About CPL
In 2005, the Library, in partnership with the Chicago Public Library Foundation, embarked on its second strategic plan. Chicago Public Library 2010 reaffirmed the Library’s mission statement and sets forth priorities to continue to enhance its current strengths while investing in new areas of opportunity.
In 2007, the Chicago Public Library provided 3.6 million free computer sessions on nearly 2,000 public access computers. Its website received over 25 million hits per month with an average user time of 30 minutes. While embracing the possibilities of online resources, the Chicago Public Library welcomed readers in greater numbers than ever as circulation of library materials and program participation increased.
From its first site in an abandoned water tank to its ever-changing virtual location, chicagopubliclibrary.org, the Library has grown with the city. Although some of the resources available to Library patrons have changed, the goal of the Chicago Public Library remains the same: to inform, educate, delight, entertain and inspire all Chicagoans. Today the Chicago Public Library, through CPL 2010, looks to the future and continues to meet the challenge of providing free and equal access to library services for all.