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
Teen Reads: Building Connection and Literacy Together
Enjoy literacy, connections, free snacks, journals, and books at participating branches.
Teen Staff Picks (July 2024)
Check out our latest staff favorites for teen reading.
Pride In Your Fashion: Teen Books for Queer Radical Fair
Our annual Queer Radical Fair is a celebration of Pride, self-expression, and fashion. Here are some books to get you in the spirit.
Teen Summer Vacation Reads
To kick off the summer, Cordiah shares her picks of the most relaxing and fiery summer-vacation reads.
Welcome to the Children's Section: Board Books
Find some amazing books for the youngest kids! These durable books are sure to be a hit with babies and toddlers.
Quiz: How Well Do You Know Picture Books About Crayons?
Take this quiz to test your knowledge about books about crayons--with some bonus crayon trivia!
Black Boy Literacy Project: Great Books
89 stories and informational books about Black men and boys recommended for kids in first through third grade.
Back-to-School Wellness
If you have lots of feelings about going back to school, that's okay! Check out one of these books for kids who might feel just like you.
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.