From the historic Rookery Building’s marble corridors to the Gothic grandeur of Harper Library, Chicago’s study spaces blend architectural magnificence with scholarly tranquility. The Windy City’s academic havens offer peaceful retreats from the Loop’s bustling energy.
Whether seeking the Drawing Room’s leather armchairs at the Chicago Athletic Association or the Harold Washington Library Center’s quiet reading rooms, each location carries its own distinct character. The Newberry Library and Regenstein Library round out these storied Chicago institutions.
Discover your perfect Loop study spot below!
Featured Study Spots in Chicago
- Regenstein Library
- Harper Library
- Harold Washington Library Center
- Drawing Room at the Chicago Athletic Association
- Newberry Library
- The Rookery Building
- The Study Chicago
Library in Chicago
Harold Washington Library Center
What to Expect
Winter Garden study area
Description
The Harold Washington Library Center offers extensive study spaces across multiple floors, including quiet areas and group study rooms. It features a Winter Garden with natural light, free WiFi, and access to a wide range of resources such as books, media, and assistive technology. The library also includes a Maker Lab with 3D printing capabilities and music practice rooms.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Harold Washington Library Center
Harper Library
What to Expect
Collegiate Gothic Architecture
Description
Harper Memorial Library is a historic study space offering a unique blend of architectural charm and modern amenities. It features the third-floor reading room and Common Knowledge Café, providing an ideal environment for both independent and group study. The library's distinctive collegiate gothic style and its role as a former main library make it a notable location for academic pursuits.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Harper Library
Newberry Library
What to Expect
Extensive humanities collection
Description
The Newberry Library is an independent research library specializing in the humanities, offering a vast collection of books, maps, and manuscripts. It provides a quiet and focused environment for study, with reading rooms and exhibition galleries available for researchers. The library's unique collections include American Indian and Indigenous Studies, American history, and Chicago and the Midwest, making it an ideal location for in-depth academic research.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Newberry Library
Regenstein Library
What to Expect
Brutalist architecture with extensive collections
Description
Regenstein Library is the University of Chicago's primary library, offering a vast collection of over 4.5 million print volumes. It features a unique brutalist architecture with a large reading room and group study spaces across multiple floors. The library houses the Special Collections Research Center, providing access to rare books and manuscripts. Its design includes separate areas for stacks and reading rooms, optimizing book conservation and study environments.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Regenstein Library
Other Study Locations in Chicago
Drawing Room at the Chicago Athletic Association
What to Expect
Historic library setting
Description
The Drawing Room offers a sophisticated atmosphere with intricate woodwork and a historic library, providing a quiet and elegant space. It features semi-private areas, including a library and grand fireplace, suitable for focused study sessions. The room is open 24 hours daily, allowing flexibility for study sessions.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Drawing Room at the Chicago Athletic Association
The Rookery Building
What to Expect
Historic Light Court
Description
The Rookery Building is a historic landmark in Chicago's financial district, known for its unique blend of architectural styles and innovative design. Completed in 1888, it features a stunning light court and intricate ironwork. While not traditionally a study location, its grand atrium and historic significance make it an inspiring backdrop for contemplation and reflection.
Where: Chicago | More Info: The Rookery Building
The Study Chicago
What to Expect
Campus-adjacent accommodations
Description
The Study at University of Chicago offers a conducive study environment with its modern amenities and proximity to the university campus. It features a British-style tavern, a fitness center, and meeting spaces, making it suitable for both academic and professional activities. Guests can enjoy views of the campus through floor-to-ceiling windows, providing a scholarly atmosphere.
Where: Chicago | More Info: The Study Chicago
Site Language: