Dr. Seuss wrote in Oh, the Places You'll Go, "Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened." The end of summer break may be just around the corner, but don’t feel sad! There is much to look forward to at the Free Library of Philadelphia throughout the school year, including incredible programs and services for kids, teens, and families. We’re talking about fun events and activities, cool clubs, help with homework and college applications, leadership and service opportunities, and so much more!

Check out the Library’s Calendar of Events to stay up-to-date on what’s happening at neighborhood library locations across the city, and learn more about what the Free Library has to offer for Philly students of all ages.

Afterschool Enrichment and Homework Help

The Literacy Enrichment Afterschool Program (LEAP) introduces fun, hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) projects and humanities programming to promote literacy in an inclusive, informal learning environment. Best of all, LEAP is available for K–12 students at Free Library locations during the academic year at no cost, and no registration is required! As a bonus, LEAP offers in-person homework assistance, or students can access Homework Help Online, with everything from live tutoring in core subjects to test prep and a writing lab. Visit or contact your local library for more information.

Leadership and Volunteer Opportunities for Teens

For teens looking to serve their community and gain a rewarding leadership experience, the Literacy Enrichment Afterschool Program also employs After-School Leaders and Teen Leadership Assistants to support youth learning at neighborhood libraries, and to provide an opportunity for Philly teens to engage in professional and life-skills workshops. Students in grades seven through 12 (ages 14 and up) can also help in other ways at the Free Library. Simply visit the Library’s website to browse volunteer opportunities, fill out a volunteer application, and email it to volunteer@freelibrary.org.

In addition, the Free Library provides helpful resources for students, like free wireless access for visitors during operating hours, educational databases, computer classes, The Field Family Teen Author Series, storytimes for young children, the Read, Baby, Read initiative, Read by 4th, and Book Bikes to provide mobile outreach services to schools and other places throughout the city. But first, you need to get a Free Library card!

Through the Free Library Fund and the generosity of public donors, the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation helps to ensure that Philadelphians of all ages have access to vital programming, services, and resources. We support the mission and vision of the Free Library of Philadelphia to advance literacy, guide learning, inspire curiosity, and build an enlightened community devoted to lifelong learning. We invite you to learn more about the Foundation and how you can help by following us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, and LinkedIn!

The Free Library is one of the most important educational and cultural institutions in Philadelphia. While the City of Philadelphia provides public funds for the operations of the Free Library, it is through the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation and the generosity of private funding from individuals, foundations, and corporations that the Free Library can offer many of the Library’s incredible programs and activities that advance literacy, guide learning, inspire curiosity throughout the region, and help deliver on the promise of an equitable future for all of Philadelphia’s children, families, and communities.