As a dedicated Library user, you have likely interacted with the Free Library of Philadelphia on countless occasions—whether you’ve borrowed books in one of our 54 neighborhood libraries, enjoyed a story time with your family, or used the digital resources on this very website.

Might you say you are passionate about advancing literacy in as many ways as possible? If your answer is yes, did you know you also can support your beloved library and help your neighbors discover all that it has to offer?

The City of Philadelphia provides for the operation of the Free Library’s facilities and infrastructure, but many critical programs that draw people to our neighborhood libraries and foster literacy are only possible with support from generous people like you.

And, the biggest celebration of and fundraiser for everything we do at the Library is our annual black-tie gala—this year themed as the Beaux Arts Bash—at the Parkway Central Library!

Our grandest event of the year, all proceeds from the Beaux Arts Bash support the Free Library’s mission to advance literacy, guide learning, and inspire curiosity. And this year, we will be specially highlighting the Prison Services Program.

This spectacular event reflects a long tradition of closing out our year in celebration with our closest neighbors and supporters. We think it’s a fun and fabulous way to mark all we have accomplished and build excitement for the year ahead.

This year’s Beaux Arts theme pays tribute to our history on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, our boulevard magnifique, and pay tribute to Parkway Central’s splendid history of art and architecture reminiscent of turn-of-the-century France.

If you would like to participate in this special night of champagne and merriment, mark your calendars for December 9 and get your tickets today. Or just kick your heels up at the dancey Moulin Rouge After Party that immediately follows the Bash!

For a night full of high spirts and a chance to make history with us, RSVP today.