One of the most popular items in the Rare Book Department that resonates with visitors the world over is not what you would expect. It is not a rare manuscript or a printed book from one of our… continue reading

By Joe S.   December 3, 2018    3

Come and learn about Philadelphia's exciting, dynamic, and often forgotten history with a free guided tour of the  Philadelphia: The Changing City exhibition. The tour will be led by… continue reading

By Joe S.   November 5, 2018   

On Friday Oct 26 from 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. , the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is throwing itself a wild block party to celebrate 100 years of culture and learning along Philadelphia’s… continue reading

By Adam F.   October 22, 2018   

October 10 marks the opening of an exhibition that analyzes Philadelphia's growth across more than three centuries, presenting more than 80 rare and revelatory prints, photographs,… continue reading

By Janine P.   October 9, 2018   

In a world of "fake news" and "alternate truths", the importance of critical thinking is more important than ever. Educators and librarians have replaced old-school teaching… continue reading

By Joe S.   September 12, 2018   

The summer is coming to a close (though someone obviously forgot to tell the weather!) and with that, several exhibitions at the Free Library will soon be winding down. Don’t worry!… continue reading

By Kate C.   September 11, 2018   

Philadelphians and people worldwide will eventually be able to view and download entire Islamic manuscripts, consisting of both images and texts, from the Free Library of Philadelphia’s… continue reading

By Joe S.   September 5, 2018   

Want to explore the outdoors? Start inside—here at the Free Library! Now through September 15, the Free Library of Philadelphia, with an exciting new exhibition and programs, is your pathway… continue reading

By Kalela W.   August 2, 2018    2

Take a deep dive into the Free Library’s resources on African American artists at The Libraries Are Appreciated , an exhibition from the Parkway Central’s Art Department . Borrowing… continue reading

By Jamie B.   April 24, 2018   

Throughout Spring and Summer, every corner of the Free Library of Philadelphia will be taking inspiration from In Our Nature: Flora and Fauna of the Americas - an exhibition taking place in our… continue reading

By Adam F.   March 27, 2018    3

Now on view at the Rosenbach,  Of Two Minds: Creative Couples in Art & History   showcases the creations of romantic couples who inspired, instructed, or even assisted one another in… continue reading

By Sara D.   March 8, 2018   

Philly Theatre Week , presented by Theatre Philadelphia, is a 10-day celeration of the artists, organizations, and audiences that have made Greater Philadelphia one of the most vibrant… continue reading

By Karin S.   February 9, 2018   

Greetings from Frozen Philadelphia! After a snowy beginning to the new year and a lot of single-digit temperatures, we're bundled up and back in the office. And as we shiver on our… continue reading

By Sara D.   January 22, 2018    1

Since  Frankenstein & Dracula: Gothic Monsters, Modern Science  opened on Friday the 13th of October, I’ve fielded a few questions from surprised visitors:  Dracula ,… continue reading

By Sara D.   November 10, 2017   

Come join us in the Rare Book Department for our newest exhibition, where you will discover a world of books big, small, round, long, clay, flat, wearable, and more! As you make your way through… continue reading

By Grace D.   November 2, 2017   

Last week was a big week over here at the Free Library – we announced the 2018 One Book, One Philadelphia featured title , marking the start of the 16th season of One Book ! So as we sit… continue reading

By Kate C.   October 25, 2017   

Over three previous concert seasons at the Parkway Central Library , veteran and up-and-coming Philly musicians have explored some questions. What has the Great Migration meant to music in… continue reading

By Perry G.   September 13, 2017   

In the autumn of 2016, we were tasked with a fascinating challenge: create a bold and welcoming exhibition that would discuss the history of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. On the surface, this… continue reading

By Laura S.   September 8, 2017   

The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is celebrating its 100th birthday ! Come celebrate with the Parkway Central Library and our Parkway neighbors ! The centennial celebration will kick off on Friday,… continue reading

By Julie B.   September 5, 2017    1

I have always been fascinated by wild animals. We are not alone in this world – we have always shared it with animals: big and small, domesticated and wild. We are surrounded by life… continue reading

By Monica C.   August 3, 2017