Harold Washington Library Center

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Harold Washington Library Center
400 S. State Street, 60605

Hours

  • Mon 09:00 AM-09:00 PM
  • Tue 09:00 AM-09:00 PM
  • Wed 09:00 AM-09:00 PM
  • Thu 09:00 AM-09:00 PM
  • Fri 09:00 AM-05:00 PM
  • Sat 09:00 AM-05:00 PM
  • Sun 01:00 PM-05:00 PM

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Chicago Public Library Foundation
It's Not What You Think

Harold Washington Library Center

Read, Learn, Discover

Second Floor


THE CHILDREN'S LIBRARY CENTER

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The Children's Library is named after Thomas Hughes, a member of the British Parliament and author of Tom Brown's School Days. Shocked by the devastation of the Chicago Fire of 1871, Thomas Hughes organized a campaign in England to gather donations of books for Chicago. Almost every living English author made a contribution of his works. This collection of 8,000 volumes formed the beginning of the Chicago Public Library. The Children's Library, with more than 18,000 square feet, houses the largest collection of children's books in Chicago. Serving children through eighth grade, this area offers a warm and inviting place to explore for children and their families. Two arched doorways open into a program room which seats groups of up to 55 children. The Thomas Hughes Children's Library sponsors free programs for children throughout the year.