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

CPL’s Most Popular Books of 2025

What books were most in demand with Chicagoans in 2025? Check out the lists of the most popular titles for adults, teens and kids.

Teen Staff Picks (January 2026)

Check out our latest staff favorites for teen reading.

In Memoriam: Writers Who Left Us In 2025

Stephen lists writers who died in the year 2025, linking to their books in our catalog.

Sci-Fi & Gameplay: Top Picks

Cordiah shares her picks for sci-fi books that could be video games.

CPL’s Most Popular Books of 2025

What books were most in demand with Chicagoans in 2025? Check out the lists of the most popular titles for adults, teens and kids.

Picking the 2026 Mock Newbery and Caldecott Awards

Find out which titles CPL librarians selected for our mock awards!

In Memoriam: Writers Who Left Us In 2025

Stephen lists writers who died in the year 2025, linking to their books in our catalog.

New in Kids Books: January 2026

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

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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