January 20, 2014

New Study Ranks Chicago Public Library 1st in U.S. and 3rd in World

International Study Notes Leading Role Chicago Libraries Play in Leveraging Technology to Enhance Services

Mayor's Press Office    312.744.3334

A new international study ranks the Chicago Public Library number one in the United States and number three in the world, ahead of Shanghai (5th), Singapore (7th), New York (9th), Beijing (13th), Hong Kong (17th) and London (30th).

“Libraries serve as economic and social anchors in our communities, which is why it is so important to invest in these neighborhood hubs,” said Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “This report adds to the volume of research recognizing the leading global role that Chicago Public Library has taken in leveraging technology to enhance library services and underscores the fact that Chicago is recognized internationally as a world-class City.”

The empirical study ranked the core services of public libraries across the globe and was released by the Information Science Department of the Heinrich Heine University Dusseldorf in Germany. It ranks Chicago 1st domestically and 3rd internationally as one of the 31 major urban libraries taking a leadership role in supporting “smart cities” in the “knowledge economy.” To view the study, click here.

The Chicago Public Library is comprised of the Harold Washington Library Center, two regional libraries and more than 70 neighborhood branches. All locations provide free access to a rich collection of books, DVDs, audio books and music; the Internet and Wi-Fi; sophisticated research databases, many of which can be accessed from a home or office computer; newspapers and magazines; and continue to serve as cultural centers, presenting the highest quality author discussions, exhibits and programs for children teens and adults. Visit www.chipublib.org for more information.

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