Immigrant Services
Help for Immigrants, Migrants and Refugees
Citizenship resources are available at all Chicago Public Library locations as well as various organizations throughout the city of Chicago. Ask a librarian for help finding what you need or check out our resource guide below.
Library Resources
Citizenship resources are available at no cost at all Chicago Public Library locations. Ask a librarian for help finding what you need. For job seekers and adult learners, visit the Brainfuse: Adult Learning Center for career resources, study guides and guides on passing the United States citizenship test. Need computer help? Our Digital Navigators can assist with one-on-one technology tutoring sessions.
Get a Library Card
Job Seekers, Get Help with Brainfuse
Use a Computer or Printer at CPL
Get Computer Help from Digital Navigator Technology Tutors
Organizations and Programs
City of Chicago Resources
- Office of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights (IMRR) - Chicago: The Office of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights (IMRR) is part of the City of Chicago’s commitment to inclusion, equity and justice. They work to ensure that all residents—regardless of their immigration status—can have access to city services, protections, and feel a sense of belonging.
- City Key ID Programs | Office of the City Clerk: The Chicago CityKey is an optional, government-issued ID available to Chicago residents. It can be used for valid ID, as a Chicago Public Library card, as a CTA Ventra card and as a prescription drug discount card. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit the applying for your CityKey page from the Office of the City Clerk.
- Immigrant Hub Chicago: Follow the latest news in immigration issues and available support and resources from the Chicago Sun-Times on their Immigrant Resources & News Page.
- Protecting Chicago: Protecting Chicago aims to make available information and resources that allow every resident—regardless of background, immigration status, or neighborhood—to live with safety, dignity and peace of mind.
State of Illinois Resources
- Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR): The Family Support Network & Hotline provided by the ICIRR helps connect immigrant communities in Illinois to a range of support services in collaboration with member organizations.
- Welcoming Centers Illinois: Illinois Welcoming Centers (IWC) is a comprehensive service to help immigrants and refugees by helping to eliminate barriers to accessing state services. Launched in 2007, the IWC now has a variety of centers located throughout the state. View the full list at: IDHS: Illinois Welcoming Center (IWC)
- Illinois Legal Aid Online
- Navigating Deportation: A New Path Individual Chapters - Prison Reentry and Deportation Resources
Nationwide Resources
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): The USCIS offers many resources to assist with gaining citizenship, including:
- Citizenship Resource Center - Learn more about citizenship requirements, find study materials and apply for citizenship all from the Citizenship Resource Center.
- 10 Steps to Naturalization - A step-by-step guide outlining the process of becoming a U.S. citizen.
- The Naturalization Interview and Test - A guide on what to expect during your naturalization interview as well as an overview of the two components on the naturalization test: English and civics.
Books and Media
Skills Classes and Events for Adults
Register for upcoming classes and events for adults at CPL, including practicing English and ESL classes. View all Continuing Education Events on our Event calendar. See upcoming events available in Spanish, Chinese, Korean or Polish.