Chicago-Libraries

The common assumption, at the time this book was written, was that the Chicago Public Library system had been founded in a distinct moment after the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, with help from the British. Author Gwladys Spencer argues that by 1871, the founding of CPL was already underway. The book presents a history of CPL up to 1872, and sets it in the greater context of the library movement in Illinois and around the country. (Adapted from introduction.)