Chicago Public Library (CPL) today announced the return of Summer at CPL, its annual citywide celebration of reading, learning and creativity. From June 21 through August 3, all 81 library locations will offer more than 2,000 free events and activities for children, teens and adults. The season kicks off Saturday, June 21, with nature-themed celebrations at CPL’s three regional libraries—Legler, Woodson and Sulzer—each hosting a full day of performances and hands-on activities for families from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This year’s theme, Growing Minds, Going Green, invites Chicagoans to explore the natural world through curated booklists, STEM and sustainability programs and community-based experiences. Last summer, Summer at CPL served more than 445,000 participants. In a survey, 91% of parents agreed their child read and learned more over the summer because of the program.
“Summer at CPL is how we bring the city together—through reading, play, exploration and access,” said Library Commissioner Chris Brown. “From early learners to lifelong learners, we’re creating experiences that grow imagination and build community all summer long.”
What’s New in 2025: Expanded Programming for Adults
This year, adults are invited to take part like never before. A new Adult Program Guide and Log is available at all branches. Participants who complete six out of ten featured activities will earn a limited-edition CPL baseball cap. Adults can also find reading recommendations in-branch and online.
CPL’s first-ever Go Green Fair will be held at Harold Washington Library Center on June 25, featuring an eco-volunteer and job fair, live music, craft stations and more. Throughout the summer, adult programs will explore urban wildlife, gardening, sustainability and environmental justice.
For Children: Reading, Discovery and Art
Children ages 0–13 can sign up at any location to receive a printed Summer Activity Guide, filled with nature-based learning prompts and a Free Family Pass to the Art Institute of Chicago. Kids who read at least 20 minutes a day for 25 days will earn a limited-edition Summer at CPL t-shirt. They can also share what they’re reading with staff to be entered into prize drawings. Live animal visits, musical performances, art workshops and storytelling are just some of the in-branch programs available.
The Summer Learning activity unlocks a season of exploration including an Art Institute-designed artmaking activity and a Free Family Pass to visit the museum which allows all Chicago kids and teens under 18 along with up to four accompanying adults. The Free Family Pass also includes admission to the museum's summer French Impressionism exhibition and is valid until the end of the year.
For Teens: Create, Explore and Win
Teens can take part by completing a “Pick 4” postcard of activities and redeeming it with their local Teen Librarian for a prize. This year’s lineup includes everything from resin crafts and beaded suncatchers to nature journals, games and partner-led workshops. Teens are also welcome to attend field trips to cultural institutions like the Lincoln Park Zoo, Dan Ryan Woods, and the Art Institute-ask a librarian for more details.
Sustainability Initiatives and City Partnerships
In partnership with the Department of Streets and Sanitation, composting stations will be available at select branches this summer, helping patrons take part in sustainable practices. In collaboration with the Department of Environment, the South Chicago and Humboldt Park branches will debut rooftop solar panel installations. Public workshops on clean energy and solar access will be announced later this summer.
Get Involved
All Summer at CPL programs are free and open to the public. Visit your local branch or explore the full lineup at chipublib.org/summer.