Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Chicago Public Library (CPL) Commissioner Brian Bannon, the Chicago Public Library Foundation and BMO Harris Bank CEO Dave Casper announced significant investments in the Library’s YOUmedia program for teens. Private support, highlighted by a $1 million gift over three years from BMO Harris Bank to the Chicago Public Library Foundation, as well as generous support from Allstate, will specifically support YOUmedia programming. Due to the popular demand and heavy utilization of YOUmedia, which currently operates teen digital media labs in 12 libraries, the City of Chicago plans to expand YOUmedia to 17 library locations by 2018.

YOUmedia, a nationally recognized program, builds on young people’s interest in technology and creating by connecting them with skilled mentors to engage them in active learning in a teens-only space. The free media labs and programs use the Connected Learning model to create links between students’ academic studies, their personal passions, and opportunities to engage with peers who support and share their interests. Programs and workshops focus on career exploration, science, fashion, making, using 3D printers and laser cutters, music production, photography, animation and graphic design. At its core, YOUmedia is about helping teens explore their interests and their identity by providing them access to a production-oriented environment. An additional gift of $250,000 from Allstate to the Chicago Public Library Foundation will also support YOUmedia programming. With its partners at the Library Foundation, CPL is able to leverage private dollars to offer innovative programming citywide.