The University of Chicago Library — Attraction in Hyde Park Township

This is primarily a research library with at least 10 million books. As a long-time Hyde Park resident and retired University of Chicago staff member I have used the library for many years. Recently, however, the powers that be discontinued the recall-a-book-that-is-checked-out option. You used to be able to recall a book and it would be held out at the checkout desk. Now you cannot do that. You have to wait until the patron gets around to returning the book, which could be years, because it is easier to electronically renew books than return...

Because I'm not a University of Chicago student, I can only review the Special Collections department, which I have visited several times while researching the history of Shimer College. The Regenstein is a fantastic place to do archival research. The staff are extremely helpful and professional, and the reading room is very well-appointed, with book cradles and tripods available for those who need them.

(The fact that the library stacks are closed to outsiders is my only reason for giving this superb institution...

Beautiful place to get some work done - FYI this is NOT intended to be a public space - you must be accompanied by a UChicago student when you check in unless other accommodations are made - understand that you will not have your own WiFi access so you may have to use hot spot. The space itself is a mesmerizing wonder to be in, and is worth visiting...