For the Community.
By the Community.

Community Connections Fund

We know Chicago Public Library branches are vital community hubs that foster learning, creativity, and connection in the neighborhoods they serve.

That is why we created the Community Connections Fund, a donor-funded program that empowers local branches and library staff to develop creative, fun, and inventive programs and outreach tailored to their communities and respond to the changing needs of every library user.

Group of community members gathered together outside under colorful decorative lights at a community gathering

Impact At a Glance

Enriching Our Branches

Thanks to the generous support of Wintrust and other generous donors to the Library
Foundation, the Community Connections Fund provides mini-grants that help branches
bring community-driven programs to life in five dynamic categories.

Celebrations & gatherings

Opportunities to connect
with neighbors

Educational workshops

STEM programs, career resources,
and more

Live performances

Concerts, storytelling, &
cultural showcases

Local
author events

Connecting readers with
Chicago writers

Wellness activities

Yoga, meditation, and
mental health workshops

The Fund in Action

Stories from Librarians and Staff

“These efforts have established the public library as a source for environmental education, provide patrons an opportunity to do something environmentally positive for their community, and beautify the Budlong Woods Library.”

Budlong Woods Branch

“We held over 45 programs in October including story programs, kids, teen and adult arts and crafts, film history lectures as well as daily Halloween film screenings. The Community Connections Fund paid for almost all the festivities. It was absolutely the most fun and successful month of programming I have ever been a part of in my 20 years at CPL!”

Austin Irving Branch

“Lozano Branch was able to host a first (of many, hopefully) Senior Appreciation Day. The day began with coffee and pastries, Bingo, and a detailed schedule which included: craft activity stations throughout the branch, presentations and tabling by community organizations, a professional photo shoot, a luncheon, and an ice cream social with line
dancing. We had 89 attendees and learned just how much a trip to the Library can enrich a senior patron’s day.”

Lozano Branch

Do you have questions about the Community Connections Fund?

Please reach out to Kate Nardin at knardin@cplfoundation.org

Email Kate

For the Community. By the Community.