Read/Write Library

Established in 2006, Read/Write Library collects, preserves, and provides access to Chicago community media in order to inspire and promote diverse modes of cultural production and civic engagement. Our nonprofit offers a growing collection of over 6,000 local publications, free browsing hours, an open source catalog, and public programs that reach hundreds of youth and adults each year. We strive to raise the visibility of work produced by Chicagoans of all backgrounds in order to encourage inquiry into and ownership of the historical record and to reveal connections across neighborhoods, generations, and cultures. We recognize the contributions that all community members make to co-creating a city and believe that learning to value them plays a vital role in building empathy, community pride, and the ability to see oneself as a change agent.

Read/Write Library is the only library of its kind in the world. We are growing quickly in Chicago and as interest in our model expands to other cities.