Summer absolutely flew by and it’s now time to get back into a new school year. If you’re wondering how you’ll cope with all of the assignments and homework coming your way, the Free Library of Philadelphia has got you covered. From the newest graphic novels and ebooks to weekly programs and events, you’ll find resources to help with homework as well as ways to relax after a long day of school.

When you’re ready to tackle those essays and projects, the subject departments at Parkway Central Library have exactly what you need. You can speak with a librarian about what you are working on and they can hook you up with the perfect resources to impress your teachers.

Are you stressing about that AP class you signed up for this school year? Already starting to worry about taking the PSAT, SAT, or ACT? Teen Central in Philbrick Hall at Parkway Central Library is stocked with shelves full of study guides for all of those tests you’ll be taking this year. You’ll also find more than just informational books there—we have all of the newest titles you are dying to get your hands on and a large selection of comics, graphic novels, and manga. 

If you’re looking for something besides a book to glue your eyes to, you can grab a few DVDs or Blu-rays to binge watch over the weekend. Parkway Central’s Music Department can also help keep your iTunes playlists up to date with free music.

If you don’t have time to stop in, the Free Library is open 24/7 @ freelibrary.org with free ebooks for all of your devices. You can also stream movies, TV shows, and music through Hoopla, an incredible free media service through our Digital Media Portal.

Teen Central also serves as a great study space, with lots of comfortable seating and tables. You can use the computers for homework or for gaming when you need a break from all of that studying.

Speaking of taking a break, the library isn’t just for books or homework. Every day after school, students come to Teen Central just to hang out and relax. Teen Tuesday—a weekly hangout with games and snacks—is back at Parkway Central this school year. Take on your friends with one of our gaming systems or sit in on a hand of Yu-Gi-Oh or Magic: The Gathering.

In addition to Teen Tuesday, Teen Central offers After School Programs four days a week! Join us for Maker Monday and let yourself get creative with arts and crafts projects. You can stop by for the Geekscape on Wednesdays where you can talk about all of your favorite fandoms. There’s also Tabletop Thursday, where you can get your game on with RPG sessions and our expansive collection of board games!

Programs like these and other resources are also available all over the city throughout our neighborhood libraries as well. Stop in and ask your local librarian how they can help make this year a little less stressful for you and your friends. We’re here to help!