# Chicago Public Library Foundation

Chicago Public Library Foundation is an Endowment / Foundation based in Chicago, United States.

## Overview

- **Organization type:** Endowment / Foundation
- **Headquarters:** Chicago, United States
- **Region:** North America
- **Address:** Chicago, Illinois, United States
- **Founded:** 1986
- **Assets under management:** Undisclosed
- **Website:** cplfoundation.org
- **LinkedIn:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicagopubliclibraryfoundation

## Regulatory record

- **Reports private funds:** No

## About

The Chicago Public Library Foundation was established in 1986 by Cindy Pritzker. It operates as a standalone nonprofit that supplements the Chicago Public Library with private support. The foundation directs capital toward programs, technology upgrades, and special collections. Confirmed partners include The Chicago Community Trust and the MacArthur Foundation. Investments cover the library's physical footprint across Chicago and extend to digital access initiatives. Geographic scope remains confined to the city and its branch network. The organization lists no disclosed AUM or professional headcount. It maintains an office lease at 200 W. Madison St. and holds an endowment alongside cash equivalents. A 2026 transition followed the death of former President & CEO Brenda Langstraat Bui. The foundation participates in the Chicago Collections Consortium and United for Libraries. Its legal form as an independent 501(c)(3) creates a clear separation between donor capital and city operations. This setup allows targeted allocation to non-tax-funded items while preserving public governance of the library itself.

## Sectors

- Education

## People

- Cindy Pritzker — Chairman Emerita
- Michael Fassnacht — Board Chair
- Bob Wislow — Life Director
- Brenda Langstraat Bui — Former President & CEO

## Questions

### Who runs investment decisions at Chicago Public Library Foundation?

The board, chaired by Michael Fassnacht, oversees allocation of endowment assets. Day-to-day decisions fall to staff leadership.

### How does Chicago Public Library Foundation source proprietary deal flow?

Capital deployment occurs through direct grants and program support rather than external deal sourcing.

### Does Chicago Public Library Foundation participate in fund commitments or only direct deals?

Activity centers on direct program funding and endowment management within Chicago.

## Related profiles

- [Chicago Poland Ventures](https://altss.com/profile/chicago-poland-ventures)
- [Chicago Venture Partners](https://altss.com/profile/chicago-venture-partners)

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Last updated: 2026-06-03T20:00:00.000Z

Canonical page: https://altss.com/profile/chicago-public-library-foundation

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