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.
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CPS Student? You’re already a member.
Here’s how to gain access:
- In person at any of the 81 Chicago Public Library locations. Just ask a librarian.
- In your classroom at school. Talk to your teacher!
- 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
Kids, Celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day
Indigenous Peoples' Day comes once a year, but you can celebrate any time with these great reads!
Polish Heritage Month Books for Teens: 2023
Enjoy these teen books that celebrate Polish history and culture.
Creepy Tales and Strong Heroes: Horror Books for Teens
In anticipation of the All These Sunken Souls: A Black Horror Anthology, Cordiah shares similar creepy tales with Black main characters.
Books for Fans of Aristotle and Dante
Librarian Emily recommends teen books for fans of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe.
Kids Staff Picks (October 2023)
Kids and parents, check out our latest picks for good reading.
New in Kids Books: October 2023
Like to stay on trend? Here are the kids books we are most excited to read this month.
Polish American Heritage Month for Kids: 2023
Books to help you celebrate Polish American history, culture and creators this month and year-round.
National Book Award Longlist: Young People's Literature
Check out the finalists for the 2023 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature. The winner will be announced on November 15th.
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.