Beverly Branch

This newest of the 53 libraries built in Chicago, is a lovely sunny space for books and people.
I looked for a few things in the craft and cookbook sections, and found Molly Wizenburg's memoir/cookbook. Also saw that TC Boyle's new book, The Women, was in but couldn't find it. It took some time to get in line, and then be pointed to another staff for help and after a few false starts, she said, oh- it might be in the back, we haven't put up the entire collection as it didn't all fit when the library opened? But she did find it for me, and was helpful, if rushed.
I was surprised that any mention of the special "green" features of the library were not highlighted anywhere in the space. I saw that it was LEED eligible, meaning that features to reduce energy use and special construction techniques were used. Seems like that would be something the Daley folks would want to tout, especially with the great new building plan for community libraries.
Check out staff were a bit officious about the line, so I think supervisors haven't quite jelled yet in the new space. It wasn't that busy, so graciousness was a totally reasonable expectation.

95th Street at that spot is just turning from a lower income neighborhood, to the upscale Beverly. Going a short way West and South, you will find some gorgeous old homes on manicured properties, with hills and curvy streets. The trees are old and provide a shady canopy over meandering sidewalks. I found a Starbucks on 103rd and Longwood

that was rebuilt from an old Christian Church reading room-the Church itself had been turned into condos next door.

Worth a visit to see a neighborhood library with all the trimmings and a small town feel in the heart of south side Chicago.