The Harold Washington Library Center is the Chicago Public Library’s main branch, at 400 S State St in the South Loop. The building fills a city block, and its public spaces hold more than books: look for art across the floors, exhibits and areas for children and teens. On the ninth floor, the Winter Garden pairs a glass roof with greenery and a quiet place to sit or read. You can also see memorabilia about Harold Washington, Chicago’s first African-American mayor, and find free workshops at the library’s Maker Lab.
A central library open to the city
The Harold Washington Library Center is the main branch of the Chicago Public Library system. Its address is 400 S State St, and the building occupies an entire city block. It serves as a working library and a place for community events, exhibitions and study.
The center was dedicated in 1991 in honor of Harold Washington, Chicago’s first African-American mayor. Its large collection sits alongside spaces for children and teens, meeting rooms and areas for individual or group study. Visitors can explore the public areas without making a book visit their main purpose.
The Winter Garden and exhibits
Head to the ninth floor for the Winter Garden, a sitting area beneath a glass roof. Its greenery and natural light give the top-floor space a quieter feel than the library’s study and event areas. It is a place to pause with a book or take in the architecture.
The ninth floor also has exhibit spaces and a small museum with memorabilia related to Harold Washington. Art appears throughout the building, including paintings, installations and works displayed in halls and reading rooms. Exhibitions change, so the specific displays to see depend on what is on view during your visit.
Children’s spaces and the Maker Lab
The Thomas Hughes Children’s Room hosts story times and workshops. The library also has distinct spaces for children and teens, with hands-on activities for younger visitors. Check the library’s program information if you want to plan around an event.
The Maker Lab hosts free workshops, and library cardholders can use its 3D printers during open lab hours. The center also has study areas ranging from individual tables to group rooms, some of which can be reserved. Community puzzles are among the informal activities found in the building.
Photography and practical details
The Winter Garden’s glass roof and greenery make it a natural-light setting for indoor photography. Professional photography requires a permit, so arrange one beforehand. Drones are not allowed inside.
The library’s role as a public workspace shapes the visit: people come to read, study and use its services as well as to see the building. Keep the atmosphere in mind when exploring shared areas or taking photographs. The library also hosts events, and its spaces can be used for gatherings.
FAQ
Is the Harold Washington Library Center free to visit?
Yes. The library is free to enter, and its public areas include the Winter Garden and exhibit spaces.
What is on the ninth floor?
The ninth floor has the Winter Garden, exhibit spaces and a small museum with memorabilia related to Harold Washington.
Do you need a permit for photography?
Professional photography requires a permit. Drones are not allowed inside.
Can visitors use the Maker Lab’s 3D printers?
Library cardholders can use the 3D printers during open lab hours. The Maker Lab also hosts free workshops.
