Want to have your book and eat it … er, drink it … too?

You may know that the Free Library of Philadelphia is a public institution, funded by the City of Philadelphia, which provides for its staff and infrastructure. What sometimes surprises people is that the City works hand-in-hand with the Free Library Foundation, a nonprofit organization that raises funds to support incredible, innovative, critical programs and activities that promote literacy and enrich the cultural fabric of our city.

The Free Library Foundation works to create programs and opportunities whose proceeds directly support these programs and activities. Coming soon, you can raise a glass in support of the Free Library right on our rooftop—at the back-by-popular-demand spring rooftop beer garden!

Parkway Central Library’s pop-up beer garden, Brews & Views, returns for pop-up dates in April, May, June, and July. You are invited to enjoy drinks on the Skyline Terrace and take in spectacular views of the city on Parkway Central Library’s rooftop. The fun continues May 22, 23, 24; June 29, 30; and July 1, 2, 3. The beer garden will be open from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Local craft beers, wine, and refreshing cocktails will be available to purchase, along with a menu of snacks from Brûlée Catering, including a charcuterie and cheese plate and Bavarian pretzel sticks.

There will be entertainment every week to energize the crowd, and the street team from radio sponsor 96.5 TDY will be on site. 

Bring your friends, bring your family, or bring a book and kick back for a read on the roof with a glass in hand. No tickets are needed to attend; you must be 21+ to purchase and consume alcohol. Registration will be in the library’s main lobby, where staff will check for valid photo ID.

And if you want to support the Free Library in other ways, you can host your private social or corporate event in the beautiful Parkway Central building, apply for a passport at the Northeast Regional Library, and shop for gifts in our online shop!