Thomas Hughes Children's Library

Category: Public library in Chicago, Illinois

Address: 400 S State St 2nd Floor, Chicago, IL 60605, USA

Phone: +13127474200

Opening hours

Sunday: 1–5PM

Monday: 9AM–8PM

Tuesday: 9AM–8PM

Wednesday: 9AM–8PM

Thursday: 9AM–8PM

Friday: 9AM–5PM

Saturday: 9AM–5PM

Reviews

O.

Jul 2, 2022

The worst children’s library experience in my life. One walks with an excited 3-year-old, and the first thing the librarian says is, “Don’t run”. The librarians are awful, grumpy, seemingly unhappy to work here, unhelpful. The space needs great updating on activities. Don’t bring your small child here: better to go to a bookstore, where their nature will be welcomed.

Riv Rav

Dec 14, 2021

Please take off old pictures! This library is empty, plenty of books and some movies, but nothing for kids to play with, everything fun is gone. The pictures are misleading, they are years old, nothing to play with here anymore.

Maggie Anaya

Aug 2, 2021

Couldn’t help but feel stoic as I explored each level of this massive and grand space! My daughters and I marveled at the architecture and the magnitude of it all. Level 2 was the reason for our visit a must for any child. Unfortunately we are merely guest on vacation but I’m so glad we were able to take a few moments to marvel at it all. Must be a true experience to get to work here.

Vanessa Barragan

Jun 26, 2021

super everything. I took my two little ones and they had a lot of fun.

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Questions & Answers

How many books are there ?

rani nallu | Nov 3, 2018
Alexandre Reis | Nov 3, 2018

It's difficult to determine the amount of total stock inside... but, for you to have an idea: 120,000 computer instructions sessions provided + 220,000 lab visitors since 2013 + 2,500 children and parent's participated in the PNC- supported words to grow + 27,000 adults participated in the 2016-2018 one book, one Chicago program. Plus than 1,500,000 free books distributed for kids to take home and 17,900 visits to 4,000 youmedia workshops. So... that's a huge collections! And you're mostly welcome to the Chicago Public Library.

Can I go scan some documents here?

Nicole Galvan | Nov 3, 2018
SU | Nov 3, 2018

Yes From library website: It's free to scan a document and either save it to a USB drive or email it. Black and white printing of a scanned document costs 15 cents a page. Color printing is not available. The following file types are supported: PDF (including searchable PDF) Microsoft Word TIFF JPEG Once you've scanned a document or photograph, you can: save it to a USB drive email it to yourself or others print it upload it to a Google Drive account download it to a smartphone using a URL embedded in a QR code

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Today is very hot ... does the library close at the same time?

Misael Bustos | Nov 3, 2018
Quin O'Brien | Nov 3, 2018

I think if

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Anonymous | Nov 2, 2022
Anonymous | Nov 2, 2022

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Are their Mac Computers that can be used if so where are they located??

Manessa Williams | Nov 3, 2018
Alexandre Reis | Nov 3, 2018

I don't think this kind of techies will be able to used for library users, I believe I saw only in the San Francisco Library, Manessakonthebeat 😀

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How do I put in a complaint against another Chicago Public Library

Carla Pruitt | Nov 3, 2018
SU | Nov 3, 2018

Sort of depends, if you want to complain about the employees there, building, etc., Call the branch and ask to speak to the branch head. If it is the branch head, you could call and ask for the phone number and name of person supervising branches. Might be easiest to just call reference at main and ask who you should call. That's the easiest way. It is their job to answer questions like that. I looked on the website, i didn't see any clear person for you to contact.

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Can I print some of my documents there?

Dr. Rahul Patel | Nov 3, 2019
Miles Betley | Nov 3, 2019

Yes

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Does the library carry the reciprocal borrowing program?

Jeff Almaraz | Nov 3, 2019
Julia | Nov 3, 2019

If you mean with other local libraries in the metropolitan area.. sort of. You can go to Evanston public library, for example, and use your Chicago public library card to take out books there. Also, you can utilize Interlibrary Loan (ilu) at CPL. Ask a librarian about how to use it or if you have used it else where, look for the link to make ILU requests at the very bottom left of the main CPL website page.

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Are there actual books for the blind here?

Remi Cross | Nov 3, 2018
SU | Nov 3, 2019

Yes. You may want to search the library catalog for what you want. You may limit by format - probably Braille, large print, audiobooks, etc. I encourage you to contact the library directly for assistance, if you want or need more assistance. You may also request interlibrary loans if the library does not have the items you want. The librarians are happy to help you.

What programs do the computers have? Do they have Microsoft Access?

Alexandra Espinoza | Nov 3, 2018
Namjoon Monster | Nov 3, 2018

yeah they do, but i don't which internet server they use. For example, explore or chrome.

Can we get the pass aquarium Chicago

ben truong | Nov 3, 2018
SU | Nov 3, 2018

Yes. Check the website if and what branches available. Or call the library. Rules - from library website: The Kids Museum Passport allows a family of four general admission during regular hours.A group must include at least one child under 18 for the pass to be valid.A maximum of two adults are admitted with each pass. Passes are available for 17 museums. Click the museum name to see if a pass is available to check out:

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Do the library help with the navigation on how to work the computers

Sherese Spraggins | Nov 3, 2018
Jason Cadell | Nov 3, 2018

Get computer help from CyberNavigator technology tutors citywide. CyberNavigators offer classes and one-on-one sessions. One-on-one sessions are available by appointment and last up to an hour. Learn about: Computer basics Email and internet basics Online job searching and resume writing CPL website and online resources eBooks and other digital content Some CyberNavigators offer help in languages in addition to English. Ask your CyberNavigator for details. This program is funded by grants to the Chicago Public Library Foundation. Get Help Online Use Chicago DigitalLearn to find videos on computer skills like: Email Searching the internet Online job searching and resume writing Using Facebook and Skype Need help getting started? Ask your CyberNavigator about how to use Chicago DigitalLearn. Chicago DigitalLearn videos are also available in Spanish.

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Is there computers to use for printing without a library card?

Seraphina Hunter | Nov 3, 2018
S Johnson | Nov 3, 2018

You can get a visitor card to print

What is available time during weekday?

Hye Kyoung Kim | Nov 3, 2018
Miss Delgado | Nov 3, 2019

The weekday: Monday-Thursday 9-9 Friday 9-5

Is free parking available??

Patricia Watson | Nov 3, 2018
SU | Nov 3, 2018

Not even cheap parking is available.

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Whats the hours for the tax's

Brenda Gibson | Nov 3, 2018
John Ralyea | Nov 3, 2018

Best check the library's website or give them a call.

Do you have CDs of African Music?

Reggie Davenport | Nov 3, 2018
SU | Nov 3, 2018

Yes. I looked in the online catalog which is available on the library website.

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Does the library have enough power outlet for phones and laptops

Dany Paul | Nov 3, 2018
SU | Nov 3, 2018

Yes!

How do i get a new library card that i can access today?

Candice Howard | Nov 3, 2018
Miss Delgado | Nov 3, 2019

If you got your library today, you're able to use it the same day.

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Does the library print colored pages??

janet reyes | Nov 3, 2018
John Ralyea | Nov 3, 2018

I don't think so. Just black & white. For color you may have to go to FedEx or some place like that.

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Who manages Harold Washington's library ,is there an e-mail address?

David Dehart | Nov 3, 2018
John Ralyea | Nov 3, 2018

Look up Harold Washington Library on Facebook. Very good site: Everything you might want to know can be found yhere.

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Is there an admission charge?

Abbigail Williams | Nov 3, 2018
Melody C Jefferson | Nov 3, 2018

Lol the public library is FREE!😂😂 Just curious, if it wasn't free how much would you pay to get in?

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How much does a replacement library card cost.

PhyliciaRudy Pulliam | Nov 3, 2017
SU | Nov 3, 2018

Replacement cards are $1. I looked it up on their website. You could too!

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Is there free parking?

Manita Qahhaar | Nov 3, 2017
Wilson Burbano | Nov 3, 2017

CTA is the way to go.no free parking

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What days are the tax preparers at Hatold Washington Library.

Robert Williams | Nov 3, 2017
Miss Delgado | Nov 3, 2019

They usually have those posted on their calendars/events page.

Is the Harold Washington open today because of the labor day weekend?

Wilson Burbano | Nov 3, 2017
Elliott Cook | Nov 3, 2017

Yes, the library is open 1-5pm today. However, they are closed tomorrow, Monday.

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I'm visiting from Texas but I want to research my genealogy at the library. How do I accomplish that?

Monsieur Noir | Nov 3, 2017
iris velez | Nov 3, 2017

The Harold Washington Library subscribes to Ancestry. With assistance from a librarian, you might be able to access the Ancestry database to find out information about your genealogy. Hope this helpful!

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Hello I am coming to the library for the first time. I need to request the Chicago Herald & Examiner on microfilm. Can you tell me what floor I would visit? Thank you.

David McCain | Nov 3, 2019
Kevin Perry | Nov 3, 2019

When i was there years ago i didnt look up info on microfilm so i dont know the procedures or which floor thats on. Sorry, perhaps check their main number or help desk.

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Is there a library drop off for after hours at the library?

Mindy Hogan | Nov 3, 2019
Christopher Crotwell | Nov 3, 2019

They are on State Street at the main entrance and on Plymouth Court just south of the entrance there. All materials left in drop boxes are backdated and checked in as if it is the day before the boxes are emptied in the morning.

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Can anyone visit the large room on the upper floor or is it restricted?

Rufino Salgado | Nov 3, 2019
latonya hayes | Nov 3, 2019

All floors with the exception of the 10th floor can be visited, provided there is no event restricting the public from the area. That's ranging from the lower level up to the 9th floor

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I need to make a library card?

Stefany Costa | Nov 3, 2019
Lenore Campbell | Nov 3, 2019

Go to the front desk with a current ID and they will help you get one.

Do you need I'd to enter

Walt Daniels | Nov 3, 2019
Lenore Campbell | Nov 3, 2019

No, you do not.

Do computers there have flash player?

Dr. Rahul Patel | Nov 3, 2019
Lenore Campbell | Nov 3, 2019

Yes

Are there any lockers here?

Leena Varshney | Nov 3, 2019
Clark Broel | Nov 3, 2019

I don't believe so

Where is parking?

Vivian Bridges | Nov 3, 2019
Lenore Campbell | Nov 3, 2019

You can use CPS parking at 651 s state str. It's a short walk away.

Is there books for french learners??

Johana Baez | Nov 3, 2019
Philip Moore | Nov 3, 2019

Yes, there are many different books for learning french and other languages.

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can you get the free admission tickets via mail????

meredith dixon | Nov 3, 2019
SU | Nov 3, 2019

Free admission to what? The library? Admission IS free. From library website services FAQ: For the museum passes. First-come, first-served. No holds, no mail. Show up at the library to obtain museum pass.

When and where is Ms Smith, the poet laureate reading on Saturday

roger mcclanahan | Nov 3, 2019
Miles Betley | Nov 3, 2019

Sunday April 27 at 2.

Do they have urdu books

Saba Azaz Khan | Nov 3, 2019
Dawn Sult | Nov 3, 2019

There are 360 Urdu books listed at this library. You can search for specific titles as well as whether or not they are available. https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com

What's your day off???

Yara Elkadi | Nov 3, 2019
Joojoo Bears | Nov 3, 2019

Christmas

Is Library still work at April???

Yara Elkadi | Nov 3, 2019
Lenore Campbell | Nov 3, 2019

The library is still open in April.

How would I go about getting connected with the adult services such as available DVD's, books on the shelf, free seminars, etc.?

Terence Pirtle | Nov 3, 2019
Philip Moore | Nov 3, 2019

You can go to the front desk and they can help you with your questions. There is always someone there to provide assistance, and the library is open until 9pm on most days of the week.

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Can you get an electronic Library card here? What's the link to Sign-up? ..

Spam Act User Anonymous | Nov 3, 2019
Madeleine Austin | Nov 3, 2019

There is no version of a library card that is only electronic. You have to sign up for a normal library card and then enter the number and your pin on the website or app. To activate the card for online use, you need to talk to a librarian. If you're interested in ebooks, I find that the Libby app is helpful for managing those loans.

Can I please get the 1984 CBS Fox VHS of "A Boy Named Charlie Brown"? I can't find it online and I need to convert it on DVD and scan the box and labels.

Princess Daisy's Video Heap | Nov 3, 2019
Princess Daisy's Video Heap | Nov 3, 2019

Hope they have a 1984 VHS copy from CBS FOX Children's Video.

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Can I access a computer to create a resume?

Mary Krause | Nov 3, 2019
Vasek Quezadayygccvo | Nov 3, 2019

Yes, you need a library card and you get two 1 hour sessions.

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What do you need to get a library card? Send do need to have a library card to use the computer's?

Robert Mayberry | Nov 3, 2019
Miss Delgado | Nov 3, 2019

A picture ID and proof of address (bill, bank statement). You can get can get a guest pass to use the computer if you do not have a library card.

Is there books in different languages?

rizwan tariq | Nov 3, 2019
Lenore Campbell | Nov 3, 2019

Yes. Checking the catalog on the website will tell you which ones.

How much is printing

Christopher Roberson | Nov 3, 2019
Jorge Garcia | Nov 3, 2019

.15 per page

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Where are practice rooms located?

Zoi | Nov 3, 2019
Lenore Campbell | Nov 3, 2019

The librarian at the main desk would be able to tell you. They are very friendly eith any questions.

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How do you reserve or use a practice room?

Zoi | Nov 3, 2019
Miss Delgado | Nov 3, 2019

At the bottom of the website there's a link that takes you to the reserving rooms page. You shade the day/time boxes you prefer and you'll get a confirmation email when you're done!

Are they doing early voting at Harold Washington Library?

Sarah Webster | Nov 3, 2018
Vasek Quezadayygccvo | Nov 3, 2018

No, but most other public libraries are.

Am I able drop return books when doing clothing hours

Sherwin Degraffenreid | Nov 3, 2018
Jaydyn king Wilson | Nov 3, 2018

Yes. You can put the items in the book drop outside.

How can I check out from home?... THANK YOU...

Enoc Dominguez | Nov 3, 2018
Madeleine Austin | Nov 3, 2019

translation below It is not possible to check out from home. If you have found the books online, you can put the books "on hold" at the nearest library. But the library doesn't work like Amazon ;) Translation: it isn't possible to check out books from home. If you've found the books online, you can put them on hold at the closest library. But he library doesn't work like Amazon ;)

Can you get colored copies there?

Michelle Washington | Nov 3, 2018
SU | Nov 3, 2019

No. According to library website, no color copies. 15¢ for Black and White. No other colors.

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What kind of computers does the library have? And do these computers have a CD/DVD drive?

Anna Percival | Nov 3, 2018
andrew boersma | Nov 3, 2018

No they don't have a cd/dvd drive at all but the Ada complianced computers do maybe

I want to get copy of news paper headlines for different years can I do that there

Maria E Caldero | Nov 3, 2018
Abdullrahman Alamoudi | Nov 3, 2018

Yah i think so

Is there a book drop box for returning books if the library is closed?

Mike Buhr | Nov 3, 2018
David | Nov 3, 2018

Yes

Are we able to print pages in color there ?

Dayra Soto | Nov 3, 2018
SU | Nov 3, 2018

No.

what's the pin number on a new card

Violeta Stosic | Nov 3, 2018
Jose | Nov 3, 2018

It should be your home's zip code.

I have a library card and I want to print 2 pages how much does that cost me ?

Kiera Tate | Nov 3, 2018
andrew boersma | Nov 3, 2018

15 cents per page 30 cents for 2 pages

How do i get a library card?

Candice Howard | Nov 3, 2018
SU | Nov 3, 2019

From library website: Please visit any CPL location to fill out a library card application. You’ll need to show a current, valid ID with your name, photo and Chicago address, such as any Illinois state-issued identification. If you don’t have a photo ID with your name and current Chicago address, please bring two pieces of current ID. One of these must include your name and Chicago address, and one must include your name and photo. Accepted forms of ID include: Personal check Current telephone, gas, electric or cable bill, or other service provider billing statements Mail postmarked within 30 days Voter registration card Post office box numbers are not accepted. If you don’t have a fixed address, you may use a letter certifying your Chicago residency from the social service agency where you receive mail.

How to access old Fellowship Baptist Church Broadcasts from the 70’s

Danny Darkins | Nov 3, 2018
Melody C Jefferson | Nov 3, 2018

Ask the staff on the 8th floor. They should know. Or try YouTube.

Where in the library can you talk on the phone

jane martin | Nov 3, 2017
David | Nov 3, 2017

Go upstair and you will find a garden. Talk there quietly. The graden is so wonderful.

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When is the best time to come to have attention of staff to help you redo your CV?

Bistra Nahdenova | Nov 3, 2017
SU | Nov 3, 2019

From library website: Get computer help from CyberNavigator technology tutors citywide. CyberNavigators offer classes and one-on-one sessions. One-on-one sessions are available by appointment and last up to an hour. Learn about: Computer basics Email and internet basics Online job searching and resume writing CPL website and online resourcese Books and other digital content Some CyberNavigators offer help in languages in addition to English. Ask your CyberNavigator for details.

Do you make appointment for Income fill out assistant

Belinda Jimmerson | Nov 3, 2017
Elliott Cook | Nov 3, 2017

Hi, Belinda. Are you referring to income tax assistance? No, you do not need an appointment. The program is first come, first served, so arrive early if possible.

Fastest subway to Harold Washington Library?

Cheryl Howard | Nov 3, 2017
Elliott Cook | Nov 3, 2017

Hi, Cheryl. That depends on where you're coming from. The Brown Orange, Pink, and Purple lines all stop at Harold Washington, as well as LaSalle and Van Buren. The Red and Blue lines stop at Jackson.

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What is the quickest way to reach the Harold Washington Library?

Cheryl Howard | Nov 3, 2017
Ann Feeney | Nov 3, 2018

Depends on where you're coming from. Almost all the El lines stop nearby and they're generally the fastest way to get anywhere in the Loop. Google Maps is reliable for the area, so overall, I'd recommend that for your specific address.

I'm having an issue with a wifi hotspot I borrowed. Is there a data limit when I borrow those? I can't seem to get anyone on the phone. Halp!

R Marie McIntosh-Akins | Nov 3, 2017
SU | Nov 3, 2019

From library website: If you need help using a WiFi hotspot or a Chromebook Kit, schedule an appointment with one of our CyberNavigator technology tutors. CyberNavigators help with computer skills through one-on-one sessions and classes

Do uoi have spanish language teacjing books for checkout?

teddrick milsap | Nov 3, 2017
Michael Bessler | Nov 3, 2017

Yes

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