Library for the People

Chicago Public Library: Library for the People•beta.prx.org

Chicago Public Library is turning 150 and we have stories to tell. This six-episode limited series takes us on a journey – from building a library after the Great Chicago Fire to reimagining what libraries could be. Along the way, we will meet different Library People: librarians, patrons, authors, and so much more. Each episode will bring a mix of voices and stories found in Chicago’s 80+ branches that make Chicago Public Library a city treasure and a leader in the space.

Join us as we go behind the scenes, get an insider’s view of how libraries work and come away with a renewed appreciation for why they matter more than ever.

Last refreshed: August 17th, 2025 at 11:52 AM ⓘ

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Episodes

Ep. 6: The Future of Libraries

The Chicago Public Library has undergone a remarkable rise since its inception a century and a half ago. In recent years, the library has become threatened by those looking to undermine its mission of intellectual freedom and free speech. How will it continue to champion those core values as a library while also looking toward growth by implementing new digital technologies such as interactive spaces and digital technology? In this final episode, we analyze how the past can inform a brighter fut...

Jul 25, 2023•42 min•Ep. 6

Ep. 5: Accelerators of Social Impact

Libraries are a form of social infrastructure, meaning they are places that shape people’s interaction with one another. From the YOUmedia space where Chicago-based artist Chance the Rapper got his start, to the creative workshops at the Sulzer Regional Library where the Zine Club gathers – there’s a social network for everyone at the library. In addition to creating robust connections between like-minded individuals, these social networks provide resources for those looking to further their car...

Jul 18, 2023•38 min•Ep. 5

Ep. 4: How do you Design a Public Library for the 21st Century?

Libraries are some of the last remaining public spaces in a city, where any resident has the ability to access resources without restrictions. As an institution integral to the community, it’s important that the physical space is conducive to effectively connecting patrons with the resources they need. In this episode, we reimagine the physical form of libraries beyond the recreation of generic prototypes. We explore how catering the library’s design to the patrons’ specific needs can actually b...

Jul 11, 2023•42 min•Ep. 4

Ep. 3: Of Book Bans and Book Sanctuaries

Chicago Public Library has declared itself a sanctuary for endangered stories, establishing book sanctuaries across 77 neighborhoods and 81 library branches. The book sanctuaries aim to expand access to books that have been banned or challenged. In doing so, libraries have found themselves at the front lines of the debate around free speech. In this episode, we learn about how the Library's current decision to preserve intellectual freedoms connects back to a decades-long history of championing ...

Jun 27, 2023•44 min•Ep. 3

Ep. 2: The Library as the Soul of the Community

Throughout history, libraries have been vibrant community spaces in a city as cultural hubs for rising Black artists and writers during the Black Renaissance. We explore the career of Vivian G. Harsh, Chicago Public Library’s first Black librarian, who made the Hall Branch in the Bronzeville neighborhood a key community center. We also explore the impact of Charlemae Hill Rollins, who played a critical role in changing Black representation in children’s literature. Finally, we dive deep into why...

Jun 20, 2023•42 min•Ep. 2

Ep. 1: From the Great Chicago Fire Rises a Public Library

The Great Chicago Fire in 1871 made a permanent impact on the city in a multitude of ways. One unforeseen outcome of the destruction was donations of books by British citizens, leading to the beginning of the Chicago Public Library’s 150 years long journey. With the help of modern historian and lifelong library fan Shermann “Dilla” Thomas, we’ll explore the important historical events that were crucial to shape the library from a dozen books on the shelves to the robust, modern library system we...

Jun 20, 2023•38 min•Ep. 1

Library For The People - Igniting Minds, Transforming Communities: Chicago Public Library's 150-Year Journey

Delve into the captivating history of the Chicago Public Library as it celebrates its remarkable 150-year milestone. In this thought-provoking and immersive six-episode limited series, host Alison Cuddy takes listeners on an extraordinary journey, from the library's inception after the devastating Great Chicago Fire to its innovative role in shaping the future of libraries. Join us as we meet the extraordinary individuals, from librarians to patrons and authors, who have contributed to making Ch...

Jun 15, 2023•4 min

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