Newest Chicago Library Named After Former Mayor Daley

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel on Thursday helped dedicate the newest branch of the Chicago Public Library in West Humboldt Park near the corner of Kedzie and Chicago avenues. Officially named the Richard M. Daley Branch, the new library location will honor the former mayor.

Mayor Emanuel was joined by former Mayor Daley, along with Chicago Public Library Commissioner Mary A. Dempsey, Public Building Commission Executive Director Erin Lavin Cabonargi, and members of the community, to cut the ribbon at the ceremony.

The mayor spoke about Daley's legacy, especially his commitment to Chicago's libraries. Mayor Emanuel said, "Richard M. Daley's legacy and service to our city is exemplified by his commitment to helping Chicagoans learn and read, which was a cornerstone of his work as Mayor. Thanks to his unprecedented support for Chicago Public Libraries, minds have been opened, imaginations have been sparked and lives have been changed across the city."

The new building features 16,300 square feet of space and an environmentally friendly design, which was designed and built by the Public Building Commission. The branch will offer extensive reading and other library materials, including books, DVDs and magazines, in English and Spanish. It will also offer the YOUmedia program, which focuses on library materials and educational opportunities for children, ultimately creating a safe and helpful environment for children to do homework and socialize with their friends at the library.

The Chicago Tribune reported that naming the library in his honor could be the first of several naming ceremonies for the former mayor, especially after leaving behind such a large legacy. Former Mayor Daley stepped down this past spring after serving as Chicago's mayor for 22 years, the longest term for any mayor in the city. Mayor Emanuel was inaugurated into office.

The news site also noted that Daley spoke briefly at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, thanking Mayor Emanuel and emphasizing the importance of libraries in the city's communities, especially in terms of offering more education to children in Chicago. Former Mayor Daley is a large supporter of the Chicago Public Library system. During his time in office a total of 59 libraries were built throughout the city of Chicago.

According to the Chicago Sun-Times, naming the library after Daley did receive from criticism. However, Ald. Walter Burnett (28th ward) supported naming the new library branch after former Mayor Daley because with such a large and important name attached it will help the library get more resources and donations.

Rachel Bogart provides an in-depth look at current environmental issues and local Chicago news stories. As a college student from the Chicago suburbs pursuing two science degrees, she applies her knowledge and passion to both topics to garner further public awareness.