Philadelphia is a city full of the history, culture, and contributions of numerous immigrant communities. This June, join the Free Library of Philadelphia as we celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month, in partnership with the City of Philadelphia’s Office of Immigrant Affairs. This month, let’s honor the diversity of our great city and come together to celebrate and learn more about our immigrant heritages and histories.

Immigrant communities are a core part of the fabric of Philadelphia and part of the larger story of the United States. Whether it’s the food we eat, the music we listen to, the languages we speak, or the family stories that have come to define us, immigrants have made a mark on our city and we continue to build upon a legacy of resilience and community. There are many ways to celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month with the help of the Free Library’s programs, resources, and services!

The Free Library’s catalog has such a wide variety of books, films, and music for you to check out! You can also explore our book lists to find recommendations, browse our blog, and listen to the Author Events podcasts to find more content related to immigrant history and heritage.

Immigrant communities have so many beautiful languages, and if you’d like to begin your language-learning journey, check out the Library’s Languages and Learning Center. You’ll be able to find a whole host of electronic resources, as well as community resources, to support you in your learning journey. Be sure also to view the events that the Languages and Learning Center is offering throughout the entire month of June, including opportunities to practice and learn Spanish, Japanese, Mandarin, Italian, Latin, and French. You can also take part in English Language learning programs that help new Philadelphians and those hoping to practice their English improve their language skills.

The 2023 One Book, One Philadelphia season is continuing its programs and events throughout the month of June. There are programs happening throughout the city, and the finale will be happening on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at the Community College of Philadelphia. There, you’ll be able to attend a conversation with Charles Yu, the author of Interior Chinatown, and Dr. Michelle Myers, and end the season with a karaoke night at the Asian Arts Initiative!

Along with accessing the Library’s digital databases, where you can read books on BookFlix or watch films on Kanopy related to immigrant heritage, there are so many events happening across the Library system! You can attend Around the World events; participate in Spanish storytimes, including the Plátanos Are Love read-aloud event with author Alyssa Reynoso-Morris; and experience a Bollywood Dance performance. Be sure to check out the events calendar to learn more!

Whether you’ll be accessing digital resources or coming to an in-person event at a Free Library location near you, we hope that you participate in the festivities this month to celebrate the spectacular history, stories, and cultures of Philadelphia immigrant communities!