Obama Square comprises the primary urban access point to the Presidential Center, but it is also an entity unto itself, envisioned as the Community Embrace.  The architectural expression here makes use of the smallest planning modules, reflecting the intimacy of the spaces in the Chicago Public Library, Arts Block Extension, and neighborhood retail.  Building heights are also limited to two stories, but floors are scaled grandly to provide a suitable level of urban containment.  The clock tower provides a traditional and timeless element, immediately communicating the public function of this sheltering environment.  At night, it provides an orienting beacon that can be seen over the surrounding streetscape from all directions.

Below the unusually peaceful and pedestrian-oriented expanse of Obama Square, a complex system of transit and support spaces is concealed from view.  These include the intermodal CTA Transfer Station, public and private utilities, seasonal storage, the secured facility service yard, emergency services, and robust employee areas.  Emergency egress from the tunnel is integrated into the secured stair towers of the complex.

The Chicago Public Library’s reading room rightfully occupies the highest occupied point on Obama Square.  Configured as a set of terraces inside the occupied tied-arch bridge, the open reading room provides individualized experiences and a sense of sanctity by virtue of its layered space.  The full-service library also contains the traditional C.P.L. elements of community meeting rooms, a YouMedia recording center, and demonstration hall.  A separate wing with dedicated security provides access to the Presidential Reading Room and its Digital Collections retrieval.