Chicago Theological Seminary

The Chicago Theological Seminary occupies a modern LEED Gold-certified building on East 60th Street with classrooms and study spaces. The Robinson & Janet Lapp Learning Commons Library holds some 45,000 books focusing on religious studies and related subjects.

Founded in 1855, this seminary was Chicago's first higher education institution. The community took part in the Underground Railroad and supported abolitionists during the decades before the Civil War.

The Robinson & Janet Lapp Learning Commons Library reflects how the community values African American religion, LGBTQ studies, and Jewish-Christian dialogue through its collection and teaching materials. You can sense these priorities woven into the daily life of the people who study here.

The building is open during weekday business hours but closes on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays except for scheduled events. Plan your visit for a weekday to explore the interior and library.

In 1902, the seminary awarded the first divinity degree to a woman in the country. This achievement in educational equality happened nearly two decades before women gained the right to vote.

Location: Chicago

GPS coordinates: 41.78571,-87.59105

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:31