From the Archives: Reimagining Chicago: Brick by Brick
@ Harold Washington Library Center
400 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605
Opening Saturday, November 14th, from 11AM - 12PM
On view through Friday, April 30th
A new exhibit, Stories That Click: Reimagining Chicago Brick-by-Brick, opens on the 9th floor of the Harold Washington Library Center on April 3, 2026. The exhibition features LEGO models from Chicago Public Library’s call for submissions, alongside archival materials from the Special Collections Unit. The exhibit closes in April 2027.
About the Exhibit
We asked, “What exactly would your Chicago look like?” This exhibit is the answer to that question.
Displayed on the 9th floor of the Harold Washington Library Center, LEGO models are paired with historic rarities and archival materials from Chicago Public Library’s Archives and Special Collections Division creating a dialogue between past and present.
By placing the LEGO artists’ creative expressions alongside archival treasures, the exhibition highlights how storytelling, memory and imagination can shape how Chicago is seen, understood, and reimagined.
The archival materials featured in the exhibit were selected based on the artists’ stated inspirations behind their LEGO models, as well as connections drawn by the curator between the models and the collections. The exhibit has two goals: to share Chicagoans’ creative, heartfelt and fun expressions of their city and to showcase and celebrate the depth and richness of CPL’s archival collections.
Gallery Tour
Come explore the exhibit Reimagining Chicago: Brick by Brick with us in the 9th Floor Gallery of the Harold Washington Library Center. We asked, “What would your Chicago look like if it was made of LEGO Bricks?” Now it’s your turn to see the answer to that question. Join us for a guided discussion of the exhibit, followed by time to ask questions and share your thoughts.
This program is co-sponsored by the Chicago Collections Consortium.
Space is limited to 25 participants. We will admit on a first come, first served basis.
Accessibility
Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.
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Tags: Chicago, Chicago Collections Consortium., From the Archives: Reimagining Chicago: Brick by Brick, Harold Washington Library, Loop
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