2019 has been a great year for children’s books so far. We are seeing so many own-voices books, although there is still a long way to go. Some of my favorites from the first half of the year… continue reading
By Mary W. June 18, 2019
It's not news that Philly is a great city for eating. Philadelphia is home to exceptionally exiting and delicious food, much of it celebrating the diversity of the people who call this city… continue reading
By Liz A. June 17, 2019
Our Five Senses , a new exhibition in Parkway Central Library's Dietrich Gallery opened last month, and we have the honor of sitting down with some of the authors and illustrators… continue reading
By Chris B. June 14, 2019
"A father is someone you look up to no matter how tall you grow." (unknown author) Father's Day is celebrated internationally on a variety of different dates. In the United States,… continue reading
By Susanna W. June 14, 2019
Now that summer is upon us, we hope you’ve got the Free Library on your mind! Whether you’re looking for something fun to do outside, plan to cool off at your neighborhood library… continue reading
By Kate C. June 13, 2019
Are you looking for ideas on fun things to do for Father's Day? How about cuddling with the perfect picture book? We have loads of wonderful picture books celebrating the bonds between… continue reading
By Monica C. June 12, 2019
Chera Kowalski is the Assistant to the Chief of Staff at the Free Library of Philadelphia and a participant in Cohort 1 of the Skills for Community-Centered Libraries trainings. The Skills… continue reading
By Community-Centered Libraries June 11, 2019 1
At the Free Library of Philadelphia, we know firsthand that access to books and other media can change lives. The Poetry to the People tour is dedicated to increasing such access—so… continue reading
By Clare F. June 10, 2019
The Rosenbach 's annual Bloomsday festivities will be held on Sunday, June 16, falling on Father’s Day this year! What is Bloomsday? Bloomsday is an annual event where the… continue reading
By Rosa D. June 7, 2019
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery, on June 19, 1865, when the Emancipation Proclamation was enforced by Union soldiers and the last remaining slaves were freed in Galveston Texas. To… continue reading
By Barbara B. June 6, 2019
Welcome to another Pride Month, friends! After this season of RuPaul’s Drag Race , I’m sure we're all ready to keep the amazing times rolling with more exploration of performative… continue reading
By Rachel F. June 6, 2019
This month is African-American Music Appreciation Month , a commemoration first started by former President Jimmy Carter, on June 7, 1979. The national recognition began as Black Music Month, but… continue reading
By Administrator June 5, 2019 2
Summer is in full swing: temperatures are high, days are long, school is out for break, and the Ravens are on the rooftop! Join the Raven Society, the Free Library’s community of young… continue reading
By Alexa L. June 5, 2019
Today marks the last day of classes for School District of Philadelphia teachers and students and the beginning of summer break! Most thoughts and activities will turn to the outdoors, and when… continue reading
By Peter SM June 4, 2019
Summer is finally here – and that means it’s time for another Summer of Wonder with the library! Visit your local neighborhood library or visit us online to earn prizes for reading and… continue reading
By Shari K. June 4, 2019 8
If you’ve ever lived in a city like Philadelphia, you’re familiar with falafel. The vendors on practically every corner have mastered the art of turning chickpeas into a delicious… continue reading
By Suzanna U. June 3, 2019
Are you passionate about serving diverse populations in an urban public library setting? Are you ready for all that Philadelphia has to offer? If so, than please consider this community-focused… continue reading
By Jenn D. June 3, 2019 4
National Gardening Week starts on June 2 and I, for one, will celebrate by staring obsessively at the Grandpa Ott morning glories that I planted a few weeks ago. Grandpa Ott is a gorgeous… continue reading
By Kamilah C. May 31, 2019
June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month with lots of Free Library of Pride events scheduled! We recommend these new children’s, teen, and adult fiction titles, coming to a neighborhood library near you,… continue reading
By Paul A. May 31, 2019
Take a free tour of Our 5 Senses , a fully-interactive exhibition that connects the science of the senses with the mind and the literary experience. Tours begin at 3:00 p.m.and finish at… continue reading
By Joe S. May 30, 2019