The Chicago Library Coalition is a grassroots organization focused on keeping the Chicago Public Library fully funded, staffed, and functioning to meet the needs of the people and city it serves. 

It was formed in reaction to the draconian budget cuts proposed to the Chicago Public Library in October, 2011. At that time, Chicagoans came together in unprecedented numbers to advocate for their public library, working with their aldermen, contacting City Hall, and spreading the word. Twenty-eight aldermen wrote a joint letter to the mayor, protesting the disproportionate cuts to the library. The budget cut was eventually reduced from $10 million to $7 million. Despite the continued outcry, the revised budget would pass, and those still disproportionate cuts would force the massive layoff of employees in 2012 and a reduction of hours. These new cuts only compounded the budget reduction that took place in 2010.

The Chicago Library Coalition is working to restore funding to 2009 levels and to see that the Chicago Public Library remains a world-class institution, serving the needs of all Chicagoans.