'Your City Could Be Better': How Chicago's Libraries Meet Community Needs — Presented By City Cast Philly
Where would Philadelphia be without its libraries? Chicago is opening its 82nd public library branch in June, and loaning out books is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what these institutions offer residents. City Cast CEO David Plotz talks with City Cast Chicago podcast host Jacoby Cochran about how Chicago’s libraries have evolved to meet community needs, from opening a food pantry inside a branch to turning student IDs into automatic library cards — and how they could be even better. Plus, are the Chicago Bears still the Chicago Bears if they move to Indiana?
Is there something your city is doing that we should be talking about? Email David now!
We’re also on Instagram: @yourcitycouldbebetter
Looking to advertise on Your City Could Be Better? Check out our options.
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Stay connected to City Cast Philly and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
Your Guide to June 2026 in Philly
Philadelphia is the best city to be in this summer. From FIFA Fan Fest to the Block Party Bonanza and select bars staying open until 4 a....
Rebranding the July 4th Concert, Taxing Airbnbs More Than Hotels & Getting Home Faster After a Ballgame
It’s the Friday New Roundup! Host Trenae Nuri and executive producer Matt Katz are discussing how Mayor Cherelle Parker has rebranded the...
Why Philadelphia is Hosting a TED Talk About Democracy's Future {Sponsored}
As the United States turns 250, Philadelphia, the city where modern democracy was born, is becoming the center of a global conversation a...
A Local-Only Guide to 250th Events & Opportunities
America is turning 250, and Philadelphia is going to be a playground for visitors to learn about the history of the country and the city...
Why Philly Is the Best Place To Experience the World Cup
The FIFA World Cup and Fan Festival are just weeks away. Murals are going up, bars are racing to get extended hours permits, and graffiti...
Zero-Proof & Cheap Summer Activities in Philly
The days are getting longer, and summer hangouts are on the horizon. But it can be hard to come up with meetup spots that aren't the same...
Democratic Civil War, Dirty Dentist & Alternatives to the Shore This Weekend
It's the Friday News Roundup! Executive producer Matt Katz and senior producer Abby Fritz dish on all the drama with local Democratic pol...
Who Wins Summer in the USA? Philly Makes Its Case
City Cast Twin Cities host Sean McPherson hosts this showdown where 12 City Cast reps, including City Cast Philly host Trenae Nuri, compe...
Chris Rabb, Progressive State Rep., Defeats Democratic Establishment
Results are in! The City Cast Philly team stayed up late to get the results of last night’s Democratic primary election for the Third Con...
New Holiday in Philly Is a Response to Trump Hiding History
Ona Judge was one of nine enslaved Black people forced to work and live at President George Washington’s Philadelphia home before her esc...