Learn More About the 2023 Library Foundation Awards!

Join the Sandburg Circle

Through annual investments of $1,000 or more, Sandburg Circle members open the doors to learning and personal growth across Chicago through the programming and resources available at Chicago Public Library’s 81 neighborhood branches.
 
In recognition of their important support, we invite Sandburg Circle members to enjoy special receptions with leading talents, reserved seating at in-person literary events, behind-the-scenes insights into the Library’s work, and much more.

Dollar-to-Impact

Your Gift Powers Impact and Empowers Chicagoans

$1,000

provides over 150 kids the opportunity to engage in free STEAM-based educational programming through the Summer Learning Challenge.

$2,500

brings technology access to YOUmedia teen spaces throughout the branch network. Expanding the impact of teen creativity and opening up the world of opportunity.

$5,000

infuses an early learning space with colorful toys, books, and programs grounded in the five practices of early literacy—Talk, Sing, Read, Write, and Play.

$7,500

underwrites the annual Maker in Residence program, which introduces patrons to high-tech tools available in the city’s only free makerspace.

$10,000

supports a full day of professional development for our digital literacy tutors.

The Chicago Public Library Foundation is proud to have earned four stars, the highest possible rating, from the trusted nonprofit evaluation site Charity Navigator.

Your Support Opens Doors to Opportunity

Girl looking up from her homework and smiling.

Bridge the Academic Achievement Gap

With your investment, Chicago students and families can access free homework help, tools for supporting children’s language development, year-round STEAM content for curious young minds—and our librarians stay up to date on the very latest in library learning practices.

A teenager in a red sweatshirt playing the keyboard in a music room.

Activate Connection & Creativity for All

At the Library, ideas come to life. Your support activates everything from maker spaces stocked with 21st century tools to special collections that archive our city’s history to discussions with the most thought-provoking authors of our time.

A cybernavigator helping a patron brush up on their computer skills.

Bridge the Digital Divide

Too many Chicagoans lack the skills and confidence they need to access online employment, educational, and civic resources. Through 1:1 help, user-friendly video modules, and small group classes, donor-supported mentors help these patrons master the digital world.

Click here to learn the impact of your support.

Ready to learn more?