Wintrust Mural Celebrates Chicago Public Library’s 150th Anniversary

The celebration of Chicago Public Library's 150th anniversary continues with a new mural on the Wintrust building. Created by artist Nick Goettling, the mural depicts the library's progress and impact since our opening in 1873.

“I wanted to find a way to show that the library is a portal to the entire world of knowledge and experiences,” said Goettling. “Going far beyond just books, the library provides us with so many tools, services, skills, training, and support, all for free. It demonstrates the best ideals of our society. Eventually, we developed this concept using color to organize the ideas, and illustrations of the common activities at the library (reading, researching, creating,) to serve as a gateway to all those experiences and knowledge. I wanted to visually show that one book or film can expand your entire world.”

The mural can be seen on the building along the Kennedy Expressway. Learn more about the mural and its inspiration.

About CPL 150

Chicago Public Library is 150 years young! Since first opening our doors in 1873, we've served all Chicagoans with free and open places to gather, learn, connect, read and be transformed. Join us in celebrating 150 years of serving our communities. Learn more by visiting chipublib.org/150.