Manage your library account, search the catalog, and discover new titles. Track borrowed items, place holds, and find events. Use your digital library card for in-person checkouts.
Chicago Public Library by City of Chicago






208+ iOS apps curated and reviewed
Looking for free chicago public library apps? 20 of our 208+ tracked titles are free to download — no subscription, no trial. The rest are premium picks worth paying for.






Manage your library account, search the catalog, and discover new titles. Track borrowed items, place holds, and find events. Use your digital library card for in-person checkouts.






Access millions of free ebooks and audiobooks from your local library. Borrow titles instantly with your library card, download for offline enjoyment, and enjoy a customizable reading and listening experience.






Report non-emergency issues like potholes or graffiti directly to Chicago city services. Track the status of your requests, submit photos, and get real-time updates on city work in your neighborhood. This official app connects residents and businesses to essential city services.


Listen to Chicago's NPR news station live or on-demand. Access local and national news, podcasts, and investigative journalism from WBEZ and its partners. Catch up on missed shows with rewind functionality.


Access your library account, search a vast catalog, and manage holds and renewals. Download ebooks and audiobooks directly to your device. This app connects you to a consortium of public, academic, school, and special libraries in the Chicagoland area.


Borrow library items on campus using your phone's camera. This app allows University of Chicago Library users to quickly and conveniently check out books and other materials without needing to visit the circulation desk.


Manage your public transit fares and tickets for Chicago's CTA, Metra, and Pace services. Load value, buy Metra mobile tickets, and access real-time arrival information all in one place. Add your Ventra Card to your iPhone for seamless travel.


Manage your library account and discover new content. Borrow physical items, access eBooks and audiobooks, and receive helpful reminders. Personalize your reading experience and stay organized with this intuitive library companion.


Stay connected with Chicago's vibrant sports scene. Engage in discussions and debates about local teams with popular hosts. Experience the pulse of one of the nation's most talked-about sports cities.


Navigate Chicago's public transit system with real-time updates for CTA buses and trains, Metra schedules, and Pace connections. Plan your trips with step-by-step directions, receive alerts for your stop, and access offline maps for seamless travel.


Discover the best of city living with this comprehensive guide to dining, shopping, and culture. Enjoy insightful interviews and expert recommendations for navigating urban life. Read offline, bookmark articles, and even listen to content on the go.


Manage your library account on the go. Search the catalog, renew borrowed items, and place holds on new books directly from your mobile device.


Access breaking news, in-depth investigations, and local sports coverage from Chicago. Stay updated on city politics, entertainment, and opinion pieces. Subscribers can also access the digital edition of the print newspaper.


Streamline common library tasks for student workers and staff. This app simplifies workflows for checking items in/out, managing locations, inventory, and searching catalogs. It enhances efficiency and accuracy in library operations.


Access your library's catalog, reserve items, and manage your account on the go. View upcoming events, access digital library cards, and explore online learning resources. Stay connected with your local library's services and information.


Manage your library account on the go. Browse the catalog, reserve and renew items, pay fines, and discover new arrivals. Access digital content and use your device as a library card.


Access the library's extensive catalog of books, DVDs, audiobooks, and more. Manage your account to check due dates, renew items, and reserve meeting rooms. Discover free events, download digital content, and stream movies.


This app provides real-time transit information for Chicago's 'L' trains and buses. It features a smart route planner, offline maps, and nearby station navigation to help you travel efficiently. Get essential details like train times, fares, and station facilities.


Access an exact digital replica of The Daily Herald newspaper on your iPad or iPhone. Enjoy comprehensive local and regional news, sports, business, and more with the convenience of a digital format.


Manage your library experience on the go. Search the catalog, reserve items, and track your checkouts and holds. Discover library events, access learning resources, and find hours and locations.