Amidst the bustling energy of Lincoln Square stands the Sulzer Regional Library. It’s a grand building, a testament to the legacy of Conrad Sulzer. He was Chicago’s first white settler in what is now Lakeview Township.
The Sulzer Regional Library opened its doors in 1985. It serves not only as a repository of knowledge but as a vibrant community hub. The library replaced the smaller Frederick H. Hild Regional Library. The current building, designed by the architectural firm of Hammond Beeby and Babka, boasts a German neo-classical style. This architectural choice is a nod to the area’s German heritage. It’s also reminiscent of the style of renowned German-American architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
Stepping inside, you’ll find yourself in a spacious, light-filled building. It spans an impressive 65,000 square feet. The library’s interior is adorned with unique, custom-made furniture. Much of it reflects a German mythological theme. The children’s section is a particularly lively area, especially in the mornings. It’s filled with not just books, but also blocks, LEGOs, and puzzles. This space invites young minds to explore and learn through play. More than 20 computers are available for children, offering a digital gateway to learning.
Beyond its extensive collection of books, Sulzer Regional Library is home to several notable works of art. These pieces were funded by the Percent for Art Ordinance. The collection includes frescoes titled “Petrouchka” by Nicholas Africano, a painting by Sandra Jorgensen, and a mural titled “The Aeneid” by Irene Siegel. Interestingly, Siegel’s mural sparked controversy upon its unveiling. Some community members found its depiction of Virgil’s Aeneid, alongside passages from Pablo Neruda, Nikos Kazantzakis, and Johann von Goethe, to be too sinister.
The library has also faced other challenges. In 2001, a controversy arose regarding the removal of a large number of books. While the library stated it was standard procedure to remove older or damaged books, the incident sparked community concern and led to the formation of a citizen advisory committee. The Sulzer family, for whom the library is named, played a significant role in the development of the area. Conrad Sulzer, a Swiss immigrant, arrived in Chicago in 1836. He transformed the wilderness into a thriving farm and horticultural garden. Sulzer and his son also held various local offices. They left behind a legacy of public service. This legacy continues to this day through the Sulzer Family Foundation.
The Sulzer Regional Library stands as more than just a building. It represents a bridge between the past and the present. It embodies the spirit of learning, community, and the enduring legacy of the Sulzer family.