Welcome to Lillian Marrero / ¡Bienvenidos! Lillian Marrero

Lillian Marrero Library was built in 1906 with funds donated by Andrew Carnegie. Today, the library is a landmark in Central North Philadelphia and serves as an epicenter for community and children’s programming inspired by the rich Latinx cultures of the neighborhood. In 2018, the library was declared a Zone of Peace by the Religious Leaders Council of Greater Philadelphia for its work in helping to make the neighborhood safer for residents.

This episode of the Reference Desk highlights how the Free Library's Culinary Literacy programming has used food to bring residents together. This programming is especially significant since the area around Lillian Marrero is considered a food desert with limited options for healthy resources. Library staff have helped community members make better food choices as well as participate in health and fitness programs.

Watch the full interview on YouTube to learn more about the history of the Lillian Marrero Library, its culinary literacy programs, and what is in store as the library plans to reopen for in-person services.