Manning Branch

In the shadow of the United Center, home to Bulls and the Stanley Cup winning Blackhawks, stands the Mabel Manning Branch.  Skyscrapers to the east, refurbished Madison Street and the United Center environs surrounding it, the place has a calm and friendly vibe in its one story boxy construction. It was just after 2PM on a week day and there were students in white shirts and blue pants using the computers and quietly looking at books and chatting. Must have been on their way home from the elementary school just behind us,wearing the uniform required.The Bulls have "adopted" the library and provide funds for a computer room and software.
It was quiet on Madison Street, I know this stretch underwent big changes  before the United Center came in, and the library's namesake, Mabel Manning, was a community activist helping to guide the process.  Known as the "Mayor" of the west side, she lived on Hoyne Avenue, and planted flowers in the empty lots surrounding her home.
The library has a cyber-navigator to help patrons with computer training, and a teacher in the library who is there to help students on week days after school.
Visit and find out more about Mabel Manning, check out the United Center, and wait to see what is going to happen to the new construction still waiting for buyers.