Free Runs + Book Discussions at Chicago Public Library This Summer
By Allison Yates
As an organization that celebrates public libraries, Read & Run Chicago is delighted to host three free meetups this July in partnership with the Chicago Public Library at three different branches across the city as part of their Summer 2025 programming focused on nature.
Hosted by Read & Run Chicago founder Allison Yates, expect an easy-paced, casual run (13:00 minute per mile +) of three miles or less followed by a book discussion. Each of the book picks were previously part of Read & Run Chicago’s programming and feature some element of nature—whether Chicago’s famed and celebrated Lakefront Trail, our many forest preserves, or urban wildlife that pop-up when we least expect them.
July 1: South Shore Library Branch
On Tuesday, July 1, we’ll be doing a three-mile, easy-paced run along Chicago’s Lakefront Trail, followed by a book discussion of Michelle Obama’s memoir Becoming back at the South Shore Library Branch.
RSVP required to celebrate Chicago’s favorite former First Lady!
Pre-reading strongly recommended. Purchase the book using the link below or borrow from your local branch of the Chicago Public Library.
July 16: Bucktown-Wicker Park Library Branch
Author Lindsay Welbers speaking to Read & Run Chicago on Northerly Island in April 2022.
On Wednesday, July 16, we’ll run three-mile, easy-paced route along The Bloomingdale Trail in the 606, followed by a book discussion of Lindsay Welbers’s Chicago Transit Hikes back at the Bucktown-Wicker Park Library Branch.
RSVP required to enjoy this rails-to-trails path and discuss the rest of the transit-friendly nature in the Chicagoland area.
Pre-reading strongly recommended. Purchase the book using the link below or borrow from your local branch of the Chicago Public Library.
July 31: Independence Library Branch
On Thursday, July 31, we’ll be doing a three-mile, easy-paced run along Elston Avenue followed by a book discussion of Jerry Sullivan’s Hunting For Frogs on Elston back at the Independence Library Branch.
RSVP required to enjoy one of Chicago’s most fascinating diagonals and celebrate the work of the late nature journalist.
Pre-reading strongly recommended. This book is available through the University of Chicago Press or from your local branch of the Chicago Public Library.