Kelly Branch Library

“A grand bequest,” whispered a librarian, adjusting her spectacles, “that’s how Kelly Branch Library began its life.” The Kelly Branch Library stands before us, a testament to the generosity of Hiram Kelly, a Chicago businessman who clearly loved books. It’s nestled right here at 6151 South Normal Boulevard in Englewood. The year was 1889 when Mr. Kelly bequeathed a substantial $200,000 to the Chicago Public Library Board. They, in turn, honored his memory by using the funds to purchase this very spot and erect the library, the second free-standing branch built by the Chicago Public Library system. It opened its doors on June 24, 1911, bringing knowledge and stories to the community. Originally, eager readers in this area received their literary fix from a delivery station tucked away in a local stationer’s shop. Imagine the excitement when this grand building opened, offering a dedicated space for learning and exploration. Time marched on, and so did the Kelly Branch Library. In 1989, it underwent a major renovation, expanding to 15,000 square feet and adding a spacious meeting room. Today, the Kelly Branch Library not only offers a vast collection of books, but also features a YOUmedia Recording Studio just for teens. Beyond the books, the library houses a vibrant collection of art. Look for “If You Believe” by Robert Dilworth, “Wacko I” by Carl Kock, Jacob Lawrence’s “The Schomburg Library,” and “Still Life with Books and Globe” by Richard Willenbrink. These works, funded by the city’s Percent for Art Ordinance, add another layer of richness to the library’s offerings. So, the next time you’re here, take a moment to appreciate the legacy of Hiram Kelly and the enduring spirit of the Kelly Branch Library. It’s a place where stories come alive, both within the pages of its books and in the very fabric of the building itself.