Chicago Public Library – Harold Washington Library Center

My daughter and I had actually taken the subway a few stops to check out the Willis Tower (a.k.a. Sears Tower) the afternoon we arrived in Chicago. However, it was closed due to windy conditions (which I found odd). We had walked from the east side of the loop across downtown to get there, and had seen an intriguing building a couple of blocks south. So, instead of heading directly back to the hotel we checked it out. It also provided a nice refuge from the light snow that had begun to fall.
This downtown library is about 9 floors, with interesting metal sculptures adorning the roof line. The interior /​lobby is also interesting, as they have a 2-​story well that had constellations inlaid on the floor (IIRC). Architecturally, it was quite neat.
We ascended several floors up via the escalators, with each floor seeming to have a slightly different character. There were art exhibits (a huge number of dog tags suspended from the ceiling, etc.), a 3-​D printing lab, architectural models of things like Cloud Gate, etc.
We eventually tried to check out the rooftop terrace but a cop told us (politely) that it was closed for a private event.
We found that there was an elevated subway platform across the street when we exited, also. Recommended.

The library itself is a beautiful building with a lot of really awesome sections and features. However, some of the staff are very rude. I went to the third floor to print something out, which I had never done before, and every time I asked a question, the lady at the desk would snap at me or roll her eyes. The people at the front desk were better, but I think I’ll find a library with a kinder staff from now on.

Very cool 9 story library. The best part is the glass ceiling and big bay windows. I like the artwork and quotes on the walls throughout. Gives it a nice touch. You can take the elevator or escalator. The security guards are very friendly and helpful. The «youmedia» room was really interesting never seen one like it.

I’m not from Chicago but I actually like the way the library looks. It caught my attention as I passed by. My reaction was, ‘what is in the world in that building?’ I looked at Google maps and I would have never guessed it was a library though.
A few days later, I went in for a visit. This building has at least 9 levels. The ninth floor has an exhibition dedicated to Chicago’s first black mayor, Harold Washington. It is also the location of the so-​called «winter garden.» Not the kind of garden I had in mind though. It was very quiet on this floor.
I remained on the 7^th floor. It can be kind of hard to find an outlet depending on where you are seated. There is security on every level and several homeless individuals. This library is the most guarded library I’ve walked into and perhaps the fanciest.

As a Chicago native, I hate to say it but there is some truth that others assert that the outside of this particular library branch is ugly.
With that said, the inside of the library is extremely gorgeous. Ex:
* Waterfall leading up to the second floor.
* The «garden» on the upper floor.
* The dog tags art installation on the ceiling look absolutely stunning. The best way I can describe it is «chandelier-​y» (I know that isn’t a real word).
There is an after schools type of safe haven for teenagers/​at risk children.
70+ computers available for public use. Free Wi-​fi. 5 floors full of books. Friendly librarians.
SHOCKER:
About a year or two ago they finally got rid of the security guards that make you open up your bags on the second floor!!! I’m all for security but I just thought that «feature» was unnecessary.
To sum up, Harold Washington may look kind of ugly on the inside, but it is a sight to behold when you step foot into one of Chicago’s hidden treasures.

Too many homeless people. Its pretty nasty. But otherwise its nice. But it kinda ruins the place

On the plus side, it’s a very big facility with some interesting architecture and everything you would want in a library in terms of facilities. On the minus side, it’s not very well organized. I’ve had difficulty getting accurate information from staff on something as simple as where to return a book. So if you’re looking to kill some time downtown, this is a great option. But if you are trying to get some work done, you might be setting yourself up for some frustration.

From years ago when the building was under construction I had a bad feeling. Despite being able to find numerous book, DVD etc. options I am put off intensely by the low lighting and the strongly uncomfortable layout and design. As a student I would search for much more cozy environs to concentrate on my school work albeit with good lighting. The interior strikes me as a mishap and almost intentional at that. When the design competition for the then new library was going on none of the designs were actually stirring but this was the worst thing to put at the south end of State Street. It screams morbid, old, uneventful real estate-​End

There are plenty of places to read and check out books from this CPL. Also there are about 10 computers to use so plenty to use if you don’t have a laptop for WiFi access. Check out the 9^th floor atrium. It’s very spacious and clean), which is rare for a CPL.

Magnificent!!! Am I looking to the gates of heaven??? I am in love with this library!!! Amazing, amazing, amazing!!! The are a lot of English grammar book, Chinese book, and a lot of others languages!

I am a fan of this library, but not so much the creepy vibe I always get by the 3^rd floor computer lab area in the south part of the building. It’s always noisy by there, and something about that area always makes me a little uncomfortable. Don’t ask me why.
That aside, the rest of this library is great. The upper floors (where it’s a lot more quiet, starting with the 4^th floor), and of course like others said, the 9^th floor (? think it’s this floor) winter garden is of course my favorite part of the building. Am also a fan of how they recently moved the security system entry/​exit points to the first floor, since I always hated that bag and security check when you exited the 3^rd floor for years.
Also to the person who criticized CPL for having video game systems like PS3, Xbox 360, etc. in the YouMedia section downstairs, I think it’s good that area has that if anything. A lot of young people (even 30 and 40 somethings) like video games, and if that keeps the youngins using the YouMedia area happy who often come from poor backgrounds happy, good for them. I just wish you could check out video games in the CPL system, just like certain suburban libraries allow for (Norridge/​Harwood Heights, Des Plaines, Schaumburg, etc).

To start: HWLC is an excellent library and cornerstone of the Chicago Public Library system. They have an exquisite collection of books, popular as well as obscure, and rival only Schaumburg’s and private colleges (which general do not lend out to the general public) regarding their media collection. However, it could still take steps to make it a nicer and less intimidating place.
With content and a place to study it available on nearly every floor, this library is a grand place. Thankfully, its consistent layout and design keep the average person from getting lost in it. The study carrels and tables are available in the same area for every floor.
Since the Harold Washington Library is located in the heart of the Loop, the library is intended to accommodate a lot of people. On a busy day, one might see hundreds of computers occupied by patrons. However, I’ve always found that there is a place to sit — even if it isn’t my favorite spot.
The bookshelves are tidy and kept in good order in floors 3 through floor 7. However, the 8^th floor, which contains the Art and Music Collection, is considerably less organized. Rows of art books are tipped over every which way, and it’s not especially uncommon to see a few «aspiring artists» crouched down and skimming through the books between the aisles.
Compared to several years ago, the security officers at the library have been considerably more polite. They do a fair job at maintaining order and enforcing library policies, such as the policies against sitting on the floor and excessive noise. However, when these people aren’t around, some of the patrons «go nuts».
The library’s internet is impressive for a public hotspot. While it has an average download speed because of the amount of people that use its WiFi, I was able to upload things rather quickly. Patrons who possess a library card can access a list of online resources that are plentiful, and accessible even for reciprocal borrowers.
Just as several other people mentioned here on Unilocal,I have witnessed a man shamelessly watch pornography on a CPL computer. Technically, this is not against library policy. The current CPL computer guidelines state: «It is not within the purview of the Library to monitor access to or content of any resources for any segment of the population». I have yet to witness it a second time to bring up a complaint, but still have the sneaking suspicion that few people wish to be tattlers on the ubiquitous «porno watcher (s).»
Of course, there are also the homeless patrons of the library whose presence intimidate wary patrons such as myself. While the library has no means or right to prevent these homeless patrons from accessing the library, many are destitute and choose to utilize Harold Washington as a daytime homeless shelter. The library could do a better job at preventing panhandling, as well as ensuring that the washrooms aren’t overrun with these folks bathing and washing their clothes.

Listen. Its a HUGE library with a lot to offer, but… This library is literally a homeless encampment. Literally. All over. On all floors. You literally are hardly safe. Though there are various «security personnel» walking around, it’s totally all for show as they were nowhere to be found the two times I was accosted. Anyway, as a result of the homeless encampment-​like environment (which library personnel really can do nothing about — because this branch is a designated warming center), there are a fair amount of folks begging, starring, following you, and just being crazy. I can’t see how anyone gets any substantial work done in there. Now I see why all the other law students just stay at the law library on campus. My goodness. It’s not worth it and I’m not likely to come back to get any work done; maybe to pickup a book or something like that, but never again wi th the aim to get anything substantial done. If you have kids, DO NOT SEND THEM THERE ALONE!!!

Gorgeous library. I dropped in here after needing a place to warm up when it started to surprise snow on me. The interior is huge and spacious, with gorgeous high ceilings. Free wifi, plenty of room, any book I could think of (maybe I just couldn’t think of that many books… possible).
Computers and lots of other electronics scattered throughout, as well as pretty extensive childrens and young adult sections. Staff are super friendly and helpful, and there’s plenty of seating to just relax and read as you wait for the snow to stop.
Very top floor is a really cool «oasis» with a few tables. It’s very quiet, mainly filled with people studying, and it’s a very peaceful place to spend a bit of time.

Absolutely gorgeous library in Downtown Chicago which I had to see during my trip to Chicago. I’d imagine if I was a local I’d be frequenting this enormous library. It makes me happy to know that this large space can be maintained so well, while many public resources are frequently losing funding, but I digress.
Obviously you’ll need to take a walk up to the beautiful spaced tucked away on the 9^th floor, even if just for a short look. :)

I love coming here, I start to look something up and then I’m heading into a new diection, the microform room is great newspapers on film from the 1800s hours go by before you know it, a great place to visit if your from out of town.

This is a big, pretty, public library in the lower part of the loop. I am very happy that there is free Wi-​Fi and plenty of room. They do come up to you if you are talking on the phone in the stacks. Those conversations are only allowed in the hallway.
The librarians are hit and miss on whether they are being warm and friendly. The first time I truly visited this location 2 out of the 3 librarians were not really helpful and sort of rude. Luckily, one of the three librarians I talked to that day took the extra step to ask questions and help me as much as he could.
I have become a huge fan of MakerLab in this library. They have several 3D printers. It helps that I have done design work on a CAD software before, because that allowed me to try my hand at 3D printing. This portion of the library is very busy and active. This is the portion of the library that makes me want to come and visit over and over again. The librarians in the MakerLab are more artistic in their background. They are willing to help. Go in with a plan, and a start of a design if you are of engineering/​building bent.

Beautiful and functional with a feeling of immediate accessibility, much like the San Francisco Public Library and unlike the New York Public Library, which I’ve always felt is more style than substance.

This building is incredible. You have to visit the top floor which they call the winter garden. They offer a lot of different things to do there. They had puzzles out and that sort of thing. They had wifi which had pretty good signal. Visit the top!

Wow. This library is a work of art. Amazingly beautiful on the outside AND inside. Take a few minutes (or an afternoon) to go to the Atrium on the 9^th floor. It’s an oasis. A beautiful indoor garden that is just as serene as it sounds. I could’ve stayed in there for hours, but we got kicked out because the library was closing. Bring a book, or don’t, and check out this atrium. It’s…breathtaking.

Outstanding library. There is a children’s center, a teen’s center, a popular works location, over 100 public computers, and endless isles of books.
This is the best library in the Chicago public library system which has over 70 branches throughout the city.
It is easy to reserve a computer, you just need a library card, if you don’t have one you can acquire one within minutes with a state-​issued ID. The reservation system will automatically reserve a computer for you for one full hour. Public computers are on the fourth floor.

Once you step out the elevators of the 9^th floor, you’ll swear you found the secret door to Narnia. The Winter Garden awaits you with its high ceilings, natural lighting and enchanting space. Quiet, strong wifi, and plenty of open tables. In case nature calls, the restrooms on 9 are pretty clean which is surprising for a public area! Just note, I didn’t see any outlets around me (in the garden) to plug in so come fully charged.

A maker space (3D printer, laser cutter, etc.). Free wifi. A «winter garden» reading room on the top floor. Music practice rooms. Music listening rooms. A scale model of Cloud Gate. Jigsaw puzzles to work on the tables. A government documents library. Civil War cannons. Art and literary quotations everywhere. A floor of public computers. The Chicago Public Library has the scope and grandeur truly befitting a public repository of knowledge.
Others have compared it (unfavorably) to the Boston or New York Public Libraries, but those bastions were designed for a different time and place and seem chilly toward those who are not Serious Scholars.
I was thrilled to visit this library and wished I had more time on my trip to come back and work here, not to mention to be there at the right time for some of the literary and cultural programs hosted here.

I visited Chicago when I was 11 years old with my family and we were featured in the Chicago Sun Times. 1999 was a long time ago though and you can’t find that kind of stuff on the World Wide Web yet so I had to resort to hitting up the library and searching through the Microfilm section like it was 1982 and I was in a mystery movie.
This was my first venture into the library and it seems like a cool place to hang out. Betsy helped me find what I needed and she was just the sweetest older lady anyone could ask for as a partner in crime on my newspaper search.
I had heard rumors about the top floor of the library as a small oasis in the noisy city and I was so happy the rumors were true. Very cute and I am wondering if they open up the doors in the summer?

«Outside of a dog, a book is man’s best friend;
inside of a dog, it’s too dark to read.» –Groucho Marx
Tell me I have a simple-​minded sense of humor, but I never grow tired of seeing that quote above the check-​out counter in the Popular Library at HWLC. Maybe I’m biased, since my mother was a university librarian and met my father there, but libraries have been a part of my life since I started checking out books when I was four or five. Public libraries are the original Netflix, though you trade off home delivery for their being free.
I’m fortunate to have HWLC as my local branch; I only hope that they maintain those gargantuan green owls on the roof. I wouldn’t want to fall prey if one of them were to accidentally soar down to the ground.
What’s great about this library is that you can roam its nine or ten floors, starting with the Winter Garden at the top. I’ve been there on sunny afternoons and for a wedding reception at night, and it’s always delightful. Go down a floor, and you have a musician’s dream of music for every instrument, and even practice rooms. Wander through the fiction, business, and foreign language books. In fact, wander through any art or science book that you heart imagines. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, they’ll ship it here from any of 50 or 60 or how ever many branches they have. Didn’t take speed reading? You can renew online. Think of a book you want to read & pick-​up next time you’re there? Just put a hold online. Truly amazing. And they’re changing with the times, with online books for reading or even listening. Speaking of Googling, they have free Wi-​Fi and even free computers to use if you need one.
How many government services are open for twelve hours per day? Not many. But you can go to HWLC any time between 9 am and 9 pm Mon. — Thurs., and they’re even open on weekends.
Need some help? The librarians are professional, and they are equally valuable in this age of Google. (I.e., they won’t make you page through 500 pages of results to find what you’re looking for. I only wish that Dewey’s ghost would come back and invent a Google Decimal System so that we could quickly narrow in on a topic. and get on with things.)
The Chicago Public Library is one of the gems of a city that reads. (How many cities have you been where people actually read on the bus or the train?) It really became a gem when Mary Dempsey rehabbed the organization years ago. (That was before Rahm-​bo kicked her to the curb. He seems to have a lot more time to spend on educational efforts like the Star Wars museum, which he thinks deserves to sit with those prominent names on the lake: Field, Adler, Shedd, and… Lucas? And why not? Surely Darth ranks up there with Sue the dinosaur, black holes and a living reef at a latitude of 42 degrees.)
As FDR once said, «Libraries are. .. essential to the functioning of a democratic society…» I hope Chicago will continue to recognize this, despite Rahm’s choice of private schools for his kids.

Bookamania!!! Annually, this occurs the Saturday before Thanksgiving at Harold Washington Library. Storytelling, arts and crafts are on one level, A local bookstore has books available for sale. There were 12 free books per child this year. Authors of several books are available to sign and answer questions their fans may have.
This is a great annual family outing. It can get a little crowded, but it’s manageable.

Harold Washington Library is huge! 756,000 square feet and 10 storey high.
It can be a little confusing if you are not sure where you going… and as usual I was not sure where I was going…
Special Collection and Exhibition free for all to enjoy. And thanks for having free wifi access.
The winter garden up at the 9^th floor is a nice space. Nice enough even for a wedding reception!
Aside from that, I found the interior a little be cold and impersonal…

I used to come to this library a lot when I was younger since you could find everything you would need for your grade school or high school papers. Plus, there’s even a conservatory on the top floor which grants great views of the city. I’m glad to see that the public library system has embraced technology and provides stimulating and progressive opportunities such as a 3D printer to study and learn!
If you have a CPL card, make sure to check out their revamped website! You can put holds on books, download books to your electronic device (laptop, Kindle, iPad, etc) and even magazines!

This library is pretty awesome. As someone who travels frequently, you start to find places that you can hang out in for free in every city. Libraries are generally a safe bet. At this point, I’ve seen the main branches of libraries in every major city I’ve been to. This library is probably one of the nicest ones I have visited.
I spent hours on the top floor of this library in the performing arts section going through opera scores. The selection was decent, though I have seen quite a bit better. They also had a listening area and practice rooms! Usually, I have to bring my computer so I can track down a CD for the opera to listen to while with skimming the score. And I don’t even need to explain the beauty of practice rooms at the library.
The library was very clean and organized. They have security guards wandering around that kind of need to get hobbies. I was going through the scores on my knees and one of the guards told me I had to stand. Ok. Get a life. I’m tall, and move the books to eye level only if that’s a problem.
Finding a book here would probably be a problem. The shelves were a disorganized mess. So if you want something specific, good luck.
Fast and free wifi.

Easily the most beautiful public library I’ve ever been to (although many of the other CPL libraries are in quaint, historic buildings – Harold Washington is rightfully the flagship branch)! I registered for a free vinyl cutting course recently in the library’s Maker Space lab. The lab has laptops, vinyl cutters, 3D printers, and laser cutters with free workshops/​classes, open lab time (if you’re already experienced and know what you’re doing), and you can reserve the lab for private workshops, too. The entire library has free wifi, so it’d be a great place to come do work or just check a few emails, if you’re in the neighborhood.