Ep. 2: The Library as the Soul of the Community

Throughout history, libraries have been vibrant community spaces in a city as cultural hubs for rising Black artists and writers during the Black Renaissance. We explore the career of Vivian G. Harsh, Chicago Public Library’s first Black librarian, who made the Hall Branch in the Bronzeville neighborhood a key community center. We also explore the impact of Charlemae Hill Rollins, who played a critical role in changing Black representation in children’s literature. Finally, we dive deep into why it’s crucial to have spaces devoted to bringing communities together and how today’s libraries continue to champion that mission in new and innovative ways. More on this episode. https://www.chipublib.org/blogs/post/library-for-the-people-episode-2/ Donate to the Chicago Public Library Foundation https://cplfoundation.org/

Om Podcasten

Chicago Public Library is turning 150 and we have stories to tell. This six-episode limited series takes us on a journey – from building a library after the Great Chicago Fire to reimagining what libraries could be. Along the way, we will meet different Library People: librarians, patrons, authors, and so much more. Each episode will bring a mix of voices and stories found in Chicago’s 80+ branches that make Chicago Public Library a city treasure and a leader in the space.  Join us as we go behind the scenes, get an insider’s view of how libraries work and come away with a renewed appreciation for why they matter more than ever.