This temporary library has been closed and the collection has moved to the brand new West Town Branch, dedicated on 9/11/2010. Watch for a posting soon.
Little gem inside a beautiful prairie style park district building on Chicago Avenue in Ukrainian Village. This is a small collection, inside a wing of the Eckhart Park District field house. It's only been a branch since 2005, when the original storefront across the street no longer wanted the library. I am guessing the upgrading of Chicago Avenue in this location, provided the
landlord with a better tenant? Though community members may wish for a bigger, dedicated branch library, this tiny facility has charm and a cozy bright atmosphere. Hand painted cornices and brick walls make for a fine place to read and relax. The wafting scent of chlorine is subtle, as the space is connected to the Ida Crown Natatorium, an indoor pool from the original park built in 1905. You can work out, and find a good read on the same visit. There was also a good selection of books for sale for 50 cents-- the libraries weed out good stuff for you to take home, and no worries about overdue fines.
Across the street, is the Swim Cafe, good coffee and sandwiches along with a lively view of Chicago Avenue Street life. I had a perfect view of the wacky Chiditerod while enjoying my latte and egg sandwich, teams dressed up with decorated grocery carts running through the icy streets scavenging for required items along the way. Always something fun to see near a library.
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