illi News - Chicago Public Library Kicks Off Summer Programming with Mayor Johnson's Inaugural "Summer at CPL" Block Party

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CHICAGO ~ Chicago Public Library (CPL) is gearing up for a summer full of exciting programming with the announcement of Mayor Brandon Johnson's first-ever "Summer at CPL Block Party". The event, which will take place on Saturday, June 8th from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. outside Harold Washington Library Center on Plymouth Court, is a partnership between the Chicago Public Library and the Mayor's Office.

The Summer at CPL Block Party aims to celebrate the end of the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) school year and promote summer learning at CPL. It also serves as an opportunity to activate 81 Club members and provide resources for Chicago youth in preparation for Summer 2024.

Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his excitement for the event, stating, "Our mission this summer is to support our families and our young people through engaging programming and safe spaces. I'm proud to partner with our libraries as we launch our first Summer at CPL Block Party. Music is a vital part of the cultural fabric of Chicago, and we are so excited to celebrate that legacy this summer."

The theme for this year's programming is #FindYourRhythm, encouraging Chicagoans to explore their love for music through CPL's music-themed suite of events from June to August. The lineup includes workshops, performances, and special programming from partner institutions such as Old Town School Folk Music and the Jazz Institute of Chicago.

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In addition to celebrating music, the event will also feature a resource fair with various organizations including The Mayor's Office of Community Safety (MOCS), My CHI. My Future., Something Good In Englewood, Teen & Youth Services at CPL, the Democratic National Convention Host Committee, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Chi Gives Back.

Attendees can look forward to live music from DJ Ije, a thirteen-year-old disc jockey, performances by local artists from Young Chicago Authors, and even a performance by CPL's Own Rapbrarian (rapper and librarian) Roy Kinsey.

CPL Commissioner Chris Brown emphasized the importance of the library's summer program, stating, "Chicago's youth spend countless hours reading every summer through the Chicago Public Library program. This cherished program has influenced generations of Chicagoans to develop a love for reading. This year, with the theme of 'Finding Your Rhythm,' we'll be celebrating the joy that music and libraries bring."

While enjoying the music-themed programming, youth are encouraged to continue reading and learning through CPL's educational events and programming. Families will also have access to cultural engagement opportunities, such as the Art Institute of Chicago's free family pass to the museum.

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The event has been made possible by generous sponsors including SUCCEZZ sneaker store, Me & My Bears, PepsiCo, and the Chicago Public Library Foundation.

But the fun doesn't stop there – all local CPL branches will also be celebrating the start of summer with their own programming. To find out more about CPL's summer offerings and to sign up for events, visit chipublib.org/summer or visit your local branch.

For over 145 years, Chicago Public Library has been dedicated to promoting lifelong learning by providing equal access to information, entertainment, and knowledge through innovative services, programs, and technology. With 81 locations across the city, CPL offers free access to a rich collection of materials both physical and digital. They also present high-quality author discussions, exhibits, and programs for children, teens, and adults. For more information about CPL or to stay updated on their events and programs follow them on Twitter (@chipublib), Facebook (@chipublib), or Instagram (@chicagopubliclibrary).

Filed Under: Government, City

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