My visit to the Harold Washington Library was a most memorable experience.
Their mission “We welcome and support all people in their enjoyment of reading and pursuit of lifelong learning. Working together, we strive to provide equal access to information, ideas and knowledge through books, programs and other resources.
We believe in the freedom to read, to learn, to discover.”
They are doing great things for their patrons and surrounding communities.
The Chicago Public Library comprised of several different libraries including the Thomas Hughes Children’s Library, who are offering such programs like the “Earth Explorers” for the summer to engage students who are on summer holiday to help them stay out of trouble and provide an interactive space where they can be creative and innovative. Also helps parents in solving the problem of where to leave their children during this period.
The Harold Washington Library Center was most interesting! Built in 1987, cannot forget that year! Its the year my son was born! Uses state-of-the-art technology to provide library services. Housed over 13 million collections to include monographs, rare manuscripts, arts and sound archives.
Exhibitions at the Harold Washington Library focuses on specifics to Chicago : Maps, posters,trade catalogs and manuscripts etc.
Maker space is a trending phenomenon in libraries globally and the maker space laboratory at Harold Washington Library is an exciting space to be in, they are showing people how to use various software for free, sewing sessions, digital design and step-by-step project.
Inclusiveness at Harold Washington Library is reflected through the services provided at the Assistive Technology Center for persons who are challenged in some way or another.
YOUmedia department was a main feature of the tour for me: as it highlighted the use of 3D printers, large TVs, videos, services for teens, recording studio – used by a now famous rapper – “Chance the rappers – who is a past student of the facility.