11 free things you probably didn’t know you can do with a Chicago Public Library card

Did you know you can stream blockbuster movies, TV shows and music for free with a Chicago Public Library card? What about the fact that you can get a free language learning app subscription? A CPL card is more powerful than you think. 

The perks of being a CPL cardholder go far beyond being able to check out books. In addition to thousands of events across the 82 branches, many of which are also open to non-cardholders, there are many free things you can do just by having a library card.

Any Chicago resident can register for a free library card. All you have to do is bring a valid ID with your name, photo and address to any CPL branch and fill out a simple application. Children under 14 are eligible for a youth card, and students have access to additional card options.  

RECOMMENDED: 11 things you can do at the Obama Presidential Center without a ticket

Whether you’re headed to the new branch at the Obama Presidential Center or one of the many other beautiful libraries, there are dozens of free services and experiences that cardholders have access to—you just need to know where to look. Here are the best free things you probably didn’t know you can do with a library card.

1. Get into Chicago museums

With a CPL card, you can get into most Chicago museums for free by reserving a pass online. Just show up at the museum at your reserved time with your digital pass and ID, and enjoy a day of discovery. 

2. Stream movies, TV shows and music

Free access to entertainment streaming services through the library might make you rethink how many subscriptions you’re paying for. Cardholders can stream movies, TV shows, music, audiobooks, ebooks and more through hoopla. Here, you’ll find A24 films, trending albums and binge-worthy shows galore. 

3. Learn a language

Whether you want to brush up on your Spanish or are interested in picking up Norwegian, you can do so with Mango or Little Pim. Mango is a digital platform and app that offers lessons on more than 70 languages, including English. For kids, Little Pim is a digital service that offers lessons on a dozen languages, from French to Arabic.

4. Get a complete set of books for everyone in your book club

Starting a new read with your book club is simple when you have a library card, thanks to The Reading Set. Cardholders can reserve a set of eight to 12 books for their group to read, discuss and return before moving on to the next. There are more than 300 titles available, ranging from new releases and award-winners to poetry, short stories and international literature. 

5. Rent vinyl and CDs

In addition to movies, you can check out CDs and vinyl to spin on your turntable at home. It’s a great way to sample albums before heading to a record store and adding something to your permanent collection.

6. Get access to the New York Times and Wall Street Journal

You don’t need a subscription to read the Chicago Tribune or Chicago Sun-Times—you just need a library card. The CPL offers full texts of all articles from both local papers, with archives that span back decades. You can also read stories from other major publications like the New York Times and Wall Street Journal.

7. Use 3D printers, laser cutters and sewing machines

Head to the third floor of the Harold Washington Library for access to high-tech (and otherwise very expensive) equipment at the Maker Lab. Cardholders can use digital design software, 3D printers, sewing machines, laser cutters and more for free. 

8. Practice on a baby grand piano

For musicians, the eighth floor of the Harold Washington Library Center has a chamber rehearsal room, which contains a baby grand piano and can accommodate three to 10 people. There are also six practice rooms equipped with upright pianos that fit up to three people. All rooms can be reserved online.

9. Printing

Even if you own a printer, does it ever even work? Upload or email your documents and have them printed at a local library instead. It’s 15 cents per page for a single-sided print, and 25 cents per page for a double-sided print, but the first $1.50 in printing is free.

10. Make digital art with your friends

Youth learning space YOUmedia Chicago focuses on digital media and the maker movement, and is available at all 82 CPL locations. Teens can hang out and create music, video, photos, 2D and 3D projects, and more using laptops, cameras and other tech. It’s a dynamic environment designed to help students develop their skills in STEM, with guidance from mentors.

11. Check out a portable Wi-Fi device

Cardholders can check out a portable Wi-Fi device from select library branches. No data plans or subscriptions are needed—just connect your computer, phone, tablet or other device to the hotspot for internet access no matter where you are.