Harold Washington Library Center
A grand postmodern architectural marvel housing vast literary resources and a serene Winter Garden oasis.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Harold Washington Library Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand postmodern architectural marvel housing vast literary resources and a serene Winter Garden oasis.
"A beautiful building with free computers, printers, Wi-Fi, and of course books and digital books."
Free Entry! :ticket:
No library card needed to enter and explore this architectural gem.
Ask for Help :question:
Staff and guards are friendly and happy to guide you around the vast library.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Winter Garden
9th Floor
A serene, sun-drenched oasis with lush greenery, offering a peaceful escape amidst the city bustle.
Children's Section
2nd Floor
An engaging space with a puppet theater, puzzles, and crafts, perfect for young explorers.
Architecture & Art
Throughout the building
Admire the stunning postmodern architecture, including massive leaf and owl ornaments.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, But Be Prepared
Navigating the Grand Space
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry! :ticket:
No library card needed to enter and explore this architectural gem.
Ask for Help :question:
Staff and guards are friendly and happy to guide you around the vast library.
Study Spots :computer:
Great for working or studying, especially the peaceful 9th floor. Free WiFi available.
Music Practice Rooms :musical_note:
Free to reserve for an hour daily, featuring Yamaha upright pianos.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry! :ticket:
No library card needed to enter and explore this architectural gem.
Ask for Help :question:
Staff and guards are friendly and happy to guide you around the vast library.
Study Spots :computer:
Great for working or studying, especially the peaceful 9th floor. Free WiFi available.
Music Practice Rooms :musical_note:
Free to reserve for an hour daily, featuring Yamaha upright pianos.
Rainy Day Escape :umbrella:
A beautiful and free indoor activity for a gloomy Chicago day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Harold Washington Library Center for its stunning postmodern architecture, particularly the serene Winter Garden, and its vast collection of resources. Many appreciate the free entry, friendly staff, and the availability of amenities like free Wi-Fi and computers, making it a great spot for study or a peaceful escape. Some note that as a busy public library, occasional odors or a less-than-ideal environment for quiet, casual reading can occur.
"A beautiful library with 9 floors and that is quite organized with it’s direction signs and organized aisles filled with books. They’ve got open to the public jigsaw puzzles on a floor, computers, and some neat designs/art pieces throughout the floors.
I didn’t come here to read or work/study but just to browse as my Uber ride was taking longer than expected so I most likely missed some stuff but I really liked what I saw nonetheless.
Staff are super friendly so don’t be shy to ask questions. It seems this might not be a library to pick up a random book (except in the children’s section) and sit down for a bit and read but instead maybe to bring your computer and work or study with a couple of friends/solo."
Xoom Too
"This downtown historic Library is beautiful has free computers, and printers and Wi-Fi and a printing museum on the ninth floor and of course books and digital books. Because it’s a public library you will smell some odors bc it’s a huge library w many floors. Elevators help you get to your floor. But no real parking here bc it’s downtown. Metered on Park Chicago app or spot hero or garages."
karina k
"Beautiful building, great place to work. A helpful guard sent me to the help desk, and the lovely staff there recommended working from the ninth floor. Super peaceful, people respect your public space, quiet, free WiFi. Great views. Th unmistakable red brick architecture outside and the inspiring history of the building only add to its charm."
P S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Harold Washington Library Center is located at 400 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605. It's easily accessible via public transportation, with numerous CTA 'L' train lines and bus routes stopping nearby. Parking downtown can be challenging and expensive; consider using apps like SpotHero or metered street parking if driving.
Direct parking at the library is limited. Your best options are metered street parking (use the Park Chicago app) or nearby parking garages. Many visitors opt for public transit due to downtown Chicago's parking situation.
The library is a major hub. The CTA Red, Orange, Green, Pink, and Brown lines all have stops within a few blocks. Numerous bus routes also serve the area. Check the CTA website for the most convenient route from your location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need a library card to enter and explore the Harold Washington Library Center. It's a public building open to everyone.
The library's hours can vary, but it's generally open daily. It's always best to check the official Chicago Public Library website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
No, admission to the Harold Washington Library Center is completely free. It's a public institution offering its resources and spaces at no cost.
While specific study rooms might require booking, the library offers ample public space for working and studying. The 9th floor is often recommended for its peaceful atmosphere.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond books, you can explore the Winter Garden, visit the children's section with its interactive features, use free computers and Wi-Fi, and admire the building's architecture and art. There are also jigsaw puzzles available on one floor.
Yes, the Harold Washington Library Center provides free public computers and Wi-Fi access for visitors.
The 9th floor is highly recommended for its Winter Garden and peaceful study atmosphere. The 2nd floor houses the extensive children's section.
As a major public institution, the library is generally accessible. Elevators are available to reach all floors. It's advisable to contact the library directly for specific accessibility needs.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, especially in public areas like the Winter Garden. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of others and avoid disruptive photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Currently, there are no public cafes or restaurants within the Harold Washington Library Center itself. Visitors are encouraged to explore the many dining options available in the surrounding downtown Chicago area.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume food and drinks in designated areas or outside the library to maintain the cleanliness and preservation of library materials and spaces. Check with staff if unsure.
📸 📸 Photography
The Winter Garden on the 9th floor offers beautiful natural light and greenery. The grand staircases and the exterior architecture, especially the postmodern elements like the leaf and owl ornaments, are also popular photo subjects.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed inside the Harold Washington Library Center. Be respectful of other patrons and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great place for kids to explore, learn, and play in a safe and stimulating environment. Remember that while the library is large, the children's area is designed to be engaging and accessible for young visitors. Beyond the dedicated children's area, the library's sheer size and the Winter Garden can be an adventure in itself. Encourage your children to help navigate using the signs or to spot the unique architectural details. While there are no food facilities inside, the library's central location means plenty of family-friendly dining options are just a short walk away.
📚 Book Lovers & Researchers
Beyond physical books, the library provides extensive digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, and access to academic databases. The availability of free Wi-Fi and public computers further enhances its utility for research and study. Don't hesitate to ask the knowledgeable staff for assistance in locating specific materials or navigating the library's extensive catalog.
✨ Architecture & Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the interplay of light and shadow in the atrium, the lush greenery of the Winter Garden, or the intricate details of the building's design. The library's central location also makes it easy to combine with visits to other architecturally significant sites in downtown Chicago. Remember to be respectful of other patrons while you capture the beauty of this iconic building.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel
The library's interior is as impressive as its exterior. The soaring atrium and the expansive Winter Garden on the 9th floor are particular highlights. This glass-enclosed space is filled with lush plants, offering a tranquil retreat and a beautiful spot for photography or quiet contemplation. The sheer scale of the building, with its nine floors, contributes to its status as one of the largest municipal libraries in the world.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the architecture is designed to be functional, housing an immense collection of books and providing diverse spaces for learning, research, and community engagement. The thoughtful layout and clear signage ensure that navigating this vast space is a manageable experience for all visitors.
More Than Just Books: Resources and Activities
For those seeking unique experiences, the library offers specialized services. Music practice rooms equipped with Yamaha upright pianos are available for free reservation, allowing musicians to hone their skills in a dedicated space.
The children's section is a vibrant hub of activity, featuring a puppet theater, puzzles, and craft opportunities, making it a fantastic destination for families. Community engagement is a key aspect of the library's mission. Throughout the year, they host various events, workshops, and exhibitions. Even a casual visit can reveal interesting art pieces and displays scattered throughout the floors, adding an element of discovery to your exploration.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit