Branch libraries can be powerful community building resources, effectively enhancing the well-being and capacities of urban neighborhood residents, associations, non-profits, public institutions and businesses.  That is the central finding of a new study by Northwestern University’s Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) Institute, which reported and analyzed intensive case studies of several branch libraries in Chicago neighborhoods.  Released by the Urban Library Council at its recent Partners for Successful Cities Conference, “The Engaged Library” identifies libraries as critical community assets which strengthen and multiply the community connections which in turn contribute to making neighborhoods healthy, safe and vibrant.