Business Details
Your Trusted Community Resource for Education & Culture
As a cornerstone of community education and cultural enrichment, we have dedicated ourselves to providing equitable access to knowledge, resources, and lifelong learning opportunities. Founded to serve the diverse needs of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, our mission extends beyond traditional library services to include innovative programs like the MakerSpace, homework assistance, and literacy initiatives. Through strategic partnerships with organizations such as The Library Foundation, Friends of the Public Library, and Anderson Township Library Association, we amplify our impact by leveraging private support to complement public funding. Our commitment to modernization is evident in digital resources like Libby, LinkedIn Learning, and Kanopy, which ensure 24/7 access to educational content. We prioritize community engagement through events ranging from author talks to cultural celebrations, including our annual Native American Heritage Month programming.By maintaining physical spaces for collaboration and quiet study alongside virtual services, we cater to patrons of all ages and backgrounds. Transparency in operations and fiscal responsibility guide our stewardship of public trust, as demonstrated by our adherence to nonprofit governance standards. With over $3 million in private support over the past decade, we continue expanding access to critical services while preserving historical collections and local archives. Our workforce development resources and job search assistance reflect our dedication to economic empowerment, while youth programs foster early literacy and STEM education. Through continuous adaptation to technological advancements and community needs, we remain a vital institution for information, innovation, and connection.
Services
Library Cards
Research Databases
Meeting Rooms
Digital Media
Homework Help
Book Donations
Career Resources
Cultural Events
Local History Archives
Technology Lending
Highlights and features
- We offer free access to 16,000+ online courses through LinkedIn Learning
- Our MakerSpace provides cutting-edge technology for public use
- We maintain extensive local history and genealogy collections
- Our staff provides expert research assistance through Homework HelpNow
- We host over 10,000 annual events including author talks and cultural programs
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) organization
Services
Digital Media Access
Our digital collection provides 24/7 access to eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, and streaming media through platforms like Libby and Kanopy. Patrons can access thousands of titles using just their library card. This service supports remote learning and entertainment for all ages.
Research Databases
We offer free access to 100+ subscription databases covering genealogy, job search, health information, and academic research. These resources include exclusive content not available through standard internet searches, available both in-library and remotely.
MakerSpace
Located at the Downtown Main Library, our MakerSpace provides public access to 3D printers, laser cutters, and design software. This innovation hub supports entrepreneurship, STEM education, and creative projects with staff assistance available.
Homework HelpNow
Live online tutoring is available daily for K-12 students through Homework HelpNow. Certified tutors assist with math, science, writing, and test preparation in multiple languages, supporting academic success after school hours.
Community Events
We host over 10,000 annual events including author talks, cultural celebrations, job workshops, and children's programming. Most events are free and open to the public, with both in-person and virtual options available.
Questions
How do I get a free library card?
Visit any branch with ID and proof of address to register, or start online at chpl.libnet.info/getacard.
What digital resources are available?
Access Libby for eBooks, LinkedIn Learning for courses, Kanopy for streaming media, and 100+ research databases.
Can I donate books to the library?
Yes, Friends of the Library accept gently used book donations at their Hartwell store and branch locations.
Are meeting rooms available for public use?
Reserve study rooms and meeting spaces online or through branch staff for free community use.
What programs are available for children?
We offer storytimes, STEM activities, summer learning programs, and homework help for K-12 students.
How is the library funded?
We receive public funding through Hamilton County and private support from foundations, friends groups, and donors.