Whitman Library
We are now open to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:00-4:00 p.m. for in-person services including browsing, holds pickup, computer access, printing, and copying.
Library staff are unable to provide computer assistance due to social distancing guidelines.
Masks covering nose and mouth are required to enter the building and must be worn for your entire visit. There is reduced capacity (12 patrons inside at a time) and hand sanitizer is located at the entrance and at various points throughout the library. Children under 10 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult.
Curbside holds pickup is still available by appointment on Mondays and Wednesdays if you prefer to get your holds without coming inside. Call us at 215-685-1754 or email SolomonR@freelibrary.org to schedule.
All returns must be made in the book drop box, which is located outside our front door and open 24/7 for your convenience.
2020 Federal Tax Forms have arrived! We've put them on a cart right outside the front door (available Monday-Friday 10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) Please take what you need! Like last year, libraries were not given PA state forms to distribute. You may call 1-888-PATAXES (1-888-728-2937) to place an order for state forms.
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | By Appointment |
| Tuesday | 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
| Wednesday | By Appointment |
| Thursday | 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
| Friday | By Appointment |
| Saturday | Closed |
Upcoming Closures
- Fri., Apr. 2 : Closed Good Friday
- Sun., Apr. 4 : Closed Easter
- Mon., May. 31 : Closed Memorial Day
- Sat., Jun. 19 : Closed Juneteenth
Services By Appointment
Services
- Book Drop
- Materials / Holds Pick Up
- Browse Shelves
- Reference Services
- Wi-Fi
- Computer Use
Facilities
- Bicycle rack
- Handicapped accessible
- Street parking (free)
- Book drop box
- Computers for public use
- Photocopier (black/white)
Upcoming Events
Intermediate English Virtual Classes
Join us for a FREE Intermediate English class online, taught by graduate students in the University of Pennsylvania TESOL program. 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays and…
Intermediate English Virtual Classes
Join us for a FREE Intermediate English class online, taught by graduate students in the University of Pennsylvania TESOL program. 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays and…
Intermediate English Virtual Classes
Join us for a FREE Intermediate English class online, taught by graduate students in the University of Pennsylvania TESOL program. 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays and…
About
Serving the diverse communities of Whitman and Pennsport, this neighborhood library is located on Snyder Avenue between 2nd Street and S. Philip Street. It is close to several shopping areas, including Snyder Plaza and Whitman Plaza, I-95, and Columbus Boulevard.
History
The neighborhood of Whitman and its library branch derive their names from the nearby Walt Whitman Bridge. In 1854, the community was included in what was then Passyunk Township. It was marshland, and many of the inhabitants raised pigs. The area south of Moore and between the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers was known as "the Neck."
Growing out of European customs, the famous Philadelphia Mummers originated in the Neck. "Neckers" formed social clubs and visited each other in pop-in style and dressed in outlandish costumes for the fun of it. Out of this grew the "pea-shooters" who shot in the New Year.
The first official city parade was sponsored in 1901. Every year on New Year's Day, mummers dressed in elaborate costumes strut their stuff down Broad Street and later on 2nd Street or "Two Street." Mummery is particularly associated with Two Street, where a number of Mummers clubs are located.
The Whitman Branch of the Free Library opened on January 24, 1977. The library was renovated in 2000 as part of the "Changing Lives" campaign, which refurbished branches and brought Internet service.
When you visit the library, look in the meeting room to see scenes of South Philadelphia painted by well-known Philadelphia watercolorist Howard N. Watson.