This year has been full of meaningful milestones not only for the Free Library, but for the entire city of Philadelphia. Notably, our boulevard magnifique, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, is celebrating its 100th birthday! The Parkway Central Library and our Parkway neighbors have been marking the occasion with exhibitions, events, community conversations, and promotions up and down the Parkway, which will continue through November 2018.

The Free Library has showcased this special anniversary with a special exhibition, on display at Parkway Central: Corridor of Culture: 100 Years of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. This exhibition honors the Free Library’s home on the grand avenue. Connecting Philadelphia’s City Hall with the entrance to Fairmount Park and linking the heart of the city to the natural wonders of Pennsylvania, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is an icon of this city.

Corridor of Culture—which is made possible through a grant from the Independence Foundation—features photographs, artwork, and memories of the creation and use of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway over the last century. It explores moments from the history of the Parkway, touching on examples of the art, faith, science, and community that reside together on Philadelphia’s grand corridor of culture.

Looking for other ways to celebrate the Parkway’s centennial? Join us at the 2018 Family Event on April 21, from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.—and bring the whole family! This very special fundraising event at the Parkway Central Library supports the Free Library while giving children and families a unique experience in the iconic Beaux-Arts building.

There will be something for everyone to enjoy, including Philadelphia-themed art projects, games, storytelling with favorite librarians, a scavenger hunt, a dinner buffet with kid-friendly food and adult-friendly beverages, and—of course—plenty of books. All funds raised will support the Free Library’s mission to advance literacy, guide learning, and inspire curiosity for Philadelphians of all ages and backgrounds. We can’t wait to celebrate the Free Library, and our city’s history, with you!

View more information about the 2018 Family Event, and for more information about the Parkway100 year-long celebration, visit parkway100.org.