Newberry Library

Newberry Library Chicago Visiting Hours, Tickets & Historical Site Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s Near North Side, the Newberry Library is a celebrated beacon of historical scholarship, architectural grandeur, and cultural preservation. Established in 1887 through the bequest of Walter Loomis Newberry, this independent research library has evolved into one of Chicago’s most treasured cultural landmarks. Committed to public accessibility and scholarly rigor, the Newberry offers visitors free access to its vast humanities collections, which include over 1.6 million books, 5 million manuscript pages, and significant materials in American Indian studies, Chicago and Midwest history, genealogy, and the history of the book (Newberry Library History Guide, PDF; Britannica; Newberry Library Official Site).

The Newberry’s iconic Romanesque building, designed by Henry Ives Cobb and completed in 1893, stands as an architectural jewel of the city. Its stone façade, grand reading rooms, and meticulously preserved interiors provide a setting that is both functional and timeless (Architect Magazine; chicagology.com).

This guide details everything you need to know about visiting the Newberry Library—from hours and ticket policies to architectural highlights, collections, and practical visitor tips. Whether you’re an avid researcher or a casual explorer, the Newberry promises a rich and memorable experience (Newberry Library Visiting Info; Choose Chicago).

Bruce Rogers Bookplate at Newberry Library

Postcard of Newberry Library in Chicago from the I Will series

Historic postcard of Newberry Library Chicago from Washington Square circa 1910

Commemorative print of Abraham Lincoln rising Christ-like from the grave after his death

Newberry Library on North Clark Street in Chicago historic postcard

The Cow Boy 1888 near Sturgis Dakota Territory

Front view of The Newberry Library building with clear blue sky

Historical world map using Mercator Projection by Edward Wright and Emery Molyneux, published in 1600

Introduction
Historical Overview
Visiting the Newberry Library
Architectural Features
Collections and Exhibitions
Public Programs and Research Services
Amenities and Visitor Comfort
Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Community Engagement and Cultural Significance
Plan Your Visit
References

Historical Overview

Origins and Founding

The Newberry Library was made possible by Walter Loomis Newberry, a 19th-century Chicago businessman whose will stipulated that, should his daughters die without heirs, his estate would establish a “free, public library on the north side of the Chicago river” (Newberry Library History Guide, PDF; Britannica; Encyclopedia of Chicago). After his family line ended, trustees allocated over $2 million to the library’s founding.

Early Development and Mission

The library opened its doors in 1887, originally in temporary locations before moving in 1893 to its permanent home at 60 West Walton Street. The trustees chose to focus on non-circulating research and reference collections for scholars and those conducting “careful researches,” distinguishing the Newberry from circulating public libraries (Britannica; Newberry Library History Guide, PDF).

Architectural Significance

Henry Ives Cobb’s design for the Newberry reflects the Romanesque style, with robust rusticated stonework, rounded arches, and a sense of permanence. The building’s thoughtful blend of utility and elegance has made it a lasting landmark in Chicago’s architectural landscape (Architect Magazine; chicagology.com).

Growth of Collections and Research Centers

Today, the Newberry’s collections span six centuries and include strengths in American and Indigenous studies, Chicago and Midwest history, genealogy, cartography, and the history of the book. Specialized research centers have made the Newberry a hub for academic communities and interdisciplinary innovation (Wikipedia; Illinois Issues).

Public Engagement and Education

From its inception, the Newberry has emphasized public access, evolving to serve a diverse community through its Center for Public Programs, educational initiatives like the Chicago Metro History Fair, and robust exhibitions. The library continually strives for inclusivity and relevance in its programming (Newberry Strategic Plan, PDF; Encyclopedia of Chicago).

Cultural Significance

The Newberry’s exhibitions, public programs, and partnerships—particularly with Indigenous groups—bridge the past and present, making the institution both a steward of cultural memory and a space for contemporary dialogue (Newberry Strategic Plan, PDF; Newberry Exhibitions).

Visiting the Newberry Library

Visiting Hours

Tuesday–Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Closed Sundays and Mondays
Holiday hours may vary; check the official website for updates.

Admission & Tickets

Admission is always free. No tickets are required.
Some special events or workshops may require advance registration (Newberry Library Visiting Info).

Accessibility

Fully wheelchair accessible with elevators and accessible restrooms.
Service animals welcome.
Assistive listening devices available.
Contact the library ahead for specific accommodations (Newberry Accessibility).

Guided Tours

Free guided tours are offered, especially during special events such as NewberryFest.
Advance reservations are recommended for groups (NewberryFest Event).

Location and Directions

Address: 60 West Walton Street, Chicago, IL 60610
Accessible via CTA Red Line (Clark/Division) and buses 22, 36, 70 (Moovit).
Limited street parking; several public garages nearby.
Located near Washington Square Park and the Gold Coast (Choose Chicago; Travalour).

Architectural Features

Design and Style

Architect: Henry Ives Cobb, 1893
Style: Richardsonian Romanesque—massive rusticated stonework, rounded arches, minimal ornamentation
Philosophy: Emphasis on utility, economy, and a sense of lofty purpose (Newberry Library Architecture PDF; Architect Magazine).

Notable Elements

Grand Staircase: Striking stone and wood centerpiece.
Reading Rooms: High ceilings, period furnishings, and abundant natural light.
Renovations: Recent upgrades have restored historic rooms and created new public spaces, including a modern bookshop and event areas (Architect Magazine).

Grounds

Mature trees from the original Ogden homestead, survivors of the Great Chicago Fire, enhance the historic atmosphere (chicagology.com).

Collections and Exhibitions

Over 1.6 million books, 600,000 maps, 5 million manuscript pages (Chicago Studies)
Major strengths: American history and culture, Indigenous studies, local genealogy, cartography, medieval and Renaissance materials, performing arts, and more (Newberry Collection).
Notable items: Shakespeare First Folio, Grolier bindings, Prince Louis-Lucien Bonaparte linguistic collection, extensive genealogy resources (Oh My Facts).
Rotating exhibitions draw from the collections, such as “Making an Impression: Immigrant Printing in Chicago” and “Native Pop!” (Newcity Design; Newberry Events).

Public Programs and Research Services

Guided Tours: Free, bookable online, typically about an hour (Tourist Secrets).
Lectures & Workshops: Topics include genealogy, research skills, public history (Newberry Events).
Annual Book Fair: The Newberry Book Fair is a July highlight with 120,000+ used books (Newberry Book Fair).
Reader’s Card: Anyone age 14+ with a research interest can apply for on-site use of rare materials (Secret Chicago).
Digital Resources: Online catalogs and digital collections for remote research.
Reference Assistance: Expert librarians available for research support and genealogy help (Newberry Genealogy).

Amenities and Visitor Comfort

Bookshop: Open Wednesday–Saturday, selling books and gifts (Newberry Visit).
Restrooms: Accessible facilities on every floor.
Wi-Fi: Complimentary internet throughout the building.
Event Spaces: Historic rooms available for public and private events, including weddings and concerts (Secret Chicago).
Food & Drink: Not permitted in reading rooms/galleries; many cafés and restaurants are nearby.

Visitor Tips

Plan Ahead: Check the website for current hours, exhibitions, and event schedules (Newberry Visit).
Arrive Early: Popular tours and exhibitions can fill up quickly.
Bring ID: Required for reader’s cards and some collections.
Photography: Non-flash photography is allowed in most public spaces; restrictions may apply in exhibitions.
Accessibility: Contact the library for specific accommodations.
Public Transit: Recommended due to limited parking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an admission fee or ticket cost?
A: Admission and exhibitions are free. Some special programs may require registration.

Q: What are the Newberry Library’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Friday, 9:00 am–5:00 pm; Saturday, 9:00 am–1:00 pm; closed Sundays and Mondays.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, free tours are available, especially during special events. Advance booking is recommended.

Q: Can I get a reader’s card?
A: Anyone 14 or older with a research interest may apply with valid ID.

Q: Is the library accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with accessible entrances, restrooms, and assistive devices.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Non-flash photography is allowed in most public areas.

Q: Are there places to eat nearby?
A: The Gold Coast neighborhood offers many dining options close to the library.

Community Engagement and Cultural Significance

The Newberry actively collaborates with local artists, educators, and Indigenous communities, emphasizing ethical stewardship and inclusive programming. Exhibitions and public events highlight underrepresented histories and connect scholars and visitors to Chicago’s diverse heritage (Illinois Digital Heritage Hub; Newberry Indigenous Chicago).