Discover how Chicagoans explored reading, birding, sustainability, and community fun during Summer at CPL. Thanks to donors and patrons!
This summer, Chicago Public Library was alive with curiosity, creativity, and connection. From discovering new hobbies to planting seeds (both literal and figuratively), Chicagoans took full advantage of Summer at CPL, themed Growing Minds, Going Green. Here are just a few memorable stories to close out another successful season!
Campfire Storytime + Nature-Inspired Crafts for the Family
Rica Bouso, Marketing Director at CPLF joined hundreds of families in kicking off summer at the Sulzer branch. The day started with singing, dancing, and of course reading in campfire storytime by Firefly Family Theater.
“The kiddos were so engaged. They were dancing and singing along! It’s always so fun to meet other families.”
The festivities continued with nature-inspired craft stations (plus a craft kit you can take home!), a forest play area for toddlers to learn about animals and plants. Everyone was also treated to a free Eli’s cheesecake to celebrate summer.
A Hat, a Birding Kit, and a New Way to See the City
When Chicago Public Library announced this year’s summer program and the fact that participants could earn a hat, one library lover knew she had to join.
As a lifelong reader who rekindled her reading habit after her daughter was born, she’s made going to the Library a family tradition. First came quiet nights reading eBooks while her baby slept, then story time sessions at the Edgebrook branch, and now regular visits with her toddler, who already loves going to the library.
This summer, her reading list was inspired by The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer, a reflection on gift economies—just like the library. That spark led her to check out A Birder’s Guide to the Chicago Region from the Jefferson Park branch. Soon after, she discovered that CPL even lends birding kits. The stars aligned when a toddler painting event at the Dunning branch—one of only two locations offering birding kits—fit perfectly into her schedule.
“We went to the event and my daughter had a great time,” she shared. “I got my hat, checked out a birding kit, and have been using it all week in my backyard and at birding hotspots around the city. This challenge reaffirmed my love of public libraries and gave me unique opportunities to share that love with my daughter.”
Growing Greener at Harold Washington Library Center
For Marissa De La Cerda, Marketing Manager at CPLF, the summer theme was a perfect fit. Already on a personal sustainability journey, she jumped right in with the Go Green Fair at Harold Washington Library Center on June 25. Dozens of organizations like Read and Run Chicago, Plant Chicago, El Paseo Community Garden had tables with materials describing their mission and ways people can volunteer with them or do their part in making Chicago more eco-friendly.
“I met great people and organizations doing climate justice work,” Marissa said. “It was inspiring to see so many Chicagoans committed to making a difference.”
The event sparked new ideas for everyday sustainability (like how to recycle plastics and other hard-to-recycle items) while reinforcing habits she’s already embraced, like composting food scraps through the City of Chicago’s drop-off program.
Planting Seeds at Humboldt Park
For Harriett Davis, Development Communications Manager at CPLF, summer began with a hands-on experience: a seed starting workshop at the newly refreshed Humboldt Park branch.
“I’m pleased to share that my [lettuce, arugula and spinach] seeds have already sprouted… must be something about the magic of libraries,” she said.
The Hat Worn Around the City
Many Chicagoans completed their Summer at CPL challenge and claimed their free hat—spotted everywhere from neighborhood farmers markets to bike trails along the lakefront.
More than just a souvenir, the hat became a badge of accomplishment and a conversation starter about the joy of reading, exploring, and connecting through CPL.
This summer at CPL was more than just reading books. It was about growing connections, trying something new, and discovering how the library can support every interest, from birding to gardening to building a greener future.
Thank you to BMO, Allstate, Amazon, KPMG, Helen M. Harrison Foundation, The Brinson Family Foundation, Dr. Scholl Foundation, Cubs Charities and other generous donors for making this a summer to remember, and to Library users across the city for joining us in celebrating the joy of learning, exploring, and connecting at Chicago Public Library.
