Since first opening their doors in 1873, the Chicago Public Library has served all Chicagoans with free and open places to gather, learn, connect, read and be transformed. It welcomes and supports all people in their enjoyment of reading and lifelong learning. Working together, they strive to provide equal access to information, ideas and knowledge through books, programs and other resources. They believe in the freedom to read, to learn, to discover. Events include author readings and talks.