I was disappointed on my visit to the Harold Washington Library this morning. The bound periodicals, whch used to be on the third floor, were moved to the fifth, and it looked to me like there were fewer shelves of them than before. The librarian told me that they didn't have bound volumes of the New Republic anymore. It appears the Washington Library has gotten rid of many bound periodicals for, I assume, the same reason other libraries have: to free up space. Then I went to use the microfim machine to make copies of some articles I came to look for. Unfortunately, they have a new, computerized system that I found difficult to use. After I made 5 copies, it froze up, and the librarian said she'd set me up on another machine. In the meantime, I had to go down two floors to retrieve my copies on the third floor. Once there, I saw the copies were very light and, what's worse, the machine had copied the wrong pages. In the old days, you could make copies on the microfilm machines on the third floor and see right away if there was a quality problem. Now, you have to go down two floors to find that out. What kind of awful system is this? I told the librarian I wasn't going to try again and that I would find another library to work in. I'll say that the two library staffers I spoke with were very nice and helpful. But I just hate the changes I saw this morning, so (after a couple of decades of patronage) I don't plan to go back.

The black security are extremely aggressive towards other black patrons. I’ve been harassed on multiple occasions, one instance I was reading “slaughterhouse five” at a table 20 minutes before closing. A security told me I had 20 minutes left I proceeded to give him a thumbs up when I heard him yell “LOOK AT ME WHEN IM TALKING” I told him please get away from me I’m just trying to read books. He replied “why don’t you check it out why do you come to the library to read”. I was baffled by such idiocy the man really told me why do I come to the library to read. Another security told me smacking her lips “why you always up in here”. I’ve also seen someone get there purse snatched. The victim was chasing after him as the perpetrator was running at a snails pace and still got away. This is coming from another black male when I say this, Harold Washington needs to diversify their security detail hiring more whites and Latinos. The African American guards are very disrespectful, ineffective and racists to young black college students

was walking upstairs and sat for not even two minutes on a chair designed for seating a woman told us we couldn't sit there so i walked outside and sat on the ground because i have anemia and felt like i was gonna pass out. this is a very regular thing and i only need a couple minutes and ill feel fine. she came out and told me again i couldn't sit. i explained i was gonna pass out and only needed a minute because i have anemia. she said "there's cameras you can't sit down" this is a library, not a museum. i'm not messing anything up by sitting for not even two minutes. she said do you want me to call the paramedics because you can't sit. i don't need a big hospital bill when i could just sit for two three minutes and be fine again. so she forced me to leave if i passed out inside would she have still yelled at me for being on the floor? ridiculous i can't go in a library for even five minutes before having to leave because i cant sit for my health. the lady was a security on the second floor.

I visited the Harold Washington Library Center for the first time and I was amazed by the beauty and diversity of this place. The library is a stunning example of postmodern architecture, with a red brick facade, granite columns, glass windows, and ornamental owls on the roof. The library has ten floors of books, magazines, audiovisual materials, special collections, and more. The staff were helpful and knowledgeable, and the facilities were clean and well-equipped. The highlight of my visit was the Winter Garden on the ninth floor, a glass-enclosed atrium that hosts events and programs. The Winter Garden was a peaceful and relaxing oasis in the middle of the busy city. I enjoyed browsing through the exhibits and admiring the plants and sculptures. I would highly recommend the Harold Washington Library Center to anyone who loves books, art, culture, or history. It is a wonderful resource and a tribute to Chicago's former mayor.

This library is huge!! As Chicago Public Library’s main branch, it’s very well-stocked and houses not only books but also media, art installations, galleries and a winter garden on the ninth floor, a youth and young adult community space, and rooms for events and book clubs, etc. throughout the building. I always look around pretty thoroughly on the 1st, 6th and 7th floors whenever I visit because that’s where all of the book genres I’m interested in are located. As a Korean-American, I’m pleasantly surprised by how well-stocked the library is on Korean-language books and books by Korean-American authors. The staff is also always extremely friendly and helpful. This public library is always free and open to the public 7 days a week (check their hours)!

This amazing, beautiful library is worth comming everyday. The 2nd floor kids section is great. There is a section for puzzle and board game lovers. I use the 6th floor study rooms that can be booked online (free of charge) very easily or on thr spot. You can only book for 2 hours max but it is worth it. I also like to wonder within the bookshelves and look at different books. The staff are very friendly and helpful. It's like a shrine:you get in and load yourself with information!! Even if you are passing around go check it out. The architecture and interior design is also very nice. Last tip: I love the restrooms because they are very clean. For families with small children, this may be the most hygenic public restroom.

I want to start off by saying wow. Such a lovely library. When I walked in I was greeted by security, they were very friendly (and gave me directions to the bathroom). I took a self guided tour of the library and wow I was so impressed. They have galleries too by the way. What was the most impressive though was the plants all throughout the library; the plants were FULL OF LIFE AND LOOKED NOURISHED. A first for all of the libraries I’ve seen so far in the U.S. The plants were well taken care of. Finally, my visit ended with talking to a representative behind the desk named Valerie, she was very insightful and I’m very so grateful I got to visit.

let's see. one time I was in their bathroom and at the sink a young, tall, strong man punched me in the eye as hard as he possibly could and I literally flew across the bathroom and ended up in the emergency room thinking I lost my eye. another time I was in their bathroom i went to get the toilet paper & my hand almost struck a needle that someone left behind. other than those things the library is a wonderland. It's so vast with services, books, programs. it's huge and so beautiful. I have had a lot of fun at this library and you probably can learn more here than at Princeton. i love the staff too

I would come here plenty of times while studying at Depaul University right across the street. This is a really cool place to explore and just walk around. It’s also a very good community center. There are several levels and it’s easy to get lost but the signs point you to where you need to go. My favorite part about this place is the winter garden room on the top floor. It’s one of the best places to eat your lunch or even study or read a book. The architecture on the outside is pretty well known and is a staple in Chicago. The security guards are also very kind and do a good job answering your questions.

My favourite buildings in Chicago. Built surprisingly in 1988, free entrance, and open from 8.30 to late. Looks like a 1930’s Art Deco style architecture. The Library named after first African American to be Chicago’s mayor in 1983, died in office in 1987. A Conservatory ‘ winter garden at the top of the building, with beautiful murals in the hallway. The childrens library has different areas for challenged learners. Halls in foyer and stairs areas with quotes on walls by Harold Washington speeches, and writers like Kafka.

Many areas are dated, and low foot traffic. Areas are closed, including main entrances and the Winter Garden, without notice - our family of 5 ran a mile in the rain to get to it before closing. The surprise closed entryway was tough carrying a toddler, and then no one could tell us for sure why the Winter Garden was closed or when it had been closed or when it would be reopened or how we could find out any of the above. Of all the city libraries we visit around the country, this one seems to be very unused and unkempt.

By far one of my favourite libraries in the whole world. It is a very warm and welcoming place where people come to relax and learn or study and is a true representation of the Chicago spirit. Make sure to check out the exhibits located upstairs to learn about it's history and all of the historical events that led to it's creation. Thank you so much to all of the staff for keeping Harold Washingtons vision alive and ensuring that all Chicagoans and tourists have a safe place to roost while in the heart of downtown.

Winter Garden in Harold Washington Library is a hidden gem. If you're looking for a study space or a quiet place away from the hustle and bustle of the city, look no further than the Winter Garden on the ninth floor of the Library. The Winter Garden's glass roof, the architectural highlight of the buildings interior offers gorgeous, abundant and natural light all year round. There are tables to open a book, study, work or relax and no reservations are required.

Very impressive and beautiful architecture of the building. Books are accessible and ordered by topics on 8 floors. Don't miss a visit to the 9th floor with a beautiful winter garden. An ideal place for some quiet reading. There is a special media library for CDs, DVDs and graphic novels the Youlibrary. On the 3rd floor a maker lab with 3D printers, a laser cutter and electronics cutter is open to the public and they oder free classes.

Never been to such a huge library anywhere before. Believed to be the biggest library in Chicago. The place is so well maintained. The building architecture including the interiors are so awesome. Every floor out of the nine floors have books related to various topics. The 9th floor normally hosts events or exhibitions. Every floor has super clean washrooms and an escalator. Entry is free. Would surely recommend this place.

Give yourself at least an hour and explore the library. Fantastic curated displays, thought provoking quotes and a beautiful atrium on the top floor. Pro-Tip: Skip the crowds at Cloud Gate and find a much more manageable size that you can tower over on the 8th floor. 9th floor is worth the time but watch foot wear, heels will echo and people are trying to read and study. Check out the installation: Above and Beyond as well.

Chicago Public Library's Harold Washington Library Center is an oasis from the chaos at all times of the year, but the winter garden on the top floor is an especially cheering source of sunlight during the winter months. Find some respite in this rooftop sanctuary, explore the history of the city in a number of exhibits, or just enjoy a quality library in the heart of an international city. 5/5, would enjoy again.

A good place to learn that it’s pronounced “lie-brair-ee” and not “lie-berry.” Maybe even a better place to walk into the bathroom and find a grown man shaving his face. This place is huge. You could get lost in here. Both in the sense of location and in the sense of reading books. There are 10 floors. The first bathroom is accessible on floor 3. On floor 9 is the winter garden, which is serene and full of light.

I love libraries, and this is worth a trip to see the exterior of the building with the owl cornices. There's also a train stop that will bring you right there. On the 9th floor, there's a beautiful open area with an indoor "garden" and a nice view of the street below. There are trees and a few tables to sit and study or work. The rest of the library was typical, but we went for the special features.

Needed somewhere to work while visiting Chicago and came across this library. I have never seen anything like this that’s open to the public. It’s an amazing library with lots of art and historical artifacts featured around every floor. The wifi worked really well, there were plenty of outlets for use (other than the 9th floor), and it’s overall a great environment for learning and working.

There isn't a public library that compares. Definitely a favorite spot. Every floor is worth a visit. Maybe I'm just sentimental. But I love this library. Great kids area. There is a large floating homeless population in this city so have a heart and be kind. The staff and security are awesome as well. And the memorial to veterans as you go up the first two floor escalators is amazing.

I have come to this library every day for two years and the librarians and security staff are unbelievable. They are patient, thoughtful, skilled, kind, and friendly even when their jobs are really hard. It’s an incredible resource and a jewel in Chicago’s crown. I am endlessly grateful to the staff for all the resources I’m able to safely utilize for free thanks to their hard work.

Beautiful and historic space, came to co-work with a friend. They have rooms available on floors 5-7 for small groups, as well as plenty of tables/pods/cubicles for singles. You can only reserve for 2 hours at a time, 4 hours a week max and the outlets are on the wall or under the table. Top floor is gorgeous event space, I have fond memories of attending things here growing up

Fantastic location, very nice staff! We stumbled onto a Lego Club with special guests from Field Museum, so it was extra fun. Lots of fun play areas in the kids' library, my 7 year old did not want to leave. We love our local branch, but this one is awesome! The designated eating area at the entrance to the kids' section is great, and there are restrooms within. Highly recommend!

This is such an incredible library! The largest public in the US and it is one of the best! The children’s section is amazing and the staff there are extremely helpful! I thought the best part of the library was the top floor! Simply stunning! The glass, and architecture and atmosphere are breathtaking. If you are in the area, do yourself a favor and check it out

I love library wherever I go, the same as this public library. As a remote worker, I can work with power and internet. The free Wi-Fi is great for me, but it seems not easy to find a power plug for my laptop power adapter. Anyway, I can use my laptop for around two hours or so without having problems. A lot seats in the library, I love this part.

Incredibly grand library in the heart of Chicago. 9 total floors with the Winter Garden and a museum featured on the 9th floor. The 8th floor boasts an extensive music library complete with free practice rooms for patrons - many of them have pianos and there is a chamber music room too! Gorgeous place to get away from the busy city and relax.

A massive, beautiful library with many floors of books, computers, and art. It's a great place to duck into for a few minutes if it's super cold outside. If you visit, be sure to check out the top floor, which is just gorgeous. There's also plenty of seating and the top floor is very quiet, so it's a great place to do some reading.

While walking downtown, saw this building that did what good, monumental architecture should do; it drew me in. I needed to learn more about it, approached, and discovered it is the Harold Washington Library. My photos can't do it justice, and there's a winter garden on the ninth floor that was closed for a private event.

This is a gorgeous library, and I do love a good library. I like the pools and fountains on the 1st floor. It was wonderfully under used when I visited and was empty and quiet without being deserted. I liked the ‘above and beyond,’ dog tag installation. I wasn’t expecting it, but it works well where it’s placed.

This is probably my favorite place to visit, while I am in the city. I am a book junkie. I love everything about books, the hardcover, the crinkly paper, the reading page to page. This library is beautiful, tons of marble and gorgeous architecture. Many floors to enjoy.

I envy Chicagoans having such a nice library where they can study, have fun with puzzles, enjoy lunch or dinner in eating room, talk friends at top-floor winter room. As a tourist, I'm amazed by their fast internet speed - uploading 100+ SLR pictures around 1 minute.

The building it's truly impressive and massive, I went one and had to just get to the last floor to see the winter garden that is so beautiful, i couldn't check all the book selection and I can't wait for come back and spend my days in there. Didn't see creepy people

This is a gorgeous library. I loved the history of CPLs branches exhibit. Every floor is worth a visit and the facilities are wonderful. I found the elevators and escalators made it easy to get around- and I loved the free Narcan box near the exit.

Friendly and helpful staff. Many places to study individual or as a group. Recently discovered the music floor - individual music rooms that you can reserve for up to 1 hour daily. I don't play now - but I would take advantage of it if I did.

Awesome place. Only gripe is the unprofessional security guards that think they have a pass to belittle and talk to visitors any type of way. This is no refection on they're superiors or the library itself. Speaking from personal experience

Librarians are very nice here. Checking out a book is so simple and easy. Some homeless people here are good and enjoy reading very quietly and happily. Though, There are many homeless people here. That makes this library feel a bit unsafe

Absolutely the BEST library in Chicago! They have almost an endless supply of resources and books on every subject. The childrens library within the library is beyond impressive and always surprises me with constant change and development.

Extremely large library but designed smartly. at the main entrance theres a floor level library with all the contemporary changing collection of books you'd find at your small local library. then the 8 floors of a wealth of every category

I stay in the HI-Hostel close by and when there was nothing to do, due the the cold weather, i really enjoyed spending my time in here. You can look up newspapers from the 30s on microfilm, how awesome is that ?! Nice architecture by the

The Library is Big and Spacious....The problem is Creepy Men Mostly Homeless stand in-between the Bookcases and Watch and Stalk you and even Verbally Harass You . Mother Don't let your Son's go into the Men bathroom Alone ,It's Not Safe.

This library is huge. It has 9 floors but I only had the energy to go to 4 of them. My favorite is the business floor as there are many books on a variety of interesting subjects. If you love reading and learning, this place is heaven.

I've lived in Chicago for 30 years and have seen so many of the wonderful things this city has to offer. The Harold Washington Library is one of my top three favorite places in the city. In addition to the tens of thousands of books

Expansive and beautiful library with many different services and materials. It’s a little confusing to get around and I wish it didn’t close so early on the weekends. Still an amazing asset for the city, and very Transit accessible.

The architecture is beautiful. There is a very nice collection of artwork hanging all around. I really enjoyed the Above and Beyond exhibit of hand-stamped dog tags on loan from the National Veterans Art Museum.

Such an incredible space in Chicago. Def worth a free drop in for the art and architecture alone. There were a lot of programming available for locals which is great! Nice to see Indigenous art on their walls!

As a Librarian (in another state), I felt like I had to come here. There are 10 floors here. I loved seeing the garden at the top floor. It looked like a great place to study. There was so much natural light.

One of my favorite hidden gems in the city. The top floor of the Harold Washington Library is an oasis and a wonderful place to read a book or to relax. The best part is that it is free to the public!

Beautiful! 9 stories and more books than I could have ever imagined. Clean and organized. When you reach a new floor there are handy written guides that tell you what books are on that level.

This Library Really is a True Blessing. I'm sorry for someone who was great in how they Helped people to be honored after they're dead. To be Honored while they're alive is better.

Great collection of plays and screenplays for writers and actors. Very peaceful study space on the top floor with interesting exhibits. Also a wonderful children’s area.

Beautiful library. Lots of books. Beautifully laid out. They have a banned book section which makes me happy, and sad that Americans have a banned book list.

The library is a BEAUTIFUL landmark location. I only had a little bit of time to explore, but I'll definitely be taking a trip back next time I'm in Chicago.

Gorgeous library outside and in! Pretty marble keeps each floor quiet and comfortable. So much to explore on each floor and so much learning to be had!

So much to look at not including all the the knowledge stored here in the books, magazines, videos etc. Highly recommend stopping if you're nearby

First time in Chicago, and saw the exterior of this building and loved it. The interior was disappointing comparatively, but still worth a visit.

Beautiful library! Every floor have a theme. At the top there is garden but it was cloaked. From outside too the building is very beautiful!

9 floors library, clean, organized, free Wi-Fi with plenty of places to sit and relax.. Nice architecture and plenty of books and art..

I just love visiting old city libraries. This one was HUGE, with so much space and even had art works, felt like a museum a little bit.

Huge library, friendly staff, lots of space to study and read. A welcoming environment. Fast wifi. Gorgeous architecture. World class.

The winter garden is gorgeous, and the rest of the library is clean with a calm atmosphere. There's plenty of space to get work done.

Iconic public library in Chicago, make sure to add this library to your to-do list. Don’t miss the beautiful view in the 10th floor.

What can I say, by far the best library downtown. 6 floors of books, plenty of places to sit, free Wifi. I love it.

It’s an amazing library! Of course they have lots of books! Also, you need to go the top floor. Super beautiful ❤️

I had been to this library like 4 times before discovering the Winter Garden. Always stop to smell the flowers!!

Bathroom has been ransacked. Security is lovely detail. Very cool I just wish I had more reading experience.

huge public library, with ample places to read, study work and relax. very good maintenance. very impressed!

Beautiful library. Every floor would be worth exploring, particularly the winter gardening on the top floor

A very large library with lots of places to comfortably read a book. An architecturally stunning building.

I had the pleasure of visiting the magnificent Harold Washington Library Center and its 9 floors of books!

This is a nice and quiet place to get some work done. Very big library so there's always a place to sit.

It was nice the largest library in Chicago. The staff was cool, by good transportation and restaurants.

Still the same as I remember from coming here as a kid around year 2000. You have 10 floors of cool.

I love this library and the staff… Thanks everyone. One of the best public libraries in the world.

Such an educational place! So much to choose from! I recommend the topography/map section.

Wonderful place children. Staff is very helpful. So easy to check out books.

Free access Staff is helpful Peaceful environment Beautiful infrastructure

Great library - everything you could need and more

It’s very impressive place and historical values

I haven’t been inside yet, one day I will though