Reviews of Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago Public Library (Library)

Eric Huynh

Breathtakingly grand library with many levels of books, exhibits and computers to take advantage of. You could probably spend an entire afternoon here.

Erin RavenSkye

As far as libraries go, this one is a bit sterile - everything is sectioned out and you have to go through security more than once depending on which department you're looking for. Sometimes things are hard to find and their wifi is almost non-existent. They are pretty good at putting things on hold, so if you're just running in to get your book and go, then this is the place for you. If you're looking for a place to stay, do research and camp out - I wouldn't recommend it.

Jonathan Ferrera

A very beautiful library and very large with each level catering to a number of sections. The escalators is preferable to the elevators, since the wait can be annoying. There's always a place to sit down and just write. The 9th floor, the Winter Garden, can only be accessed via escalator through the 8th floor.

Relhr Olt

The building it's truly impressive and massive, I went one and had to just get to the last floor to see the winter garden that is so beautiful, i couldn't check all the book selection and I can't wait for come back and spend my days in there. Didn't see creepy people

Caroline Wilhelm

There are so many resources here - from computers, to resume and financial help, maker space with lasers and 3D printing. It's also in a stunning space which is quiet and has nice long hours. It's one of the best places in Chicago.

Serenity

Children’s library at its best in quality of books n friendly staff

Iman Amini

Well it is the main Public Library in Chicago. I went there last week and became a member, an easy process thanks to friendly staff. The books I was looking for were reference, which means there is only one of them in CPL system and you cannot check them out, the bad news is that you cannot see which book is reference through their website, but the good news is that they are all kept in this Center. Nice building, nice spaces for reading. However, you can find all different kinds of ppl walking around since it's a public library!

Sonya Royzenblat

Such a great library! Each floor is unique and offers a great variety of books. The kids section is super interactive and fun. Highly recommend visiting the top floor.

Kevin Perry

While returning from overseas I stayed st Pacific Garden Mission and walked to the main library. Did much research, joined aa boo club and was recruited for a help in a parade. Large with accessable music, computer rooms, historical documentaries and performances. Best one I've seen yet.

Theo Kirkley

I just got a new library card with no hassle and immediately began using some of the many services that are provided. Everything about my experience today has been wonderful. Thank you to the people of Chicago.

Rob H

As far as libraries or architectural sites go it's okay

ABCXYZ 4444

This has to be one of the largest libraries which I've ever been in! Each floor has its own sections divided into different subject areas, so finding exactly what you need isn't difficult at all. There are more than enough public computers to serve everyone, and there are reference librarians on each floor to help you find just what you need. The library's main branch here, as well as all their other satellite branches throughout Greater Chicago are operated with ease and efficiency. That just goes without saying....

Matthias Lampe

Very impressive and beautiful architecture of the building. Books are accessible and ordered by topics on 8 floors. Don't miss a visit to the 9th floor with a beautiful winter garden. An ideal place for some quiet reading. There is a special media library for CDs, DVDs and graphic novels the Youlibrary. On the 3rd floor a maker lab with 3D printers, a laser cutter and electronics cutter is open to the public and they oder free classes.

Lana R.

What a library should be. It brought me joy to think of ALL the knowledge housed in this building. 8 floors of greatness. Music and arts located at the top floor. They have vinyl records for borrowing on shelves just like you'd have books. All the media labs are great too. The largest children's area I've ever seen in library, ANYWHERE..on the second floor. THIS PLACE IS GREATNESS. !!!

Henry Beltran

A+ for this library

Naronci W

My customer service experience via phone was horrible. I called to check out a book, they didn’t have it at this location. However, I was steered towards the library on 95th & Halsted? I asked about other locations, she stated the other one was far north. Not sure why she assumed I lived south as opposed to simply asking me but it felt very racially charged. I actually live on the northside in Lincoln Park. So, I disclosed that information to her. She then placed me on hold while she “contacted that library” and then hung up. Beautiful library, horrible phone rep.

Arika Kaosa

Really like the fact that this library has music practice rooms.

Jocelyn

I love this library, mostly, because it is quiet. My neighborhood library is not the most quiet place, so when I went to Harold I was surprised by how respectful people were to keep the silence. I cannot study at home because my family is too loud, and Wright does not have a very quiet place neither. The only problem I have is that is not open 24 hours. I go to school in the morning and work in the afternoon. I get out at 8 pm, so by that time the library is one hour away from closing. I think it would be more beneficial for many students if this library was open longer hours; mainly for students who do not have a library like DePaul to stay the night studying. If is because of safety, then maybe they could even take out IDs and only people with IDs are able to stay. Other than that, this is the best Public Library in Chicago.

Jocelyn Vega

It is an amazing location to study or simply to look around. The views are amazing. I always go there to study. The surroundings have good options for food as well.

Karl Peterman

One of the best huge libraries I've ever seen.

Fafane B.

This is unacceptable. I have been trying to connect with an associate to reserve a book for over 30mins. I called, a machine answered and had me on hold. When I finally had the chance to speak to someone, she was unable to assist and transferred me to the "first floor" (I'm not sure what that means). The phone rang and rang and rang for over 3mins no one answered then I was disconnected. Now try that again 3 times!!

Al L

I envy Chicagoans having such a nice library where they can study, have fun with puzzles, enjoy lunch or dinner in eating room, talk friends at top-floor winter room. As a tourist, I'm amazed by their fast internet speed - uploading 100+ SLR pictures around 1 minute.

John Ralyea

Good place to warm up on a cold day, except that in some day it doesn't open before noon and on others it closes at 5:00 pm. Lots of books, especially for research on Chicago commercial institutions and political history. Excellent programs for children.

Rekha V

A great library with numerous resources and lots of space to sit and get work done.

Beatriz Guzman

It's the best place to sit down and get work done. The library has a really calm atmosphere. Any book that you could possibly need can be found there. I always go there to study and do research.

Abhi Singh

Not the most clean library and the wif is the closest to abysmal you can get. Add that to the constant problem of homeless people in the library itself and its hard to even go to the bathroom without packing up all your stuff and having to relocate. The books found here may not be the most up to date and they may not have everything but their book sharing program with other libraries is phenomenal and they can easily have a book brought to the them or put on hold for you to pick up at another location. The staff is very friendly and welcoming and is always happy to help. However, they will look strictly at you if your phone accidentally goes off. Oops.

Nancy Chen

A wonderful library. Pleasant atrium on the 9th floor. Beautiful art department on the 8th floor. Also really enjoyed the innovative playground design exhibition on the 3rd floor. The Maker programming seems really cool too. If I lived in Chicago I'd be a regular for sure!!

FREEMAN STONE

Love this place, atmosphere and architecture. Every time I step in it’s my getaway

Lenore Campbell

Awesome library. A very cool building to walk around just to see the architecture. Make sure you go all the way to the 9th floor.

Valery Levitt

It can be a little confusing to navigate, but has tons of books and movies. The library policies have gotten better since I started coming here and you can now keep things longer if no one requests them. This location has long hours which is awesome and the staff is very helpful.

Julia

A very nice library. There are music practice rooms on the 8th floor and the upper floors (4 and higher) are quiet, and good for working in.

brodderick atwood

love the quality

Jacob Prue Benson

This library has potential but needs a bit of reorganizing. The floor with the Winter Garden should be expanded and the exhibits on display in the other parts to the library should be moved there. This way it can be Library and Museum but right now it is not the case. Also the winter garden needs more places to sit.

Lisa Gamez

A beautiful place. Pretty massive building that has more than just books as a library and the computer is always open. The best in Chicago. Best place to study and learn. I would love to come again.

Isabel Morales

I went to the 9th floor and it was kind of difficult for me to breathe, but it has a very vast collection of books

Andy Salient

I come here before work every other day. On the 8th floor they have free private practice rooms with a piano in each. It's one hour per room, once a day.

Sam Fike

Essential visit whenever in Chicago. Stunning building, inside and out. Massive collection has most anything you many desire. There is an auditorium in the basement featuring speakers often. Music CDs, especially jazz is extensive. Discarded items from the collection can also be gotten for free in a small room right off the media department on ground floor. Lots of space to study and relax. Nice exhibit room on the top floor with changing exhibits.

Tomachia Singley

Great place to enhance your mind and keeping up with the times.

Arseli UYANIK ALKAN

There are lots of books and toys option for the kids. If the weather is not nice tourists can prefer it. Kids can spend 2.5 hour or maybe more there.

Jonna Newberry

Pretty nice library. I like getting my books sent here to pick up. It's nice and big so you can definitely find a book. It's also by the train which is sooo nice!

Rosemarie Jackson

For completing piano lessons 8 rooms with donated pianos. 1 hour to practice once a day. .good place to study Sunday School lessons and bible study as well as class work.

Alex Brown

It has its downsides but you can't avoid some of that while being in the center of a big city. The elevators take a while to reach you, the bathrooms aren't very pleasant, and you'll likely come across disruptive people from time to time but make no mistake, this is easily one of the best libraries in the city and has a huge amount of resources. I'd also recommend the CPL app. It's saved me a few wasted trips and it's very easy to renew and hold books.

Eric Campos

Beautiful 9th/10th floor. It's a must see! And it's free! Take a book or take a friend and spend some time up there. Especially on a raining day, it's simply splendid.

Margaret Dorothy

This library is huge with lots of great books to read and study. Also, the library allows us to rent out movies for free! I found out we can pay for study rooms and use computers. If you are looking for a great view, go to the beautiful Winter Garden on the 9th floor, it is spectacular. Overall, this library offers lots of perks to give people a chance to learn comfortably!

Jiajie Yan

Staff so rude. Not sure everywhere but certainly on 8th floor, the music section. When I asked for booking a piano room and trying to confirm possibilities of booking, the staff said in sarcastical voice 'perhaps you didn't understand what I mean'. I didn't think this is the kind of language should be the norm in friendly and civilized places like library.

Randall Jamrok

Great resource for the community. Many books to access and learning opportunities. Workers are knowledgeable and dedicated.

Margaret Larkin

I've been here many times and will continue to go. The librarians are very helpful and friendly--better than what you find in the burbs. I don't think it's a great place to study or work because there are a number of people using it as a daytime shelter to sleep and hang out. I basically look for books, check out, and leave.

Paul Nagpal

What a noisy place? Employees are running around with carts in study area, people talking on the phone, people eating food and making noises in study area. Bathrooms full of homeless people making mess. What a waste of tax payers money?

JR

This is a very large library in Chicago. It is an historic building and worth a walk through. It has nine floors, all of which look more or less alike. The first two floors are worth seeing with the water fall and pool. The library was surprising quiet, and well stocked with books (if other people still read).

Mallory Baker

Beautiful! 9 stories and more books than I could have ever imagined. Clean and organized. When you reach a new floor there are handy written guides that tell you what books are on that level.

Qiao Qiao

I returned books to the return machine in the lobby. 2 books still in my account as borrowed. After waiting for 15 minutes, I returned 1 book today to an old lady in the front desk after she called me and said "Returning. Thank you!" The book is still in my account. Great place, bad service.

Ashley Cohen

The library offers a variety of books and resources, they also have a friendly and knowledgeable staff who would help you find what you need. They also have a space for you to relax and read you favorite book. Awesome place will definitely go back.

iris velez

Absolutely the BEST library in Chicago! They have almost an endless supply of resources and books on every subject. The childrens library within the library is beyond impressive and always surprises me with constant change and development.

Samantha Orlanzzini

Love this place for adults (especially the art section). Elementary school kids have a good space. High schoolers have an amazing drop in center for art, music, STEM.... but there is NOTHING for Middle Schoolers. Sometimes they have programs you can register in advance for but no tween center. The website makes it seem like there’s educational materials besides books for middle schoolers but no, just a small collection of books. Very disappointing and misleading for my middle schooler

Tiago Paraiso

Great architecture. Quiet interior. Good selection of books. You can also see the the Cloud Gate replica on the topmost floor.

Tucy Etkurtz

This is a luxurious library. I’ve never seen anything like it. My first visit was very confusing though because the inside of this library looks like a 5 STAR hotel of some sort. It is very clean and neat. The security guard who noticed I was confused about whether I was in a library or not was extremely enthusiastic and showed me a bit of the ground floor and how to maneuver and find my way throughout the library. This library has a huge selection of books as well and the experience was very calming. In my opinion, it’s the best library in the city of Chicago and I would definitely recommend it to family and friends

Amanuel Kibrom

The library is pretty good. I really like the architecture of the building. The people that work there are pretty courteous and they are always willing to help you.

Mike Holl

If you plan to get some work done here, here's my experience: Old insecure dude on the 5th floor thought I was snacking (I was chewing gum). Before I knew it multiple officers swarmed me like I was a public enemy #1. Translation: the librarians and security are more disruptive than the patrons.

Anna Ng

Go to the 9th floor using the elevator. The Winter Garden is beautiful. It was closed for a wedding when I went, but I was able to peek through the glass pane doors for a few photos.

Paul Woods

This is the one of the best libraries in Chicago. This location has various floors, charger plugs, a room for wedding event, books, computers, and other good resources. The library is surrounded by trains, buses, and stores. The only problem with this library that it has a lot of homeless people in here so be aware of your surroundings. Besides that it is a very good library.

Lillia Butler

I absolutely love going to this library! Always clean, bright and orderly.The staff are very kind and helpful.And it's very beautiful!

Jin Nam

The 9th floor is a fabulous place to see the special exhibits or to relax in a open, airy, bright space. Plenty of seating and spaced out enough to really feel like you are sitting in your own living room/study. The interactive innovation lab space set up on the third floor has interesting projects and free classes available. Great library.

Ms. Delgado

One of my most favorite places hang out at in Chicago. They always have tons to do here, too.

Vince Schauf

One of the most spacious, expansive libraries I have been to. The staff is very good and helpful. Their website is very good and you can extend the time that you have to bring back a book that you checked out. Their website makes this very easy to do. The vast volume of books and the amazing variety of books are awesome. Getting a library card here is very much worth it. I needed a scholarly article. To save space, they didn't have the periodical, but they had it on microfilm. I was able to copy the article on microfilm for no charge. The library isn't perfect. They have goofy people who want to hang out there, smell and make noise (so go to another floor if need be). One morning this month, security didn't allow anyone to use 3rd floor computers until noon for no apparent reason. But, again, the staff is very good. The book, periodical and magazine selection is excellent. There are exhibits that are historical............Harold Washington Library is a library that you can be proud to hold a library card from!

Alien X Inc.

Great library! Wonderful selection . I will highly recommend this for families

Kate Knickerbocker

This library branch is stunning. From the atrium on the top floor to the stacks to the special exhibits (from a comprehensive Charlie Trotter exhibit to a multimedia Burge victims space to etch-a-sketch art) are impressive. Love, love, love!

Jeff Rusnack

It's a beautiful building with giant owls on the outside! Inside the stairs take you to large collection of many Fields. The top has a gallery with displays that change a few times per year. The ground floor is beautiful with a neat round basement near the hall used for open mic. The pop culture room has great collection of music, even Opera. And a whole wall of comics!

w. liang

Gorgeous constrcution.

Ziomara Gil

a little piece of heaven for book worms. Be warned, you will find homeless individuals in private study spaces.

Mark B

My favourite buildings in Chicago. Built surprisingly in 1988, free entrance, and open from 8.30 to late. Looks like a 1930’s Art Deco style architecture. The Library named after first African American to be Chicago’s mayor in 1983, died in office in 1987. A Conservatory ‘ winter garden at the top of the building, with beautiful murals in the hallway. The childrens library has different areas for challenged learners. Halls in foyer and stairs areas with quotes on walls by Harold Washington speeches, and writers like Kafka.

Jordan Alcantar

I love going to the library, and this is one of my favorite ones. MY favorite part is the U-Media section. I can feel at home with other teens. The only thing I don't like is the service. I don't always get friendly people,but it's not a huge problem. I love the programs and author signings.

Danielle Sumita

Excellent facilities, access to a huge collection, a staff that goes above and beyond.

Philip Moore

Great library, the best in Chicago. It really has something for everyone.

K-12 Portfolio

I's a very nice library but there are very little power outlets. A lot of of the study areas are underutilized because there are no power outlets near the tables.

Betsy Thompson

This is a beautiful library with something for everyone. Obviously the books rule, but the meeting & studying spaces, as well as the special exhibits, are worth the trip. The only downside can be the smell, since it's a homeless haven. I've gotten in a few elevators after a very ripe smellin' person and it's not ideal, but it shouldn't distract you from using the all of the FREE resources this great library has to offer.

Nikhil Sharma

Fantastic library in the middle of the city with a wide array of books. Easily accessible from the red and brown lines. Expansive collection of hundreds upon hundreds of books spanning multiple floors. If you love reading, this place is paradise.

Justin Baum

I went to the library for my first time several years ago. I found it amazing! Chicago is very lucky to have such a great treasure.

Purple Passion1

The staff there is very helpful.

CHARLES MORAN

Always a open Computer and tons of good books.

Emma Langham

Make your way up to the top floor to explore the beautiful winter garden.

Joao Cesar Escossia

This is one of my favorite modern library designs as it takes new construction techniques and applies them to neoclassical building styles. The result is a vintage look with a modern twist. The red brick base perfectly balances the glass rooftop adorned with seven massive aluminum adornments. Best of all, the designers took their inspiration from other famous Chicago buildings, ensuring the whole structure fits in perfectly with its surroundings.

Keri Lee

This is a beautiful library in both content and architecture. As a library card carrying bookworm this place gave me goosebumps. When I make the move to Chicago I'll probably spend more time here than at home.

Sydney Williams

This library is a MASSIVE wealth of knowledge that is very helpful with any sort of research project, like mine on bat anatomy. While the sheer number of books on each floor was a bit overwhelming, the staff were more than willing to help locate what books I needed in a very short period of time.

Brooke Hayes

Great library. Fun kids section.

Shafiq Usta

Amazingly silent and pleasant environment. Someone in love with inner peace would find this place calming.

Thomas Besore

We love this place! Check out the top floor atrium area which is bursting with light even on the cloudiest days! There's a ton of artwork throughout the library and lots of nooks and crannies to get lost in. You could spend a whole day getting to know this place.

Peter Bock

Massive library perfect for reading, getting work done, doing puzzles, exploring, or warming up from the cold. Visit the lobby on the top floor for Cultural Center-esque vibes.

Patrick Möller

I stay in the HI-Hostel close by and when there was nothing to do, due the the cold weather, i really enjoyed spending my time in here. You can look up newspapers from the 30s on microfilm, how awesome is that ?! Nice architecture by the way. Security is around and they check your bags! Staff was very polite.

Nigel Yin

The dumbest policies ever. How do you charge people to get a library card if you're paying thousands of dollars in property taxes to fund it??? And then when you present cash, they can't make change... after being told by another staff member that they can make change. ONLY A GOVERNMENT INSTITUTION CAN BE THIS STUPID. Thanks for nothing.

Alistar Lavonia

This is a massive building of books. I love this place. It has all the books I need and the children’s section is very nice. It has a quiet environment.

Mr XP

What a magnificent library for people craving for knowledge and peace of mind!

İpek Er

This amazing, beautiful library is worth comming everyday. The 2nd floor kids section is great. There is a section for puzzle and board game lovers. I use the 6th floor study rooms that can be booked online (free of charge) very easily or on thr spot. You can only book for 2 hours max but it is worth it. I also like to wonder within the bookshelves and look at different books. The staff are very friendly and helpful. It's like a shrine:you get in and load yourself with information!! Even if you are passing around go check it out. The architecture and interior design is also very nice. Last tip: I love the restrooms because they are very clean. For families with small children, this may be the most hygenic public restroom.

Fergie Leung

A stunning place to study

Elliott Cook

The most comprehensive library in Chicago, including new and popular titles. Easy to navigate, check out, return, pay fines (oops), and any other logistics online or with friendly staff. Reachable by all 'L' trains and a few major bus routes, e.g. 147. Plenty of study/work space with access to power outlets.

James Werner

I can lose myself for hours. Services are a breeze. Staff are knowledgeable, helpful, and courteous. Online account is easy to set up, use, and has great services.

Migdalia Jimenez

This has everything you want in a library and the building itself is fantastic. Located in the middle of the South Loop, its is definitely a place to visit when you're in town, or to come by whenever you're downtown. Don't miss the Winter Garden on the top floor! It is breathtakingly beautiful and serene.

Bryce Jahner

It's beautiful and historic, but not the most interesting place to be inside. I do like the many places to study and read, though.

Ildefonso Mozas

Kids zone is amazing. Funny activities

Joojoo Bears

Pretty massive building that has more than just books as a library. There are old and new paintings throughout the building to checkout. The massive building and its design outside really catches your eye. The inside not quite as open space as you might think. There are no grand stairway or grand hall as you enter but escalators up and down so go check it out!

Danielle Graziana

love this one. stuff is so nice. selection of books are crazy amazing. my get away from busy mind and city energy. quite and nice

Naturally Exquisite

The is a very Beautiful well kept ,well ran Library. Impressive.

Stella SoFancy

Large library with a wide selection of books and resources. I had trouble scanning a book at one of the machines. A friendly staff member was able to help me check out 2 books. Thank you!! I will be back again.

Maxine Rivera

Been at this library couple times now only for getting on the computers and just passing time doing things so I don't know much about the other parts of the library. The library structure is very nice and its conveniently located near buses and the L stops for those who get around by public transportation

Chris Pimlott

I love libraries, and Harold Washington is the best in the city; no wonder, it's the central branch of Chicago Public Library. So aside from a huge lending collection of books, you'll find things like historical reference collections, piano practice rooms, YOUmedia youth library and the new Innovations Lab. Great to see Chicago Public Library is not standing still but instead pioneering a new role for libraries in the 21st century.

Carol Casual

Very beautiful library. Very quiet too! And you can always play puzzles. There's many resources, too.

Flor B

Beautiful library, great staff and good location!

Chris Krolczyk

Top notch circulating and reference book collections, and the computers are a lot more functional than most branch libraries. Downside: toilets are always a mess, and the number of loud or even violent patrons getting thrown out of the computer section by armed security guards gets disturbing after a while.

Rakisha Wilks

I love the winter room, but make sure to bundle up in the colder months and charge your electronics. This area had like 1 outlet. So when I need a charge, I go elsewhere in the library. But I just love this place overall. And the person that it's named after, makes it that much more special and inviting.

Jason Harbison

One of the best City Libraries I have visited in the Country. If you have time, go to the top floor and relax in the beautiful atrium or take in the exhibits they have. Also pay attention to the list of speakers they have on a monthly basis.

Dawn Sult-Williams

This library is amazing. Beautiful. Quiet... all TEN floors!! Wonderful resources and events.

Mohammad H.

A convenient place to study, due to the fact that there are so many floors, which in turn allows you to find a secluded area.

ae phinyar

Large library with wonderful architecture.

nuo yan

Beautiful 9th/10th floor. It's a must see! And it's free! Take a book or take a friend and spend some time up there. Especially on a raining day, it's simply splendid.

Yazmin Uriostegui

I went today to get a pass to Brookfield zoo. The website said the pass was available at this location. The old lady said it was not. This is the first time I am denied a pass when it clearly says on the website that it's available. After that, I asked her for the Art Institute pass that their white board showed it was available. She then, without looking for the pass, erased the check mark from the Art Institute and from the Adler Planetarium( just in case I asked for it) and told me they were not available. I felt terrible. She didn't want to give a pass. I don't know if she denied me a kids passport because of my appearance. I was never rude to her, I don't know why she was rude to me!!

Dave Smiley

Coolest and most underrated site in Chicago to visit!

scarlett baker

One of the best libraries in the city! Clean, orderly, and bright. The employees are pleasant and helpful. I come here sometimes just to chill and relax. Make sure you stop by to check it out!

Mulin Cheng

Great place for kids on the second floor with quiet playground

Tomas Quiros

Beautifull architecture

Christina Smith

Amazingly beautiful library. The art on display is worth stopping in for even if you are not a local. I was surprised by how small their makerspace is and would love to see that area expanded.

A Meister

This library is quite amazing. Its workers are nice enough to ask what you are looking for, and they are so hard working. It has many floors that serve different purposes. Its very spacious with many open tables and is a great space to do some work. Its a quiet environment that is needed in a busy downtown setting. Perfect.

Billal Kellou

I love this place. Delight your mind with knowledge !!

Stanley Chiu

The biggest library in Chicago. You will always be able to find the book that you need there. Enjoy!

Phil

I love this place. It's so big and lots of stuff to do.

stiv k

Nice library... VERY humongous.

Beth Lynn Eicher

This extremely large library in the downtown area is a must visit. It is far more than just books. They tend to have book signings there which are free. To get a card, bring proof of residence. I don't have an IL driver's license so I brought my check book as proof.

Juniper Miles

I don't know why this library let's bums in here to hang out. This library use to be an enjoyable place to come and study. It has turned into a shelter for homeless instead.

Emilie Messavussu

A beautiful place to be as time flies by.. It's like a sancutary and the open wide space, yet closed off... It calls to you.

Tara

Be Careful I had a man try and corner me on the 8th floor in an isolated section of shelves.

Scott A Lagger

Very impressed by this grand historic library. Great selections. Quiet places to read and work. Love the lobby!

Loujaina Abdel Wahed

Very nice place to get work done... U can bring drinks but not food... The bathrooms are very clean... The only problem is that some people come to sleep there and snoar!

Danny Williams

This library has multiple stories and and endless amount of periodicals and resources that will help you with anything. Each story has a different genre of books, but there's also a quick stop on the first floor if you need to get a common book quickly. No need to spend a lot of time here, but you can get lost for DAYS.

Heather Garrity

Such a great library. Filled with so many books and resources including computers and printers. There are dozens of different places to sit so it never feels crowded. The Winter Garden on the 9th floor is beautiful.

Spencer Wade

Love this place very large library in an old beautiful building. Everything is extremely organized in this place, the markings are clear. Multiple levels to find different books, 7 I believe. The staff is extremely helpful. They have computers you can use for free to when the are available, great place for people who don't have a computer. While downtown you need to check this place even if you just walk through.

Janice Temple

I love this library. It is to date the largest library in the United States. It was commissioned by Richard Daley, the son in honor of the late Mayor Harold Washington who died in office. Harold Washington was the first African American Mayor of the city of Chicago. There is a gallery on the top floor of the library preserving his legacy.

Adrianne Brown

Great place excellent service. In and out fast. Love the self-check. always can find a great book.

Alisha Walker H

I haven’t been to this library since I was 12. Moved out of state. Paid a visit recently and I must say it’s changed a lot. They remodeled the whole place and I feel like they should’ve kept a lot of features like the beautiful columns and ceilings. It feels modern and bland now. It’s cute and there’s a lot of kids activities but I miss the old charm and gold this place used to have. It was so beautiful back then.

andre moc

Tuesday January 3 time 7:29 pm on the 2nd floor, there is writing on the wall that reads "What journey of mind and spirit are there for the taking with a library card." (David Mccullaoug) A women is acting drunk, unpleasant, and disruptive. A man, who she was targeting threw his gloves on the bench and held up his hands. He looked like he had homicidal tendencys due to the verbal abuse.

Iliya Petrow

I would come here plenty of times while studying at Depaul University right across the street. This is a really cool place to explore and just walk around. It’s also a very good community center. There are several levels and it’s easy to get lost but the signs point you to where you need to go. My favorite part about this place is the winter garden room on the top floor. It’s one of the best places to eat your lunch or even study or read a book. The architecture on the outside is pretty well known and is a staple in Chicago. The security guards are also very kind and do a good job answering your questions.

Roy Adams

The children's library is very good. That also have a maker space with friendly members

Iris Lazarus

Beautiful architecture!

Percy Byner

Historically large yet magnificently tranquil. High recommendation from me.

Jason Cadell

When in the Loop and looking for a book as a Chicago resident be sure to stop at the Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago Public Library, 400 S State St, Chicago 60606. You'll be pleasantly surprised by the impressive collection and staff. The architecture of the library is absolutely top notch well worth your browsing hours.

Clark Broel

It my favorite branch!

Greg Hodges

simply massive. anything else more important?

Katherine Doffing

Amazing architecture, beautiful garden at the top. Seriously, 8 stories of books, what more could you ask for. I was in literature heaven! Worth the visit. Only downside, several people using tables to sleep, but not a terribly huge distraction.

Maria Skoulidas

Quiet, clean, and friendly atmosphere. The reference desk was of great assistance. The environment is perfect for studying and they never run out of resources!

Ube Mascarenas

Fabulous teen center filled with wonderful activities such as computers and video games for the kids. There's also a huge selection of teen books full of adventure and heartbreak covering the wide experiences of a teenagers life. I always enjoy chilling here with my friends.

Brown Smear

best library ever!!!!! this library is totally worth checking out. the top floor is really nice to hangout at. they have like every book ever :)