AI Detective Quiz Show

Are those photos on your friend's Insta real? What about the latest viral video on TikTok? Can you spot what is AI and what is not? Compete with your friends and test your assumptions in our rapid-fire quiz game!  For high school teens 13-19 Accessibility Need si......More

Are those photos on your friend's Insta real? What about the latest viral video on TikTok? Can you spot what is AI and what is not? Compete with your friends and test your assumptions in our rapid-fire quiz game!  For high school teens 13-19 Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

The Silent Scribe Society: Writing Program

Through this writing group, we will continue the legacy of writers that gathered before our times. As a member of the Silent Scribe Society, you can air out your woes, successes, and goals you have for your literature. You can focus on your craft and get your story wri......More

Through this writing group, we will continue the legacy of writers that gathered before our times. As a member of the Silent Scribe Society, you can air out your woes, successes, and goals you have for your literature. You can focus on your craft and get your story written! Come join writers who truly believe that it is the responsibility of artists to reflect the times. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event. Photo provided by Ehren Muhammad

Knit Together

Join experienced needleworker Adriana Reyneri for a beginner-friendly knitting and crochet group. Bring your own projects or challenge yourself to start something new. Materials will be provided by the library. Note: this is a drop-in program, no registration is requi......More

Join experienced needleworker Adriana Reyneri for a beginner-friendly knitting and crochet group. Bring your own projects or challenge yourself to start something new. Materials will be provided by the library. Note: this is a drop-in program, no registration is required. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

English Class for Beginners With Erie House/Clases de Inglés Para Principiantes con La Casa Erie

Join us in the Popular Library at the Harold Washington Library Center for an English language class led by Erie House. In each class, you will learn basic English and about the library's English study resources such as ......More

Join us in the Popular Library at the Harold Washington Library Center for an English language class led by Erie House. In each class, you will learn basic English and about the library's English study resources such as Cell-Ed.  Erie House is a modern social service nonprofit with programming and resources for children and youth, mental health and community wellness, adult education and training, legal services, and more. Son invitados a tomar una clase de inglés dirigida por un maestro de Erie House en la Popular Library en el primer piso de la Biblioteca Harold Washington. En cada clase aprenderá inglés básico y cómo usar recursos tales como Cell-Ed. 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 communitario, 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 [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event. Accesibilidad ¿Necesitas interpretación en lenguaje de señas u otro tipo de ayuda de accesibilidad para este evento? Comunícate por teléfono al (312) 747-8184 o por correo electrónico [email protected] para solicitar adaptaciones. Las solicitudes se deben hacer como mínimo 14 días hábiles antes del evento.

Make a Personalized Ornament with Sublimation Printing

Customize a ornament with your own photos and designs with sublimation printing. We'll provide a template for you to personalize your ornament then transfer it to a small metal ornament using sublimation printing. Participants who want to add their own photos must be a......More

Customize a ornament with your own photos and designs with sublimation printing. We'll provide a template for you to personalize your ornament then transfer it to a small metal ornament using sublimation printing. Participants who want to add their own photos must be able to access them on a Maker Lab computer via their own USB drive or online account.  Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email [email protected] 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 [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Sewing Hour

Curious about sewing accessories, clothes, or plushies? Interested in learning to use a sewing machine or upgrading your skills? Join a librarian in experimenting with different fabrics, mending rips and holes in clothes, working on projects from home, and bouncing aro......More

Curious about sewing accessories, clothes, or plushies? Interested in learning to use a sewing machine or upgrading your skills? Join a librarian in experimenting with different fabrics, mending rips and holes in clothes, working on projects from home, and bouncing around ideas related to all things textile art!  All sewing materials will be provided! Participants are also encouraged to bring clothing and materials from home, if desired. Sewing certification is also available during sewing hour. To use sewing machines independently in YOUmedia, teens must complete one short class that the covers the basics on threading your machine and stitching fabric. For high school teens ages 13 to 19 Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

3D Prints: Holiday Gifts

Need a last minute present for the holidays? Want some inspo? Come to YOUmedia and customize a 3D print for family and friends! Prints can be collected later. For teens in High School Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance fo......More

Need a last minute present for the holidays? Want some inspo? Come to YOUmedia and customize a 3D print for family and friends! Prints can be collected later. For teens in High School Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Celebrate Kwanzaa: A Festival of Light with Mama Edie McLoud Armstrong

Join us to celebrate one of the world’s great Festivals of Light — the Karamu ya Kwanzaa (the Feast of Kwanzaa) — with Mama Edie McLoud Armstrong, the Bilingual Storytelling Speech Pathologist. During this engaging and interactive presentation, Mama Edie will guide yo......More

Join us to celebrate one of the world’s great Festivals of Light — the Karamu ya Kwanzaa (the Feast of Kwanzaa) — with Mama Edie McLoud Armstrong, the Bilingual Storytelling Speech Pathologist. During this engaging and interactive presentation, Mama Edie will guide you through the history, pronunciations, and meanings of the Kiswahili terms and symbols that shape the Kwanzaa celebration. Be inspired by how practicing the Nguzo Saba (“The Seven Principles”) every day of the year can help strengthen our communities and promote unity throughout the world. For all ages. How to Attend Register by the start of the event. Chicago Public Library cannot collect personal information online from kids 0 to 13. A parent or guardian’s email address must be used to register. As a reminder, school email addresses may block external emails such as those from CPL. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event. Photo Credit: Rose Blouin

Kwanzaa-Inspired Jewelry Making Workshop with Journey and Thingz

Join us for a special jewelry-making workshop inspired by the spirit of Kwanzaa! In this hands-on program, participants will learn simple jewelry-making techniques while exploring the holiday’s seven principles —  Umoja (Unity) Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) Uji......More

Join us for a special jewelry-making workshop inspired by the spirit of Kwanzaa! In this hands-on program, participants will learn simple jewelry-making techniques while exploring the holiday’s seven principles —  Umoja (Unity) Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility)  Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) Nia (Purpose) Kuumba (Creativity) Imani (Faith) Create your own one-of-a-kind bracelet, necklace or earrings using vibrant beads and colors that reflect the values of heritage, community and self-expression. Perfect for all ages and skill levels, this workshop offers a chance to connect, celebrate and take home a wearable reminder of Kwanzaa’s meaning. For adults, teens and kids 6 and up. How to Attend Register by 2 p.m. Friday, December 19. Chicago Public Library cannot collect personal information online from kids 0 to 13. A parent or guardian’s email address must be used to register. As a reminder, school email addresses may block external emails such as those from CPL. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event. Photo source: Joy Joshua

Holiday Open House Drop-In

Drop by the Maker Lab between 11-3 for a variety of holiday and winter themed activities - including felt ornaments, button-making, paper folding, laser-cut pendants and more. Please note this is not Open Shop, and equipment will only be available for staff use and as......More

Drop by the Maker Lab between 11-3 for a variety of holiday and winter themed activities - including felt ornaments, button-making, paper folding, laser-cut pendants and more. Please note this is not Open Shop, and equipment will only be available for staff use and assistance with planned activities.  Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Tween Scene: Switch It 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. Come play Switch games on the big screen!  For tweens 10 to 14 and not yet in high school. Accessibility Need sign language i......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. Come play Switch games on the big screen!  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 [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Knit Together

Join experienced needleworker Adriana Reyneri for a beginner-friendly knitting and crochet group. Bring your own projects or challenge yourself to start something new. Materials will be provided by the library. Note: this is a drop-in program, no registration is requi......More

Join experienced needleworker Adriana Reyneri for a beginner-friendly knitting and crochet group. Bring your own projects or challenge yourself to start something new. Materials will be provided by the library. Note: this is a drop-in program, no registration is required. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

English Class for Beginners With Erie House/Clases de Inglés Para Principiantes con La Casa Erie

Join us in the Popular Library at the Harold Washington Library Center for an English language class led by Erie House. In each class, you will learn basic English and about the library's English study resources such as ......More

Join us in the Popular Library at the Harold Washington Library Center for an English language class led by Erie House. In each class, you will learn basic English and about the library's English study resources such as Cell-Ed.  Erie House is a modern social service nonprofit with programming and resources for children and youth, mental health and community wellness, adult education and training, legal services, and more. Son invitados a tomar una clase de inglés dirigida por un maestro de Erie House en la Popular Library en el primer piso de la Biblioteca Harold Washington. En cada clase aprenderá inglés básico y cómo usar recursos tales como Cell-Ed. 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 communitario, 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 [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event. Accesibilidad ¿Necesitas interpretación en lenguaje de señas u otro tipo de ayuda de accesibilidad para este evento? Comunícate por teléfono al (312) 747-8184 o por correo electrónico [email protected] para solicitar adaptaciones. Las solicitudes se deben hacer como mínimo 14 días hábiles antes del evento.

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 [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Sewing Hour

Curious about sewing accessories, clothes, or plushies? Interested in learning to use a sewing machine or upgrading your skills? Join a librarian in experimenting with different fabrics, mending rips and holes in clothes, working on projects from home, and bouncing aro......More

Curious about sewing accessories, clothes, or plushies? Interested in learning to use a sewing machine or upgrading your skills? Join a librarian in experimenting with different fabrics, mending rips and holes in clothes, working on projects from home, and bouncing around ideas related to all things textile art!  All sewing materials will be provided! Participants are also encouraged to bring clothing and materials from home, if desired. Sewing certification is also available during sewing hour. To use sewing machines independently in YOUmedia, teens must complete one short class that the covers the basics on threading your machine and stitching fabric. For high school teens ages 13 to 19 Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

All CPL Locations Closed Thursday, December 25

All CPL locations are closed Thursday, December 25 for Christmas Day.

YOUmedia Teen Recording Studio Certification

Want to reserve the YOUmedia HWLC Recording Studio? First, you have to get certified! Register for an introduction to sound recording, Garageband, equipment setup, saving and exporting audio files. After the certification, you can reserve the recording studio and work......More

Want to reserve the YOUmedia HWLC Recording Studio? First, you have to get certified! Register for an introduction to sound recording, Garageband, equipment setup, saving and exporting audio files. After the certification, you can reserve the recording studio and work on your projects independently. For High School teens 14 to 18. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email [email protected] to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.