Family Story Time

Join us for stories, songs and fun for the family! For kids 0 to 5 and their families. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@c......More

Join us for stories, songs and fun for the family! For kids 0 to 5 and their families. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Open Shop

Drop in during Open Shop to: Get a brief software overview Find out how we can help with your project Check out what people are making Use a laser cutter, electronic cutter, 3D printer, sewing machine, hot glue guns, and your creativity. Would you rather join a......More

Drop in during Open Shop to: Get a brief software overview Find out how we can help with your project Check out what people are making Use a laser cutter, electronic cutter, 3D printer, sewing machine, hot glue guns, and your creativity. Would you rather join a class? Try one of our scheduled workshops. Can't make it to Open Shop but would like assistance? Fill out an Ask a Maker form. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Gamer's Universe Showdown Series

Join us for Gamer's Universe Showdown Series, our monthly esports celebration leading up to the 2025 edition of Gamer's Universe. The Chicago Teen Gamer's Guild will run Mario Kart Wii and Super Smash Bros. Ultim......More

Join us for Gamer's Universe Showdown Series, our monthly esports celebration leading up to the 2025 edition of Gamer's Universe. The Chicago Teen Gamer's Guild will run Mario Kart Wii and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate tournaments plus a Just Dance tournament. SquidWest will host Splatoon 3 locals. You just need to bring your switch, copy of the game, headset, and controller. We will also have a variety of free-play stations throughout the day featuring our favorite competitive and non-competitive games. No registration is required for any of the tournaments or activities. All ages and skill levels are welcome! Registration for Mario Kart Wii begins at noon, and the tournament will start at 12:30 pm. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate registration begins at 1:30 pm, and the tournament will start at 2:00 pm. Splatoon 3 will run throughout the day, but arrive early to get a spot in the competition. This event is hosted by YOUmedia and the Chicago Teen Gamer’s Guild, a group of teens creating inclusive gaming experiences across Chicago. It is supported in partnership with I Play Games! Nintendo is not a sponsor or affiliated with this tournament. Nintendo License #: NA24-AABPA-F00613 Terms for participating in and viewing Community Tournaments using Nintendo Games Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

ABOVE AND BEYOND: The Story of Cpl. William T. Perkins Film Screening with National Veterans Museum

Join us for a special live screening celebrating the life and extraordinary service of Cpl. William T. Perkins Jr. USMC, Hosted by the National Veterans Art Museum. Harold Washington Library Center, YOUmedia Center, 1st Floor Saturday, May 24 - 1:30pm (following the......More

Join us for a special live screening celebrating the life and extraordinary service of Cpl. William T. Perkins Jr. USMC, Hosted by the National Veterans Art Museum. Harold Washington Library Center, YOUmedia Center, 1st Floor Saturday, May 24 - 1:30pm (following the Memorial Day Parade) On October 12, 1967, during Operation Medina in the Hai Lang National Forest, Cpl. William T. Perkins Jr., USMC, made the ultimate sacrifice—throwing himself onto an enemy grenade to shield his fellow Marines. He is the only combat photographer in U.S. history to receive the Medal of Honor, our nation’s highest award for valor. Thirty years later, his friend Craig Ingraham set out on a journey to uncover the truth of that fateful day. What he found was more than just the story of a hero—it was a profound look into friendship, loss, and the legacy of a man whose final act saved lives. “Above and Beyond: The Story of Cpl. William T. Perkins Jr.” is a powerful documentary that weaves together Perkins’ own combat footage, personal letters, and interviews with his family and fellow Marines. Actor Dennis Franz narrates Perkins’ Medal of Honor citation. This film is more than a tribute to Bill Perkins—it’s a reflection on sacrifice, duty, and the human cost of war. Whether you’re a veteran, teen, historian, filmmaker, or simply someone who values untold stories of bravery, this screening will leave a lasting impact. Event Highlights • Exclusive screening of ABOVE AND BEYOND • Q&A session with Debora Masterson, film producer, local to Chicago.

Make a MoodBoard with Mutuall Design

Join the Maker Lab for a hands-on workshop where you will get to create your very own moodboard! This is a fun opportunity to express your creativity by collaging a variety of provided photos, prints, and other media. Whether you are putting together an inspiration bo......More

Join the Maker Lab for a hands-on workshop where you will get to create your very own moodboard! This is a fun opportunity to express your creativity by collaging a variety of provided photos, prints, and other media. Whether you are putting together an inspiration board for a future project or simply looking for a creative activity, this workshop is for you! Feel free to also bring your own collaging materials! All skill levels are welcome - come join our growing community of creatives, led by Chicago's very own Mutuall Design Studio Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event. Photo provided by Mutuall Design Studio

Tween Scene: Button Me Up!

Join us for Tween Scene – a casual hangout where you can meet others your age, play games, get crafty, and try out fun featured activities. Make your own creative pins using our button making machine. For tweens 10 to 14 and not yet in high school. Accessibility Ne......More

Join us for Tween Scene – a casual hangout where you can meet others your age, play games, get crafty, and try out fun featured activities. Make your own creative pins using our button making machine. For tweens 10 to 14 and not yet in high school. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Parachute Play

Join us for half an hour of songs, stories and parachute movement! For kids 0 to 5 with their caregivers. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email ......More

Join us for half an hour of songs, stories and parachute movement! For kids 0 to 5 with their caregivers. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

All CPL Locations Closed Monday, May 26

All CPL locations are closed Monday, May 26 for Memorial Day.

Make A 2-Color Sticker with Cricut

Design a simple two-color vinyl sticker with the electronic Cricut cutter.  Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.or......More

Design a simple two-color vinyl sticker with the electronic Cricut cutter.  Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Open Shop

Drop in during Open Shop to: Get a brief software overview Find out how we can help with your project Check out what people are making Use a laser cutter, electronic cutter, 3D printer, sewing machine, hot glue guns, and your creativity. Would you rather join a......More

Drop in during Open Shop to: Get a brief software overview Find out how we can help with your project Check out what people are making Use a laser cutter, electronic cutter, 3D printer, sewing machine, hot glue guns, and your creativity. Would you rather join a class? Try one of our scheduled workshops. Can't make it to Open Shop but would like assistance? Fill out an Ask a Maker form. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

English Classes for Intermediate Levels/Clases de Inglés de Nivel Intermedio

Join an English class led by an Erie House tutor in the Popular Library of the Harold Washington Library Center. In each class, you will study intermediate-level English and learn about the library's English study resources......More

Join an English class led by an Erie House tutor in the Popular Library of the Harold Washington Library Center. In each class, you will study intermediate-level English and learn about the library's English study resources such as Cell-Ed.  Classes will be held on six Thursdays from April 24th to May 29th. Thursday, 4/24, 12:00-1:00 pm Thursday, 5/1, 12:00-1:00 pm Thursday, 5/8, 12:00-1:00 pm Thursday, 5/15, 12:00-1:00 pm Thursday, 5/22, 12:00-1:00 pm Thursday, 5/29, 12:00-1:00 pm Erie House is a modern social service nonprofit with programming and resources for children & youth, mental health & community wellness, adult education & training, legal services, and more. Son invitados a tomar clases de inglés dirigidas por un maestro de Erie House en la Popular Library en el primer piso de la Biblioteca Harold Washington. En cada clase aprenderá inglés intermedio y cómo utilizar recursos tales como Cell-Ed. Las clases se llevarán acabo seis jueves del 24 de abril al 29 de mayo.  Erie House es una organización comunitaria sin fines de lucro comprometida con el bienestar de las familias. Provee programas para niños, jóvenes, adultos y familias. Ofrece recursos sobre la salud mental y bienestar comunitario, educación y entrenamiento para adultos, servicios legales, y más. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Open Shop

Drop in during Open Shop to: Get a brief software overview Find out how we can help with your project Check out what people are making Use a laser cutter, electronic cutter, 3D printer, sewing machine, hot glue guns, and your creativity. Would you rather join a......More

Drop in during Open Shop to: Get a brief software overview Find out how we can help with your project Check out what people are making Use a laser cutter, electronic cutter, 3D printer, sewing machine, hot glue guns, and your creativity. Would you rather join a class? Try one of our scheduled workshops. Can't make it to Open Shop but would like assistance? Fill out an Ask a Maker form. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Karaoke and Treats

Check out YOUmedia's teen only karaoke. Hop on the mic solo or with your friends! Hog the spotlight or cheer others on, it's up to you. We'll provide songs, treats and a mic--all you have to bring is your voice and enthusiasm. For teens 14 to 18. Accessibility Need ......More

Check out YOUmedia's teen only karaoke. Hop on the mic solo or with your friends! Hog the spotlight or cheer others on, it's up to you. We'll provide songs, treats and a mic--all you have to bring is your voice and enthusiasm. For teens 14 to 18. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Surrealist Game Night

It’s art game night! Come to the Arts & Music floor to play a selection of games from A Book of Surrealist Games by Alastair Brotchie. Explore the ways that play and chance can help you tap into you......More

It’s art game night! Come to the Arts & Music floor to play a selection of games from A Book of Surrealist Games by Alastair Brotchie. Explore the ways that play and chance can help you tap into your unconscious and get inspired. “This delightful collection allows everyone to enjoy firsthand the provocative methods used by the artists and poets of the Surrealist school to break through conventional thought and behavior to a deeper truth. Invented and played by such artists as Andre Breton, Rene Magritte, and Max Ernst, these games still produce results ranging from hilarious to the mysterious and profound." Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Senator Ron Wyden: It Takes Chutzpah: How to Fight Fearlessly for Progressive Change

Senator Ron Wyden appears in conversation to discuss his new book, It Takes Chutzpah: How to Fight Fearlessly for Progressive Change. He will be in conversation with Illinois Governor J. B. Pritzker.  Ron Wyden, a Democratic Senator from Oregon, served in the U......More

Senator Ron Wyden appears in conversation to discuss his new book, It Takes Chutzpah: How to Fight Fearlessly for Progressive Change. He will be in conversation with Illinois Governor J. B. Pritzker.  Ron Wyden, a Democratic Senator from Oregon, served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1981 until his 1995 election to the U.S. Senate. Oregonians—and all attentive Americans—know Wyden as a senator who listens and innovates. The son of two refugees from Nazi Germany, he was born in Wichita and lived in Chicago, St. Louis, and Washington D.C., as his father Peter Wyden, a journeyman journalist and later a best-selling author, pursued his career and curiosity. Wyden's new book, It Takes Chutzpah, is an inspirational call to action by a senior U.S. politician, describing how Americans of all age groups, persuasions, and occupations can defy convention, chart new pathways for their communities, schools, at work and in life. US Senator Ron Wyden is widely praised for coming up with sensible-sounding ideas no one else had thought of and making the counter-intuitive political alliances that prove helpful in passing bills. In It Takes Chutzpah, he offers a progressive leader’s manifesto for being a courageous warrior during turbulent times. Senator Wyden's conversation partner for the evening will be Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. Governor JB Pritzker is Illinois’ 43rd Governor, elected in 2018 and reelected in 2022 with the highest vote share for any Democratic governor in more than 60 years. During his tenure, he has worked with the General Assembly to overcome years of fiscal mismanagement by balancing the state budget every year, eliminating the state’s multi-billion-dollar bill backlog, improving pension funding, and achieving nine credit rating upgrades. He raised the minimum wage to a living wage and made historic investments to infrastructure. Governor Pritzker led nation-leading climate action and clean energy expansion, creating thousands of new jobs and doubling the state’s renewable energy production. With a focus on families and children, his leadership has led to an assault weapons ban, nation-leading reproductive rights protections, a ban on book bans, and guaranteed paid leave for every worker in the state. Governor Pritzker and his wife, MK, have been married for more than 30 years, and they are the proud parents of two children. How to Attend: Doors to the Auditorium open at 5:30 p.m., and seating is first come, first served (350 capacity). Books are available for purchase and the author will autograph books at the conclusion of the program. This event will also take place live on CPL's YouTube channel and CPL's Facebook page. You'll be able to ask questions during the event as well! Can't make it to the live stream? We'll archive the video on YouTube to watch later. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event. Photo credit: Wyden: courtesy of the author; Pritzker: courtesy of the Governor's office

Crochet for Beginners

Have you always wanted to learn to crochet but haven't gotten around to picking up a hook? This is the class for you. Come learn the basic skills and stitches that are the basis of every crochet project. Classes and workshops at the Maker Lab are for ages 14 and up.  ......More

Have you always wanted to learn to crochet but haven't gotten around to picking up a hook? This is the class for you. Come learn the basic skills and stitches that are the basis of every crochet project. Classes and workshops at the Maker Lab are for ages 14 and up.  Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Family Story Time

Join us for stories, songs and fun for the family! For kids 0 to 5 and their families. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@c......More

Join us for stories, songs and fun for the family! For kids 0 to 5 and their families. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Living Your Hero's Journey: A Workshop for Bringing Your Highest Potential to the World

Rev. Dr. Patricia Novick is an activist and ordained minister who has worked with organizations that include Enlace Chicago, Erie Neighborhood House, Mujeres Latinas en Acción, and the Latino Policy Forum. She recently led the Unsung Community Heroes project for the Il......More

Rev. Dr. Patricia Novick is an activist and ordained minister who has worked with organizations that include Enlace Chicago, Erie Neighborhood House, Mujeres Latinas en Acción, and the Latino Policy Forum. She recently led the Unsung Community Heroes project for the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation.    In a 2-hour workshop, participants are helped to think about the elements of their personal hero’s journey—their core values and mission, the obstacles they face, and their inner and outer resources. From this self-exploration, they create a prototype avatar that they can keep near them to remind them of their highest values and goals, and to remind them of the sources of resilience and support that they can access on their journey. They will be shown examples of avatars that they might choose to create. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Latin American Authors Book Club: Reputations

Are you interested in reading books by international authors? Join the Latin American Authors Book Club. Each month, you will experience a variety of literature written by contemporary Latin American authors. This month's title is Reputations by Juan Gabriel Vá......More

Are you interested in reading books by international authors? Join the Latin American Authors Book Club. Each month, you will experience a variety of literature written by contemporary Latin American authors. This month's title is Reputations by Juan Gabriel Vásquez from Colombia. Javier Mallarino, Colombia’s most influential political cartoonist, is celebrated for a remarkable career. But just hours after a ceremony honoring his legacy, a chance meeting with a young woman forces him to revisit a troubling event from his past. The encounter calls into question his reputation and life's work. How to Attend This event is available in person and online. Attend in person at the Harold Washington Library Center, 8th floor, room 8S-14 Attend online via Zoom Only one registration per household is needed. You’ll receive an email with a link to the secure Zoom meeting about 24 hours before the meeting. Questions about attending online events? Check out our Events FAQs. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Parachute Play

Join us for half an hour of songs, stories and parachute movement! For kids 0 to 5 with their caregivers. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email ......More

Join us for half an hour of songs, stories and parachute movement! For kids 0 to 5 with their caregivers. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.