Chicago

Arrived in Chicago this afternoon. Members of the group spent the late afternoon at the Art Gallery. They have an amazing collection.

Tomorrow we will visit the Central Library in Chicago.


Visit to the Chicago Central Library - located in the South Loop area. (Chicago has a population
of 3 million)

The design we see today was the result of a design competition. The building is solid and majestic in design, Adorning the exterior roof is magnificent large gargoyle style art work. Upon entering the building it seems quite unbelievable that the structure is only 20 years old. Classical in design and with the extensive use of granite throughout the building, it would be easy to believe that the building had existed for many centuries.

The construction of this imposing building in a challenged neighbourhood saw a positive major transformation of the area. This building anchored and turned around the neighbourhood. At a cost of over $144,000,00 million the Council made a significant investment in providing a world class facility. 2 million of the budget was expended on the acquisition of public art. This has been one significant learning for tour group participants.

Some of art works include a large mosaci telling the story of the Mayor of Chicago.

SOme significant collections at the library include;

a large Civil War collection

President Grants saddle and numerous artworks and sculptures placed throughtout the building.


There is a popular borrowing collection - this is where all holds are collected. Placed with name down (privacy). In this area a large audio visual collection is housed here.

Located at the Central Library is the YouMedia centre. This area is only accessible for teens 13-19 years). Adults can not use this area. This area includes lots of couches and digital media. There is also a professional sound studio. In this area alone there are 150 laptops for teens to use. This is a gathering space for the teens of the City. Mentors come from the University to teach digital media type classes. Blogs etc created by the users of the You Media area are regulated by staff. Digital cameras are available for the teens to check in and out. There is an emphasis on user generated content.

DUring the Global Financial Crisis circulation stats have risen by 60%

There are 70 branches across the City. There are 1500 staff across the library service and 500 at the Central Branch.

LMS use is CarlTLS

Security is prevalent through out the Library. Anyone caught attempting to steal "City" property is handcuffed and taken away by Police.

There is a beautiful central reading garden area that is now rented for function use.


SOme other interesting facts.

No home delivery service
No book mobiles
Looking at vending machines
Large e-book collection
Revenue $121 million, including $3 million in fines and fees.
Large E-Book collection
300 different community languages
Uses PC reservations to manage all computer bookings.


Expenditure $62 million (staff)
17.8 million on materials
Large ESL collection

Most procurement is done centrally - branches do have discretionary funds to meeting changing needs quickly. Most materials are received shelf ready.