    
A bit of History...
The Circulation Desk of the Chicago Public Library, pictured above (circa 1940s), became Preston Bradley Hall in 1977 when the spectacular setting was transformed into a performance hall and civic reception area.
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Preston Bradley Hall
The 38-foot dome in Preston Bradley Hall
is thought to be the world's largest Tiffany dome, valued at an estimated
$35 million. The many patterns in the ornately decorated room are influenced
by nature. Among the organic shapes and textures are the scales of fish,
which may be found in the dome and hanging Tiffany lamps. At the top of
the dome are symbols of the Zodiac. The supporting arches are adorned with
mosaic scrolls and rosettes bearing the symbols of 16th century master
printers. The hall's east and west wings are accessible through large,
graceful arches which bear the names of great writers of the western world.
Inscriptions in ten languages extol the wisdom found in books.
View Preston Bradley Hall
One of the mosaic medallions that
decorates the Cultural Center's Grand Staircase
and Preston Bradley Hall.
View the Grand Stairscase
Renovated in the 1970s into a performance
hall and civic reception area, Preston Bradley Hall provides a spectacular
setting for concerts and performances, ranging from the classical music
of the weekly Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concertseries to the lively
and educational Young Peoples Concerts.
Whatever the program, Preston Bradley Hall
resonates with the joyful sound of applause. And when free public programs
are not scheduled, the glamour and grandeur
of this sumptuous hall are available for
private parties, meetings, and receptions. |
