Local African American History Online: Chicago Defender Archives

The Evanston Public Library is pleased to announce a new online history resource aimed at expanding the public's knowledge of local and African American history. The Chicago Defender, one of the most respected and well–known black news sources, chronicles decades of events and stories relevant to Chicago and Evanston's African American community. Now, Evanston residents have direct access to the early and mid-century Chicago Defender issues online.

The complete full text of this legendary paper, from 1910-1975, including every obituary, photo, advertisement and article, is available to any Evanston resident with a library card. To access the Chicago Defender Historical Archives from any home computer or mobile device, follow these three simple steps:

Step 1: Go to epl.org/search
Step 2: Select "Magazines/Newspapers/Journals" or "A- Z Electronic Resources" on the left hand side of the page
Step 3: Scroll down to "Chicago Defender Historical Archive"

For any questions, please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call the Reference Desk at 847-448-8630.

Mango Languages Now at EPL

Mango Languages is an online language learning system that teaches real conversation skills for practical communication in 38 different languages. As you listen to and repeat after native speakers, you'll learn more than just words and phrases. You’ll learn how those pieces can be rearranged and combined to make new thoughts and new conversations.  There are also courses in 15 different languages for those learning English as a Second Language.  Mango is accessible to anyone using a computer within the library, and accessible anywhere if you have an Evanston Public Library card. 

NEW: Online Tutoring Help!

The library has just subscribed to Brainfuse, a service which provides online tutors for a variety of subjects for students from elementary school  through college. Brainfuse also has test prep help for exams like the GRE, ACT or US Citizenship.  Anyone may access this service from computers in the library.  Patrons with a valid Evanston Public Library card can also access Brainfuse from the library's website using their own computers, at home or on-the-go.

Illinois WorkNet Center opens at the Evanston Public Library!

Job Seeker Services • Career Coaching • Computer Workshops • Computers for Job Search • Job Readiness Workshops • Job Postings • Individual Assistance

Come to the new WorkNet office on the third floor of the library to receive all these services, and more.  Illinois WorkNet is open Monday and Wednesday 10 am - 8 pm,  Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 am--6 pm. (Closed when the library is closed and on Oct. 14, Nov. 11, and Nov. 29 in 2013)  For more information contact Lugenia Crusoe at 847.448.8649 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Or visit the website at www.worknetncc.com.