The City of Philadelphia provides public funds for the operations of the Free Library, considered one of the most important educational and cultural institutions in the city.

However, many of the incredible resources, programs, and services offered to millions across the city would not be possible without the support of the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation and the generosity of individuals and organizations who donate to the Free Library Fund. This includes Author Events, the Literacy Enrichment Afterschool Program (LEAP), Read by 4th, Summer of Wonder, the Culinary Literacy Center, the Business Resource and Innovation Center (BRIC), and so much more!

Here are some frequently asked questions to help clarify who we are, what we do, and how you can help us continue to "advance literacy, guide learning, and inspire curiosity" at Free Library locations throughout Philadelphia:

What is The Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation and how does it differ from the Library?

The Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation (also known as the Free Library Foundation, or simply the Foundation) is a separate entity that directly serves the Free Library by filling the gap in services that make a difference in Philadelphia and beyond. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization with our own dedicated Board of Directors working tirelessly to support the vital mission of the Free Library through philanthropic means. To learn more about our work, we invite you to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, and LinkedIn.

What are the programs supported by the Foundation?

Through the Free Library Fund, the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation ensures that Philadelphians of all ages, stages, and abilities have access to life-changing programming and resources in their communities, including:

• Author Events
• Business Resource and Innovation Center (BRIC)
• Exhibitions
• Culinary Literacy Center
• Languages and Learning
• Literacy Enrichment Afterschool Program (LEAP)
• Literacy in Early Learning Spaces
• One Book, One Philadelphia
• Read, Baby, Read
• Read by 4th
• Special Collections
• Summer of Wonder
• Workforce Development

How can I support the Library and the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation?

When you support the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation you show your love for the Free Library! There are as many ways to help us sustain our collective mission as there are reasons to give. This includes membership opportunities, gifts of cash (online or by check or credit card), stocks and wire transfers, planned charitable giving, corporate giving, tribute gifts in memory of someone special, in-kind gifts of goods and services, and matching gifts through employers to double your impact. All gifts to the Free Library Fund are tax deductible. If you have additional questions or would like to donate over the phone, you can reach us by email at giving@freelibrary.org or by calling 215-567-7710. Thank you!

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.