Harold Washington Library Center

It's not always simple to stand out from the throng and create an imprint on Chicago's famous skyline. But the Harold Washington Library hasn't had any trouble accomplishing that. The Chicago Public Library's main branch has nine levels filled with books, computer laboratories, meeting spaces, and other amenities.

On the ninth level, you may visit the library's exhibit hall to see art on show, take in the Winter Garden's skylights, or visit the modest Harold Washington Museum to see items relating to the building's namesake. But the decoration does more than merely adorn the building's façade. In addition, the Harold Washington Library needs your attention for a useful reason.

It intends to tell a tale in a brazenly Postmodern way. Numerous symbols that express the building's purpose, celebrate its setting, and honor its forebears in architecture are amusingly displayed throughout the structure. Some people may claim that you can read it like a book.

Location: 400 S State St, Chicago
Web: http://chipublib.org/
Ticket: Free
Opening time: Mon–Thu 9am–9pm; Fri, Sat 9am–5pm; Sun 1–5pm