81 Branches. One Club. Unlimited Resources.

For the first time ever, Chicago Public School students have direct and instant access to the resources of Chicago Public Library.

The 81 Club puts the power of the 81 Chicago Public Library branches into the hands of students directly. It’s our mission to encourage and celebrate the creative and ambitious thinking of young Chicagoans by championing their curiosity.

 

CPS Student? You’re already a member.

Here’s how to gain access:

  1. In person at any of the 81 Chicago Public Library locations. Just ask a librarian.
  2. In your classroom at school. Talk to your teacher!
  3. Through the Sora app. Find it on your school’s hub.

Ready to Get Started?

Illinois State Book Award Nominees

Lincoln Award Nominees 2023-2024

The Illinois Readers' Choice Award selected by teens ages 14-18.

Monarch Book Award Nominees 2023 -2024

The Illinois Readers' Choice Award selected by kids ages 5-8. For more information, visit aisled.org/monarch

Bluestem State Book Award Nominees 2023-2024

The Illinois Readers' Choice Award selected by kids ages 8-11. For more information visit aisled.org/bluestem

Rebecca Caudill Award Nominees 2023-2024

The Illinois Readers' Choice Award selected by kids ages 9-14. For more information, visit rebeccacaudill.org

Teen Best Reads 2025

After reading over two hundred books this year, our Teen Best Reads interns are excited to share their curated 2025 list.

Teen Staff Picks (December 2025)

Check out our latest staff favorites for teen reading.

Chilling Teen Mysteries

Discover a teen mystery perfect for the cold weather season.

Cozy Season: Holiday Books and Films

In celebration of holiday season, Cordiah shares her top picks of holiday books.

A Story a Night: Hanukkah Reads for Kids

8 Hanukkah stories you'll love a-latke, plus one to get you started.

Kids Staff Picks (December 2025)

Kids and parents, check out our latest picks for good reading.

New in Kids Books: December 2025

Like to stay on trend? Here are the kids books we are most excited to read this month.

Brave Choices: Anti-Bullying Books for Kids

25 books about making the brave choice to stand up for yourself and for others, even when that means walking away.

Database Highlights

Using CPL Databases for Research

Check out Dan's tutorial on Research Topics and Sources.

Focus on: Homework Help

Check out Jaime's guide to using Brainfuse.

Online Databases for Kids

Online Resources for Kids

Authoritative sources of information that are relevant, accurate and available 24/7.

Online Resources for Teens

Research events and concepts, find an online tutor, learn a new language and more with CPL's online resources for teens.
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