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.

 

CPS Student? You’re already a member.

Here’s how to gain access:

  1. In person at any of the 81 Chicago Public Library locations. Just ask a librarian.
  2. In your classroom at school. Talk to your teacher!
  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

Top Picks: Geeking Out For Gamers

In anticipation of C2E2, Cordiah shares her picks for gamer related stories.

Must-Read Manga Before April’s Anime Drops!

Anime fans, get ready! April is shaping up to be an exciting month with big comebacks and new release —and we’re here to help you get ahead!

Exploring Climate Change Through Teen Literature

Teen Librarian Emily recommends books about climate change.

Women's History Month 2025: Books for Teens

Celebrate Women's History Month with these books for teens on this year's theme, Women Educating & Inspiring Generations.

Deaf History Month Reads for Kids

Celebrate Deaf History Month as we travel back in time with these books for kids!

Becoming a Citizen Scientist

Earth Day is on April 22! How do you plan to celebrate? One way some people choose to help the earth is through Citizen Science projects.

Great Reads for Kids Excited About C2E2

Find a fun read to discuss while the annual C2E2 celebration of comics, cosplay, gaming, authors, and anime is in Chicago.

Eid Mubarak: Books for Kids

18 books to help you celebrate Eid al-Fitr.

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.
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