys at the library, and I appreciate the Teacher in the Library program, which helps them with their homework. The librarians have also showed us how to use Brainfuse, which is a great online resource. We always have fun at the events at the library, including storytimes and crafting programs.
Angela S
My children enjoy using the puzzles and other toys at the library, and I appreciate the Teacher in the Library program, which helps them with their homework. The librarians have also showed us how to use Brainfuse, which is a great online resource. We always have fun at the events at the library, including storytimes and crafting programs.
Tray J
I grew up near the Hall Library in the 1980s, and I found my love of reading there. I recently found myself going through some difficult times and discovered a book at this branch called Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen. This place helped me when I was 10 years old, and now it continues to help me at 47. So many memories!
April L
I love celebrating moments with my family at the library. We enjoy listening to mariachi music at our local Humboldt Park branch and making glow-in-the-dark slime at STEAM-Powered Saturday at Harold Washington Library Center. The library is the place where we not only bond over stories, but also connect with other people in our community. Our goal is to visit every branch!
Jeff P
I recently visited the Uptown Library. I was there to work on my resume, and I was experiencing some difficulty. One of the employees assisted me. He directed me to a career builder tool on the CPL website. It was amazing. He also followed-up, reviewed my resume and made sure I was satisfied. The library is a great place for job seekers to get resources.
Belinda
When I was a child in the 1960s, I basically lived at Kelly Branch library. The staff there remembered my name, family, and the books I enjoyed. Now, I am happy to share this same love of reading with my nephew when we visit the Greater Grand Crossing branch. The librarian, Ms. Hinton, is knowledgeable about books my nephew needs for his reading level. She shows me adult mystery books I love to read. Since the pandemic, my husband and I haven't been out much, but we will definitely be back. We have too many of our friends on the shelves.
Joseph B
The South Shore branch profoundly influenced me when it came to my love of books and reading, over sixty-five years ago. I went on to become very successful in business and life, and I still think of the fantastic librarian there, Ms. Sharon Hicks, who was always ready to help me find a good book or give me ideas for researching a given topic. I hope that the children of Chicago continue to get a good start in life by discovering the great value of books and learning.
Kasia M
My son learned how to crochet an owl at the Simple Stitches Crochet Club at the Austin-Irving branch. He loves it. The library staff do a wonderful job preparing materials for projects. We also borrow books from the library, and the staff is always welcoming and helpful. The whole place is very clean and organized. It's a great place to come with kids and teach them different ways to spend time and enjoy the books, as well. So, fun!
Patricia A
The Dunning branch has great programs for kids and adults, and it is right here in my community. The best part about this library is the staff. My son attends Dever Elementary School, and this year he had to do three group projects. His group and many others would meet at the library to work on their projects. The staff was exceptional in helping these students find appropriate sources. I saw one group of students painting items for their project. I was sure that they would be told that they couldn't complete their project there. I was pleasantly surprised when the staff brought out a tablecloth and let them finish. I'm glad that the staff is so kind to the youngest patrons of the library. I am so happy to have such a lovely library in my neighborhood.
Jerry Perez
I can't praise the Scottsdale branch enough for the exceptional services they provide. As a regular patron, I am continually impressed by the wealth of resources available at my fingertips. The extensive collection of books, magazines, and digital materials caters to a broad range of interests and ensures there's always something new to explore. The library staff deserves immense appreciation for their dedication and helpfulness. Whether I'm seeking assistance in locating a specific title or exploring new genres, they are consistently knowledgeable and approachable. Their commitment to fostering a welcoming environment truly enhances the overall library experience.
Jeanne S
I'm 78 years old now, and I learned so much from the wonderful librarians at Bezazian and the amazing book selections at that branch. The book that impacted me the most all those years ago was By Secret Railway, a book about the Underground Railroad that let me know that there were injustices in the world that needed to be rectified. I love the library.
Joanna M
We love this scavenger hunt, and we participate every month with our children. Having access to books has been a gift for our entire family of five. We also love participating in various events like the Day of the Dead.
Thiara G
My sister and I love to attend free events at the library, including the live animal shows, where we got to hold baby chicks. Also, in 2022, I got the chance to ask U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor a question at a virtual CPL program promoting her children's book, Just Help: How to Build a Better World. It was really exciting to be able to meet her and talk to her.
Claudia G
The library is a resource that some in Mexico do not have. My mother instilled the love of learning at an early age when she would bring my siblings and I to the library. Now, as a first-time mommy myself, our favorite place to go is the library. From the story times, to the fun events, and the many friends we make along the way-we can't say enough about Chicago Public Library. Our most memorable event was the 'Dia de los Niños" celebration. My [friend] is African-Mexican, so being able to blend our cultures in a meaningful way makes my heart so full, and that is exactly what this event and the Chicago Public Library mean to us as lifelong learners. Thank you for taking the time to read, have a beautiful day❣️
Ooni J
I always find great books to read at the Lozano branch, and the librarians are always helpful. I like to check out the New Books and Special Recommendations shelves because the librarians curate the best lists and collections of books! They also have book discussions. I went to one recently on Beautiful Country by Qian Julie Wang (an EXCELLENT book), it was led by Ms. Daylily and was such a wonderful experience. I’m so glad Pilsen has this library; it uplifts the community!
Sitaara
The staff at the Gage Park branch helped me submit my final project for my C++ Intermediate Computer Programming course so that I could obtain my certification and advance my career. Then, I found out that the library has books about coding and classes at the Maker Lab downtown.
Jiajun Chen
I was surprised and happy to find books in Chinese at the McKinley Park Branch. I enjoy reading books in different languages.
Linda H
The Maker Lab opened up a world of creativity and hands-on learning, making me feel like a true maker. If you haven’t been, it’s worth the visit!
Marik
Being in the library is like an adventure. Always something new to find! I love to randomly pick out a book and jump into an adventure.
Michelle P
For me, I loved taking my boys to story time. I still remember how excited they would get when they knew it was story time day! I know this fostered a love of literature for them.
Dina
Chicago Public Library was a lifesaver when raising my kids, with free museum passes, summer reading programs, and a safe place to do homework and check out books. Great place to tap into books for my reading club. Thank you!!
Jonathan J
I love video games, and I recently saw a post about the book "The Greatest Stories Ever Played" by Dustin Hansen. Now, I can't stop thinking about it. Hansen's take on how video game narratives like Uncharted and Persona 5 connect us through story and community has me seeing my favorite games in a whole new light. Who knew a book about video games could be so good.
Sandra K
Every Thursday morning, my little one and I make our way to the Thurgood Marshall Branch of the Chicago Public Library for Family Story Time. It's become a highlight of our week. The moment we walk into the cozy reading area, my toddler's face lights up—it's almost magical to see.
Joy G
The staff at the Clearing branch was very helpful in aiding me on my quest to read every Game of Thrones book. They also provided me with information on how to use the Libby app, which gave me access to ebooks and audiobooks.
Anne
I've loved libraries ever since I was little when my mom would take me to different libraries in different towns. That was what we did for fun! Then, as a preteen, I volunteered for CPL. Now, I'm a librarian myself! I still have my "Wrapped Up in Reading" shirt from the summer I volunteered.
Maria
I didn’t grow up with a lot of books at home, but the Humboldt Park library made sure I had endless stories to read. I still visit every month, and now I bring my mom for the book discussions. It’s become a part of our routine, and I cherish those moments together!
Patricia A
The Dunning branch has great programs for kids and adults, and it is right here in my community. The best part about this library is the staff. My son attends Dever Elementary School, and this year he had to do three group projects. His group and many others would meet at the library to work on their projects. The staff was exceptional in helping these students find appropriate sources. I saw one group of students painting items for their project. I was sure that they would be told that they couldn't complete their project there. I was pleasantly surprised when the staff brought out a tablecloth and let them finish. I'm glad that the staff is so kind to the youngest patrons of the library. I am so happy to have such a lovely library in my neighborhood.
Zee Reno
After deciding I needed to pick up a new hobby, I attended the bi-weekly crochet group at the Austin Irving Library in January of 2024. I had never crocheted before and had no idea where to even begin. Going into my first class, I knew nothing, but I left with a ball of yarn, and a crochet hook (and some hopes and dreams), both supplied to me by the teachers of the class. I have been back to every meeting since. The Instructors, Lee, Blanca, and Lori, are incredible! They welcome everyone into the group with kindness and no judgment on your skillset or abilities. The projects that are prepared for attendees are very thorough and come included with everything needed to complete it. While being led through the class by the instructors, everyone is also encouraged to socialize and help out others who are present. The community of people who regularly attend are incredibly positive and welcoming! In the past few months, I have learned more than I ever thought I could. This group has made such a positive effect on my life, and I highly recommend it to anyone in the area looking to learn a new skill while fostering community! As someone who lives in the neighborhood, I greatly appreciate all of the services that the Austin-Irving Park Library provides. I both enjoy coming here on my own to either read or crochet, but most importantly, I love bringing my 1-year-old daughter with me. They have an amazing selection of children’s books. I especially love that there are not just books in English, but also Spanish and Polish too. Every time I visit the library, the children’s area, and also the rest of the building in general, is incredibly clean and organized. I can confidently let my daughter explore in the children’s area with no concerns. Whenever I enter I get a “hello” and when I leave I get a “goodbye," or a "have a nice day." Even though the interactions are just small gestures, they really do make me feel welcomed and like I can reach out to any of the workers if I need assistance with something. The staff are so warm and kind. Very knowledgeable too! The Austin-Irving Park Library is a staple to the Portage Park neighborhood, and I am so so grateful to be able to use the resources provided here!
Natalie
The library is a gift that keeps on giving. Growing up, going to the library was an adventure. My father would allow me to take out 7 books, and boy, did I make sure those books would be worth it. I took my time browsing through the alphabetized books, sometimes reading them right there on the spot. One of my favorite childhood books is “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak. Now I have children of my own, and I take full advantage of my local library. Over the years, I’ve taken them to numerous classes, from mom and tots to cooking classes. I have even enjoyed some adult classes. At home, we have a large bin to store our library books because when we visit, I allow them to take out as many books as they like. We absolutely love our library and are grateful for their services.
DaUhn
My family had very limited resources, but at the library I had access to unlimited resources, knowledge, and adventure. I eagerly read everything I could and spent so much of my childhood at Blackstone Branch library. Summers were especially fun, because of the summer reading programs. I read about 100 books each summer and would get prizes at the end of the programs. I still remember the librarians from my childhood, who were so kind and helpful. The library was truly one of the best parts of my childhood and has shaped me into the avid adult reader I am today - even now, I have sixteen books checked out!
ReAnn S
I have had a library card since I was 6 years old. It was my proudest possession - and still is. While young, I loved burying my nose in a great big book, its words letting me travel to far-off lands, see wild and wonderful things, and meet the most interesting characters. Once grown, travel became a major part of my working life. When the convenience of Kindles and e-books became available, even though I still prefer a hardback book, I have been able to travel to 38 countries, and through the magic of the internet, my Chicago library card, and my Kindle, I have always had a wonderful selection of books to read on a long flight, while dining alone, or before turning off the lights after a long day. A big thanks to the CPL for maintaining a large resource of available digital books, music, and movies!
Megan l
I am proud to have been a patron of the Chicago Public Library for most of my life. As a child, I was an avid reader and would spend time with my mom and aunt at the Library. I adored the Summer Reading Program, and filling up my folder would be my biggest accomplishment each summer. As a teen, CPL provided a refuge for me and many others. People forget how hard it can be to be a teenager, and having the library to study, read, or get some time to myself meant the world. I moved away to New York City for college and remained there for 9 years. I returned to Chicago 3 years ago, and it was the best thing that could have happened to my family and me. One of my first stops after updating my address was getting my library card. Once I had it, I finally felt like I was home and a citizen of Chicago again. Thank you for being a haven for me in every season of my life.
Jerome
As a teen, the West Garfield Park branch was my creative escape. I spent hours in the makerspace, experimenting with digital media. Today, I bring my younger cousins to the same branch to explore their own creativity.
Keilah
I got my first job through a workshop at the Woodson Regional Library. They helped me with my resume, gave me tips on interviews, and provided a quiet place to study.
Claudia
It was a really good experience just because I learned a lot when I don't speak any words in English and appreciate every program they bring to help people like me and every single book. They have the right answers and the environment is perfect 👌
Raiza R
I have so many memories at the library that I hold dear to my heart. The library has been a safe, positive, secure space to complete important paperwork, homework and find resources. [For] so many years, it became the place to nurture my kid's minds with great books. So many hot summers and cold winters sitting at the library, being surrounded by so many monthly programs available at the library, read a louds, arts and crafts, help to use a computer. While our neighbors were looking forward to the parks, beach, and movie theaters, my kids and I were looking forward to reading the next book at the library, picking up our hold request, printing out our needed paperwork, or just having a safe and quiet place to calm down our anxiety or daily struggles with our lives. The library became the family member you look forward to seeing on the weekends or my days off. I couldn't tell you how many problems I could handle because of the reliable internet, a working computer, a printer, and great librarians who helped me when I needed it. I was able to complete my degrees because of the books that I was able to check out. My children went through elementary, high school, and college with the most powerful tool I could have given them: a "Library card". Now, as we continue our journey, one place that we carry dear in our hearts and that we still visit is the library. Thank you!
Viki
I love going to the library and checking out various fiction and nonfiction titles. I’ve attended some community events geared toward adults. I always read the book recommendations, and the titles lists compiled on the CPL blog by librarians, based around a common theme or topic, and often use these as a starting point when choosing my next read. I also like the ability to watch old movies or movies that are not necessarily available on any streaming services. However, I’ve been most excited about going to the library with my child: from baby story time and discovery, through a great variety of online programs during the pandemic, up until now that he is in elementary school. We’ve participated in every summer reading challenge, we love going to family events at our local branch, (and sometimes other nearby branches), or simply checking out books - and as my child is becoming a more and more independent reader, which in part is thanks to taking advantage of the library resources, there’s again time for checking out adult titles as well as children and youth books.
Ella
I was homeschooled, and I remember we did a unit on Ben Franklin because we read this story about a mouse or rat who lived with him. I remember, from that unit, the quote about fish and guests, and I remember deciding that I was always going to be intentional about learning. As a kid, I made two promises to myself: (1) I'd be a lifelong learner, and (2) that I wouldn't look back on my younger self with scorn. This past year, I have been intentionally learning how to teach myself-- to learn how to learn (without a teacher). It has been so important to me to be able to check out books for this goal. Some of the books I want to read for my latest educational topic are quite expensive, and even if they're not expensive, there's just simply a lot of them. I've been able to check out "The Language of the Night: Essays on Fantasy and Science Fiction" by Ursula K. Le Guin and "The Gilda Stories" by Jewelle Gomez. My favorite, recently has been "The Female Man" by Joanna Russ. The connections I am able to make between these authors and ideas are only possible through quantity-- reading a lot. Jewelle Gomez references Joanna Russ in the addendum to "The Gilda Stories." Russ references Gomez in "How to Suppress Women's Writing." Russ mentions Samuel R. Delany, so I read "Stars in My Pocket Like Grains of Sand," which has an incredible afterword. It's making these connections that allow me to actually learn. I had a teacher in high school say that that's what's important--making connections between different classes and ideas. Even though I'm choosing these books and reading them by myself, I'm not really teaching myself because I'm learning with these authors. I'm learning how to learn without direct instruction. This year has been incredibly enriching. I care so much about this specific type of science fiction. Reading it, learning about why people are writing it, and gaining an understanding of the scope of it historically has been such a gift.
Linda
My parents introduced me to the library as a young child. I have vivid, wonderful memories of visiting the original Northtown Branch on California Avenue. I would fill up my bag with my favorite books and record albums, too! At school, I learned how to use a card catalogue so that I could find materials easier. I have been able to foster the love of reading in my own children. We are so fortunate to have the library! The library is a treasure trove of resources!
Madison
The library is just a genuinely safe place to exist without any expectation besides just hanging out and reading. I love it as a place for my younger brother to play with other children and engage with literacy in a less intimidating environment. Also, he especially appreciates the different gaming and maker spaces!
Darkis S
We love going to the library (my children & myself). They have everything we need, from sports, nature, biographies & technology. We also enjoyed coming to the different extra activities like movie day, outdoor activities in the summer & even rent movies to watch at home. We know the staff & they know us too! They are like family members!
Mira K
When I was a kid, I did the summer reading program every year with my mom. I knew [I would] bring my 3 year old to do the same. I loved it as a child and now I love it as a mother. A library is my favorite place on Earth.
Greg T
During a period of my life when I was an aspiring actor, I would go to the theatre/plays section to find monologues. I loved reading modern playwrights like Annie Baker and Bruce Norris. Often, I would spend an hour or two after work reading through the plays, finding a powerful monologue, and then practicing it later at my apartment. Over the years, CPL has been a second home. A place for inspiration, and new ideas. I'm grateful for its role in expanding my self of self and education.
Michael B
I was recently taking a training course for the Chicago Board of Elections and ran out of time. I explained to the library staff what I was doing, and he provided me with the additional time I needed to complete my assessment portion of the test. He told me he realized how valuable the election services are. I am grateful for staff members who are willing to go the "extra mile" to help someone out when they need it. The library has been a vital resource to me.
Sharon M
I have enjoyed attending the book club at the Roden branch for over five years. It has been both a source of pleasure and entertainment. The reference librarian in charge is excellent. She leads enlightening book discussions and promotes a sense of camaraderie within the group.
Jayden P
I recently stopped by the Near North branch to print out some paperwork, but I left having learned how to play a new game. While I was scanning my papers, I noticed there was a tabletop games event going on and decided to join toward the end of the event. The person leading with [the game] was inclusive about my pronouns, about me joining the event late, and about me being very new at playing Rummikub. I enjoyed the chance to learn something new.
Ellie S
Chicago Public Library is the place I go almost every day. Not only to find the book I love to read in my free time but to take kids to story time, to the playroom for coloring, and to read books about shapes or let the kids just enjoy the toys in the play area.
Emilia
The library, for me, has been and will always be a safe place. Someone is always there to help you. I've felt at such peace when going into a library, as a kid, and now as an adult in my 40's, it's the same feeling. I've taken my kids, and they have the same love for it as I do. Getting their first library card to checking out their first book. It was a whole family event. It has taught me that books can really bring people together. Whether it's for school projects or family reading, I hope someday, when my children have their own kiddos, they'll take them and show them the love of books.
Paxton F
Growing up in Chicago, I have memories of going to the public library with my mom from a very young age. I remember being little and wandering down the aisle, looking for something that would catch my attention. The public library brought me many adventures and sparked creativity that I still credit to this day. Giving children and people of all ages the ability to learn at their own will is something that is incredibly valuable for the next generation of Chicagoans. The Chicago Public Library provides the platform and foundation for our city's next great leaders.
Blanche
I suppose reading stacks of “Babysitters” books may have led to my favorite career as an early childhood caregiver. Then visiting my library once a week for preschool reading time and more stacks of picture books to inspire my toddlers. My own children rode many a free rides at Great American due to their stacks of books. Now that I’m retired, I’ve taken some leisure in learning to crochet at my library and participating in the adult book club. My stack runneth over!
Avid Reader
I was read to as a child and continued the practice on my own in school and into adulthood. My now grown children and I spent many trips to the library, borrowing picture books so they could also be read to. They still have a fondness for those stories, even now. They choose to read for fun as the adults they have become.
Andy M
We use the library every week to check out books for everyone in the family. Lately, our bags have been full of bird identification books - supporting an interest in birding that is just taking flight!
Darnielle M
Every Friday afternoon, we pop a batch of popcorn, grab our canvas bags, and hop in the car to discover a new batch of books at the library. It’s truly a family affair as I grab my books from the hold shelf, my son independently fills his library bag, and we finish playing blocks and puzzles with baby sister and her board books in the children’s section.
Jonathan K
One of my favorite library memories takes me back to the day I discovered Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. I still remember the thrill of finding that book on the shelf, nestled between other stories, just waiting for me to open it. From the very first page, I was transported to Hogwarts—a world filled with magic, friendships, and incredible adventures.
Susan
I use a walker to get around. I am unable to get out to lectures or attend some theater performance. I am able to get to my library and have been able to see movies and theater performances I cannot attend. I have learned so many new things due to the wonderful selection of literature available. My library is friendly and a comfortable place to continue my learning and at 85, it opens a whole new world for me.
Lynette
Growing up, weekly visits to the library were a staple. I couldn't wait to go to the library and find new books to read. The ambiance and just being able to have access to all those books meant everything. I shared that excitement with my own kids as they grew up. I share new ways to visit the library with my students. Hoopla provides many options that I never had growing up, and sharing that with my students now and finding more stories to share with them keeps library reading exciting!!
Damon
The monthly special presentations and guest speakers at the Harold Washington branch are always something I pay attention to. Its close proximity to so many modes of public transportation is vital to me because I do not have a car for transportation. I only wish greater resources would be devoted to these events (specifically at this location) to make them an even more common destination for me than they have been. Just as the Chicago Cultural Center is a big draw for tourists and locals alike, I think that Harold Washington could match the same level of appeal if it was given the resources to support this effort. Thank You!
H. Patricia Blackshire
One of my favorite library memories takes me back to the day I discovered Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. I still remember the thrill of finding that book on the shelf, nestled between other stories, just waiting for me to open it. From the very first page, I was transported to Hogwarts—a world filled with magic, friendships, and incredible adventures.
Gloria
One of my most favorite childhood memories is my mom taking me to the Edgewater Library at 6 years old to get my first Library card. I was so excited because I loved to read and get lost in books by way of my imagination. Even when I became a teen, I still found the Library to be a sanctuary for me. Now, as an adult and homeschooling mom, I bring my babies to the library. Not only to take out books for our weekly studies, but for the many activities that are available to us. My kids favorite is Lego club, where they get to play and meet other children in their age range. I will always be grateful for having the experience and ability to go to any CPL.
2023 Annual Report
As we look back on an extraordinary year for Chicago Public Library, we’re filled with pride and gratitude. The year 2023 was truly one for the books as we celebrated 150 years of connecting, inspiring, and empowering millions of Chicagoans. We marked this milestone with a citywide birthday party, a commemorative library card, the launch of the Library for the People podcast and the unveiling of a stunning mural sponsored by Wintrust. These celebrations were a testament to our mission—to welcome and support all people in their enjoyment of reading and pursuit of lifelong learning—which has never felt truer.
With the release of our Annual Report, we are also thrilled to announce a new lifelong learning campaign, launched in tandem with this report. This campaign reflects our belief that learning is a lifelong journey and underscores our commitment to providing diverse, dynamic programming for patrons of all ages.
Inspired by Harold Washington’s vision and propelled by Mayor Brandon Johnson’s leadership, we remain dedicated to making Chicago a better, stronger, and safer city. As we turn the page to 2024, we invite you to explore this report. Let Carmen Piper Lane, our storyteller, guide you through our library’s rich legacy and bright future, showcasing who we are for learners at every age and stage of life.
