Chicago Public Library, Obama Presidential Center Branch

Libraries are the beating heart of a strong democratic culture. Here we welcome local residents, scholars, and visitors from around the world to connect, reflect, and act. The Obama Presidential Center has partnered with Chicago Public Library to create a branch that brings inspiration home
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Get Your Obama Presidential Center Library Card 

The Obama Presidential Center Library Branch now offers an exclusive limited edition Chicago Public Library card! Here’s how to get yours: 

For Chicago Residents

  1. Visit the Obama Presidential Center branch during any of our open hours. You will need to fill out an application or you can download (Opens in a new tab) your application and bring it with you to the Library. 

  2. To obtain a card you must present an ID with a current address or recent piece of mail proving residence. 

Non-Chicago Residents

  1. Non-Chicago residents may also obtain a limited edition library card! The card is available at our location with a valid form of ID for a $5 fee.

A close-up, high-angle photograph shows a white library card tucked into the pocket of a dark grey or black textured folder or book cover. The card features bold blue text at the top that reads "PUBLIC LIBRARY". Below the text, colorful abstract book icons in green, orange, red, and dark blue sit in a diagonal row. A bright blue diagonal band stretches across the card with the text "OBAMA PRESIDENTIAL CENTER" next to a white circular logo. To the right, a blue star and the text "CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY" are visible above a blue pattern that looks like a map or grid. In the bottom-left corner, a person's hand with a medium-dark skin tone holds the corner of the paper.

Highlights

Main Reading Room

Step into a world of endless discovery and inspiration in the library's Main Reading Room. Explore our collection of physical books, e-books, audiobooks, magazines, and newspapers, all available for you to read, borrow, and enjoy. While you're here, be sure to check out a brand new 70-foot mural, Reading Circles/Weaving Dreams/Seeding Futures, by celebrated artist Aliza Nisenbaum.

The President's Reading Room

Explore a collection of written works that reflect the interests, histories, and readings of President and Mrs. Obama. Discover the books that shaped their lives, tracing President Obama's journey as a writer, thinker, and dedicated public servant. 


  • YOUmedia Programming

    YOUmedia (Opens in a new tab) is a modern, creative space where young people explore and build their skills. Teens can try out music production, video editing, and both 2D and 3D design, along with other hands-on creative activities.

  • City Maker Space

    The City Maker Space features introductory workshops (Opens in a new tab) and open shops (Opens in a new tab) for personal projects and collaboration. Explore the full range of making, both high-tech and hands-on.

  • The Children's Area

    Step into our Children’s Area where young imaginations soar. This vibrant space is designed to ignite a lifelong passion for reading in children of all ages. The Center hosts a schedule of exciting events throughout the year, making the Children's Area the perfect destination for fun and learning. 

  • Rachel Carson Courtyard

    Enjoy the outdoors in our library’s courtyard, named after the famed author and conservationist. The courtyard also features Book Bird —one of the last sculptures made by world-renowned artist and Chicago native Richard Hunt. 

Schedule

September 21

Inspiration from the Archives with Avery R. Young (Part II)

Mon, Sep 21 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Chicago Public Library, Obama Presidential Center Branch

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22

My Dad: The Man

Tue, Sep 22 6:00 p.m. - 7:15 p.m. Chicago Public Library, Obama Presidential Center Branch

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October 10

Tortilla Tales: Food, Art, and Mesoamerican Traditions

Sat, Oct 10 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Chicago Public Library, Obama Presidential Center Branch

Register
November 10

Star Trek: Deviations: Threads of Destiny Comic Book Event

Tue, Nov 10 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Chicago Public Library, Obama Presidential Center Branch

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More on the Library

P44 list
The President's List
Discover some of President Obama's favorite books over the years.
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storytime
Storytime with the Obamas
Listen in as President and Mrs. Obama read along to The Word Collector by Peter Reynolds.
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Programming
Programming And Events
Get a sneak peek into some of our programs designed for book lovers of all ages.
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Plan Your Visit

  • Getting to the Campus

    Map out your route to our campus before you visit.

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  • Museum

    Explore the remarkable story of President Obama and Michelle Obama and those who inspired their journey.

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  • Sky Room

    Head to the top of the Museum and take in stunning views of the West and South Sides of Chicago. 

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  • Accessibility

    Check out all of the accessibility options across our campus.

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  • Dining

    Nourish your soul (and stomach) with our dining options brought to you through a collaboration between Bon Appétit Management and Chicago’s own Chef Cliff Rome. 

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  • Shop

    Take home exclusive merchandise inspired by the city of Chicago, the Obamas’ legacy, and the Presidential Center campus. 

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