About Manning Branch

Neighborhoods Served

  • Near West Side

History

  • Manning Branch was dedicated December 10, 1994.
  • The branch is named for Mabel Manning, a community activist considered by many to be the “mayor” of the Near West Side. Manning was instrumental in a 16-point neighborhood revitalization agreement reached by the city, private developers and community residents related to the construction of the United Center.
    • The agreement resulted in the construction of the Manning Branch.

Artwork

  • Manning Branch features artwork funded through the Percent for Art Ordinance administered by the City of Chicago Public Art Program:
    • a photograph installation entitled “The Francisco Family” by Dawoud Bey
    • a painting entitled “The Magic of Moonlight” by Willie L. Carter
    • a mural “Silence License” by the artist Kay Rosen