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Library for the People

Chicago Public Library: Library for the People

Chicago Public Library is turning 150 and we have stories to tell. This six-episode limited series 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. 

Join us as we go behind the scenes, get an insider’s view of how libraries work and come away with a renewed appreciation for why they matter more than ever.

Chicago Public Library

Chicago Public Library is turning 150 and we have stories to tell. This six-episode limited series 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. 

Join us as we go behind the scenes, get an insider’s view of how libraries work and come away with a renewed appreciation for why they matter more than ever.

Chicago Public Library
4hr 9min
Thumbnail for "Ep. 6: The Future of Libraries".
After a century and a half of the Chicago Public Library, what will the next 150 years bring for the future of the organization and libraries in general?
July 25, 202341min 55sec60.43 MB
Thumbnail for "Ep. 5: Accelerators of Social Impact".
A library connects individuals to like-minded communities, providing not only a sense of camaraderie and fellowship, but also a broad network of skills and education to further their life’s ambitions.
July 18, 202337min 57sec54.73 MB
Thumbnail for "Ep. 4: How do you Design a Public Library for the 21st Century?".
Innovative design and architecture plans for libraries can help to better achieve the specific needs of the various communities they serve.
July 11, 202342min 21sec61.07 MB
Thumbnail for "Ep. 3: Of Book Bans and Book Sanctuaries".
Libraries have put themselves at the front lines of the debate around free speech by creating book sanctuaries, or spaces where citizens’ freedom to read is protected.
June 27, 202343min 52sec63.26 MB
Thumbnail for "Ep. 2: The Library as the Soul of the Community".
Library leaders created vibrant community spaces in their local branches throughout history, including The Black Renaissance, and those efforts still continue today.
June 20, 202341min 30sec59.83 MB
Thumbnail for "Ep. 1: From the Great Chicago Fire Rises a Public Library".
A catastrophic event in 1871 caused a series of events that aided in the start and evolution of Chicago Public Library.
June 20, 202338min 23sec55.34 MB
Thumbnail for "Library For The People - Igniting Minds, Transforming Communities: Chicago Public Library's 150-Year Journey".
Uncover the untold stories of Chicago Public Library's 150-year legacy.
June 15, 20233min 30sec5.12 MB
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