Fox Chase Library
PLEASE NOTE: The Fox Chase Library is closed until further notice, due to building cooling issues. We have canceled or rescheduled events up until 8/12. We will update social media when we know more. All of our holds have been redirected to Welsh Road Library at 9233 Roosevelt Blvd. Saturday hours have been changed to the Bustleton Library at 10199 Bustleton Avenue.
If you have any questions or concerns that the open branches cannot answer, please contact either: Northeast Regional Library (offices) 215-685-0502 or the Free Library call center 1-833-TALK FLP (825-5357). If you would prefer text over a phone call, please utilize the Ask A Librarian feature on the website at https://libwww.freelibrary.org/contact/.
Upcoming Events
Adult Gel Coloring
Join us for some basic instruction, idea sharing, coordinated projects, and good company. No experience necessary. Intended for adults. 12:15-1:30 PM. Sponsored by the Friends of Fox Chase…
Science in the Summer
Science in the Summer Let’s explore space! Join us for GSK’s Science in the Summer program! This program is for children entering 2nd through 6th grades. Registration is…
Movement Mornings
Join us for chair yoga or Tai Chi on Friday mornings to start your weekend off!
Science in the Summer
Science in the Summer Let’s explore space! Join us for GSK’s Science in the Summer program! This program is for children entering 2nd through 6th grades. Registration is…
About
We are now open Monday and Tuesday 11 am - 7 pm; Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 10 am - 5 pm. Please check our social media for updates and program information!
If you are interested in our monthly newsletter, please sign up at: http://eepurl.com/iP-2dE
History
The Fox Chase area was originally settled by Swedes who sailed up the Pennypack Creek around 1645 and built a blockhouse as protection against the Lenni Lenape Indians. English colonists later took over the settlement and the blockhouse, which became part of a large country residence named the Ury House. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and John James Audubon were entertained there.
Fox Chase Hotel, built in the 18th century, was a favorite gathering place for fox hunters. By the 19th century, the area was full of farms and summer estates, becoming a part of Philadelphia in 1854.
In October 1951, volunteers and members of the Fox Chase Civic League renovated the first floor of an old school building at Rhawn and Jeanes streets for a library. However, by the mid-60's, the library had outgrown the old building. Half the books were stored away and there was only enough room for a few tables and chairs.
The Friends of the Fox Chase Library worked hard to get a new library put in the city's capital budget. In 1967, the old school was torn down and a trailer provided temporary library service. All the effort paid off on August 26, 1968 when the new library opened. The branch was renovated in 1999 as part of the "Changing Lives" campaign, which refurbished branch libraries and brought Internet access to every library.
When you visit the library, take a look at the garden. You'll find "The Three Bears," a stone sculpture by artist and author George Papashvily.