PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

This is Chicago’s largest library, and as far as I know, the only one open on Sundays. There is an over abundance of information here for all ages. There is plenty for kids to do - this isn‘t just a place for college kids! And, because it’s located just south of the Loop, the Washington Library is a great place to plan a day around!

The first stop should be to visit the librarian, ensuring your library card is up to date, as are your children’s cards. They are only good for two years, so getting that taken care of ahead of time is a very good idea! Trust me, it will save a lot of headache if you do this before you find the books you like! What? You don’t have one? Then be sure to bring a form of identification along with a piece of mail that proves you are indeed a Chicago resident. Even if you don’t plan on checking out any books that day, accessing many of their computers requires one.

After that is all squared away, it’s time to check out all those wonderful tomes! The Children’s Library is located on the second floor, which of course is the focus point for moms and dads. There are more children’s books here than anyplace else in the entire city - take that, Barnes and Noble! They have their own check out desk and bathrooms, as well as seating for up to 150, with tables and chairs just the right size.

On top of that, there are plenty of story time sessions and events for kids that many families visit every week. Many home schooling families get a lot of use out of this library, making this department of the library very safe and conductive for learning at any time of the day. In fact, there are so many events centered around children that it can be hard to visit only once a week. Be sure to grab an event flyer when you visit, as there is always something special going on! Be sure to head upstairs, too! On the ninth floor is the winter garden, which is simply stunning! It’s over 100 feet tall beneath a huge sky light, housing beautiful trees, with even more tables for reading - a wonderful way to top off the visit!