Parkway Central Library

Phenomenal library! I was a tourist but I decided to stop by because I love libraries. There was great art and I loved how everything was arranged. The staff was eager to help. I happened to pass by some sort of program to connect seniors and I thought that was nice.

We love a library. The only thing is that the 3rd floor closes at 5, but there’s no mention of that (that I can find) online. Even someone at the desk downstairs wasn’t aware of the 5pm closing time for the 3rd floor.

A fabulous resource, an incredible building, and its free. An amazing selection of books, music, scores, videos, and even instruments. The staff are very friendly and helpul. If an item is not on the shelves you can reserve it for later pick up. There are also extensive exhibits around the building of art works and other items of interest. Do not miss the 3rd floor exhibits in the rare books section. There are free tours of the building and many community resources. Philadelphia is lucky to have such a resource that has been established for so long.

I visited this library today, and boy is it beautiful! I was just walking around the city and stopped in. The librarian in the adult section was extremely nice and helpful. Very clean, Quiet cozy, and spacious! Most people were friendly and welcoming, however some weren’t so friendly! They didn’t greet upon arrival, they were on their devices so they didn’t look up, and the sense of direction was a little off. I’ll be back 📚🩵📖

Beautiful architecture that inspires a relaxing day of reading and scholarly pursuit. However, not the most modern furniture and not the most comfortable if you plan to spend hours. Definitely a place to see at least once. You won’t find another public library like this.

This is one of my favorite places to go when I don’t have work! Everyone that works here is so friendly and knowledgeable; from the security guards to the librarian. The librarians will give you suggestions of what to read next based on authors you enjoy. They are always so helpful when locating items for me. If I could go everyday and hangout here, I would!

A pretty extensive collection, professional staff, people generally friendly. A lot of community resources. The Author Series includes impressive guests (Pinker, Wilson, Sotomayor, and others), Tickets are only $5. Occasional beaurocracy (or overzealous volunteer?) does occur. I came to an event with a ticket, but a man at the door ignored the ticket and for several minutes demanded to know my last name, which was supposed to be "on the list." For a public lecture, half-full? Give a guy a clipboard, and he is the lord of the hallway!

The classic architecture makes the library & other Philly buildings.landmarks. Huge rooms & a grand staircase. The hand tolled chimes ring 20 minutes before closing is really cool. I think it's worth a visit to see & hear the chimes. My favorite part is the short story dispenser at the main exit

Y'all, this place has Charles Dickens' actual writing desk. We entered this beautiful building, mouths agape in wonder. One of the security guards told us to head straight up to the 3rd floor -- he compared it to a small museum full of rare things. Intrigued, we took his advice. So glad we did! We happened upon the free guided tour of the Rare Book Department, and spent the next hour happily being shown treasures such as books with special bindings, books with gold leaf, the taxidermied raven named Grip which inspired Edgar Allan Poe's famous work, and yes, Charles Dickens' desk, complete with his scratched-on initials. Later, we came across a giant shoe in one of the reading rooms. This place is fantastically magical. Love the Free Library of Philadelphia.

A wonderful lecture and book signing event with American cartoonist for The NewYorker ROZ CHAST. Lots of giggles being guided through her mini life history and mostly on her latest project regarding her hilarious dreams. It was a sweet auditorium, seating was nice, audio and visuals were fine. Such a DELIGHTFUL program.

This library is stunning. On a recent visit to Philly, we were at the Rocky steps and then our friend told us the library was nearby so we were like "let's go check it out!" We did come right before closing, so we didn't have an experience of actually going to the library to study or WFH or something, although we did get the chance to walk around the first and second floor and was told some history and the layout of the library by the staff working there. We were so impressed by how big and clean the library was, and also couldn't help but notice all the stunning architecture and art. There's different reading rooms and places to check out and walking through it made me want to just sit and read something!

It is a beautiful central library. Borrowing books: can self-renew I think up to 6 times. could also reserve books to borrow. there are no charge penalties if you renew late/ return materials late; only that your card will be suspended until you do. can also borrow electronic copies of books, etc. There are many categories here from children's to teens/ young adult to science to rare collections. To reserve their study rooms: time limit of 2 hrs; may stay as long as there are no reservations after you need ID to reserve cannot self-reserve online. have to be in-person/ over the phone they host events on public education, fun topics, health, etc. there are also games to rent out during your time here. Signing up for a library card is free and easy. I believe you can use your library card to get into/ get discounts for various attractions around Philly if you're a Philly resident. public bathrooms no complimentary parking, unfortunately, because it's in Center City Philly :(

When it's 90 degrees outside, it's 105 in the van and that's just uncomfortable. I can't work in that sort of heat, so as I have been driving around this summer, I have been skipping from public library to public library for a quiet and cool place to work. The Free Library of Philadelphia is cool (temperature-wise) and cool (aesthetically). I arrived just before opening and found a parking space on the street where I felt safe enough leaving the van. A 12 hour metered spot for $20. The library opened right on time at 9am and I was through the door with a few others who were also looking for a quiet spot out of the heat. The library has stacks and stacks like any library but also a rare books room and an art gallery and big beautiful spaces with tables. Some of the tables have power outlets or power strips and some do not. I secured one next to a dehumidifier where I plugged in and got comfy. So why just four stars? The library is free but the Internet is not. You need a library card to access their internet and since I'm not a Philadelphia resident, I don't qualify. So I spent the day in the library working, but doing so from the hotspot on my phone. And even if I did have a library card, the whole point of a free library isn't just that it is no cost. It's also that it's free and untracked, i.e., that's liberty. If I'm logging in to the system, my name, address and websites I visit are being logged. Even though I have nothing to hide, I want a higher level of privacy. [Review 17769 overall - 570 in Pennsylvania - 1290 of 2022.]

Wonderful library full of artistic and literary gems on every floor. Will be back to check out other collections!

The library is not open contrary to what the website says! The strike is still going on

Opened in 1927, this is the Free Library of Philadelphia's largest location. Inside a beautifully designed building, free building tours are offered most days. It's a library and the thousands of books are housed in grand halls worth looking at. They have a rare book collection, free wifi and tons to read and see! It's also close to many museums like the Barnes Foundation.

I thought I had done this review already but apparently not. I stopped in to get my library card yesterday and ended up unexpectedly getting a tour of the building. I had visited prior to that time but this time was extra special since I was able to receive an in-depth overview of the library and its history. There are several floors to it and they offer not just books, but lecture series, workshops, culinary classes, have a Children's Center/Library area, and music instrument rentals. I was floored. Truly. They also have event spaces and a rooftop area that hosts beer garden events. Not that I'm too into beer but it's still nice to know that they offer other things in addition to book rentals. What I found resourceful was the The Heim Center and business area. There's an area where you can reserve study spaces or even get assistance with job searches or other community happenings. It feels like this library is like a community staple/resource hub. Plus each floor has books from different genres like there's history, horticulture, fashion, music, geography, pop culture, film, politics, theater. You could spend hours in there just pulling boom after book and never be bored. At least that's the case for me. I also received a great tour offered by Jackie. You can tell she's a veteran librarian and tour guide and Curtis was just as amicable. I'm glad he told me about the tour. I already signed up for the TypeWriter series and the Sewing classes happening on Wednesdays. My aunt would be proud as she's an avid sewer (well into her 90's) and I always told her I wanted to learn so why not? If you're looking for something different and perhaps wish for an area for quiet time or study time or enhance your knowledge, I highly recommend you take a stop in to this place. The architecture is just breathtaking, especially the marble steps and the fact that it offers so many things, I think one would be foolish not to register for a library card there. Plus, it's free. What more could you ask for?

I stopped in at the Free Library of Philadelphia today when I was museum hopping in the area. It's a pretty building, and they have temporary exhibits in some gallery areas of the library. Not the grandest main library branch I've visited but worth a stop in if you like architecture or libraries!

My mother instilled in me a love for libraries. She took us to our local library every week growing up and since I moved to Philadelphia I come this library all the time. First off, the building is beautiful! Even if you don't read you should come check out the building. I always have a lot of books checked out of the library. It is easy to reserve them online and they hold them for almost 2 weeks so you have time to come get them. You are then allowed to have the book for 3 weeks - but it is easy peasy to get online and renew if you don't finish reading in time. They have a book drop out back that you can use when the library is closed. (actually you can use if when it is open too - the little street is closed to cars during the day tho) My only complaint - they cut the hours way back since covid. They no longer are open on weekends - and they close at 5 now during the week - so it is super hard to get here if you work during day time hours.

So proud to live in the city where the very first public library (free, no subscription fee) EVER in the United States was created. I'm continually moved by the legacy left by the founders and first citizens of Philadelphia. And the library is no exception. In one line, the collection here is unbelievable. Gallery after gleaming and grand high-ceilinged gallery of special collection, available to you for study and review, for free. No doubt that today, the Philadelphia founders would be be shunned as flaming-left big-government tax-and-spend (or whatever insert-here hateful adjective the right is weaponizing today) liberals. I'm reminded of Will Hunting's "Don't Do That" $150k-tuition Harvard-mocking monologue that ends with "coulda done it for $1.50 in late charges at the public library." Except that this library does not charge late fees!! And you can renew 10 times for three weeks each. With a hyper-local branch likely at the end of your block, the entire city-wide collection is available to you to order, pick up and return at your convenience. Speaking of hyper, I'm also nostalgic about libraries of this scale because in 1991 it was where I first experienced HTML. My state university (where resident tuition was $600 per semester) was doing an experiment with Chicago and making some resources available by computer over a special phone line. But I didn't have to know or type the commands to navigate the collection. "So, what do I do?" "Just move the arrow on the screen with the mouse on the side, and click on the blue word." I squinted and said, "OK?????" I forgot my project, left the library and, standing in the mall just looking all around me, wanted to yell at the top of my lungs that the world was about to change, hugely. And it did. Common good. What does it mean to be a Citizen? What does "civic duty and responsibility" really mean? Do we care for each other? Are we in this together? Are you a participant? Or just a taker? Do you deserve to live here? "Be Ye Worthy, As We're They."

yeah no.. this library is nice visually but the atmosphere isnt. the elevator smells like straight onions and armpit mixed with poop and the staff converses with each other so loudly as if its not a library. kids are screaming and people are juat so loud you can hear it in your headphones. its nice if you wear super noise cancelling headphones and a nose plug.

This is my favorite place in the city. From the beaux arts architecture and rich history of the branch, to the rare book section and museum tours, to the millions of free events here (cooking, book talks, crafts, employment assistance), this is a hub for our community and for the city of Philadelphia. There are truly millions of books, musical instruments, cooking tools, etc available to borrow - I recommend checking out their website as there are so many activities going on every day!

I wasn't sure about visiting the Rare Books Room whilst I was in Philadelphia. This was before I realized that libraries are actually pretty cool places to visit in a city. There's only one tour per day (at least that was the case in 2012), and I wasn't sure I wanted to plan my day around the 10 a.m. tour. But the places I'm not sure about are the places that always end up surprising and delighting me, and my visit to the Rare Books Room was no exception. In fact, visiting here encouraged me to visit the Rosenbach (which was an independent library at the time I visited). The Free Library on the whole is a gorgeous building; look up and you'll see gorgeous architectural details throughout. The tour through the Rare Books Room is, in my opinion, the pièce de résistance of a visit here. They're very prompt, so be here on time (in fact, arrive a few minutes early). The will ask you to leave your belongings, particularly your bags, behind whilst you're on the tour; they did let me take the small camera I had at the time, so I'd suspect a phone would be fine). It was just me and a couple women traveling together when I came. The tour is about an hour and they shared some wonderful artifacts, that may or may not change depending upon when you're visiting. When I toured, there were some Charles Dickens items on display which included ticket stubs some of the stops on his reading tour in America, as well as posters that advertised that tour. We were shown some carefully preserved cuneiform pieces they have on display, as well as an illuminated manuscript that is beautifully preserved. Other fascinating items we got to see included a hornbook, Egyptian papyrus, and a torah scroll. I had not heard of a hornbook before, but they were used as a literacy or other study aid in earlier centuries. The tour guide was welcoming and happily answered all the questions we had. Once the official tour had concluded, we were allowed to continue viewing the displays, as well as the study (yes, a huge, completely rebuilt study that was donated to the library) since we hadn't had a lot of time to explore the study earlier. I highly recommend the tour; it was probably my favorite of all the activities and sites I did whilst I was in Philly. I follow the Rare Books Room on Facebook, and they had an exhibit a couple years ago that I considered flying to Philadelphia specifically to see. I expect I'll return to the city again and I will visit the Rare Books Library. Review #635 - January 23, 2022 16/2022

The Free Library of Philadelphia is the public library system that serves Philadelphia. It is the 13th-largest public library system in the United States. Before they used to charge membership fee to use the library, I am glad all the public library in the nation are FREE now. Beautiful & huge library, a landmark in Philly for sure! There are several museum in the area. You can definitely spend a day in this neighborhood.

One of those most magical places in Philadelphia. Before I even made personal memories here the building had a feeling, a life of its own. I would consider it a must see for anyone visiting. If you're from here and haven't been you should. I can't actually say anything about the actual book renting process. I've never personally done it. My wife had a card. She took out "Catcher in the Rye" and that was the end of it. I saw Bernie Sanders speak here and also had my engagement photos taken here. In full disclosure I have a copy of Watchmen that was stolen from the library by an ex over a decade ago.

This place has extremely helpful staff beautiful architecture and amazing rare book viewing opportunities

Who doesn't love a library especially one that's free? Most of my reading is from a device. I can put ebooks, audiobooks, magazines on hold. When I can't wait for the electronic version to become available, I'll put an actual book on hold to pick up. They also have interesting guest speakers and events. Can't beat the price and selection.

I always loved going to the Free Library of Philadelphia. As a kid I would visit for school trips and I would also visit the library to study and hang out with friends in a quiet setting. The Free libraries of Philadelphia are located all over the city, however this is the main branch that is huge and would probably offer books and other activities that the other branches might not have. This building is gorgeous. It looks like an antique, rustic and timeless building that probably tells a story. Once you enter, there's a guard on the left and a huge stairway that can access your mind to discover old books, current books, different genres of books such as Sci Fi, romance, fiction, you name it, you can find it here, audiobooks, music and children books, there's oh so much to explore! The Parkway Central branch location has a theater for presentations as well as large conference rooms. The library has different programs and services such as adult literacy and cooking classes as well as workshops and seminars that are offered daily. I was actually there to attend their workshop called Aging with Grace and Vitality! I encourage the free library for your next outing! Trust me you won't get bored. I'll definitely be back for one of their cooking classes. Overall come explore, create, grow and learn at the free library of Philadelphia- Parkway Central Branch!

I find some of the staff, particularly the ones who were running the free plant seeds area on the 2nd floor to be rude, prejudice, and stereotype particular patrons. The library itself is beautiful but it can be hard to find space to study as the business resource center and the 2nd floor sections all fill up quickly. I do like that we can reserve online and pick up in book holdings area but the library itself is a bit out of the way if you don't live in the art museum. They have so many events throughout the year so I will be taking advantage of those!

This location of the Free Library of Philadelphia is the Central Branch. The Building is large and has many areas to stretch out and read the genre you enjoy. Of course with the digital age, you can check out books to read on your iPad-That's Pretty Cool. I visited to see Gabrielle Union discuss her new book: 'We're Going To Need More Wine'. The auditorium space is pretty spacious, but the only drawback with featured authors is that there should be some type of organization around crowd control for events. Pro: It's The Free Library-renew your card & take advantage of all that is offered to us citizens. Con: Need A Crowd Wrangler For Author Discussions

The Parkway branch is an interesting historical building in and of itself. It also has a pretty large collection of books on site. Most of the staff I have met are lovely and happy to help. With one exception. Two of the self-service scanners would not read my card (I had to input the card number and pin manually, and then the scanner would not read the codes on the books and sent me to the check-out desk). When I mentioned the issue to the man at the check-out desk, I felt like he did everything he could think of to let me know I was incapable of using a scanner correctly. At no point did he acknowledge that there may have been an issue with the machines or anything else. This was not the first time I had encountered a malfunctioning scanner or bar code, but it was the first time when a library employee was that dismissive. This was surprising and incongruous for a central library. Four stars, because the library is still the books, and not this person.

This library is incredible. It has a massive selection of... everything! I could probably live inside for at least a week and not even notice time passing. I love the interior and the architecture. I browsed a couple rooms, including the art room with the photographs. They were quite interesting, although I expected the photographs to be more accessible for viewing. In general, this is a fantastic space for writing, research, work, and pleasurable reading.

Cool experience! This library is nice and grand looking. It's in the Logan Circle area of the city. Parking is tough, but you can likely find a spot in the surrounding streets, just have to circle a bit. I like it's proximity to the more iconic Philly landmarks like the Art Museum. On my last visit, there was an exhibition going on rare books. It was pretty interesting! The exhibition was going on in an upper level, so we had a chance to look at a few different floors before getting to the exhibit - makes for good exploring! The employees are really nice and informative. They're great on giving different tidbits and answer any questions you may have. There's lots of room to sit and get work done. The hours of operation are a bit tight, I wish it was open longer but it does make a good area to hang around in to be productive. Enjoy the exploration!

1. It's free 2. It's a beautiful building 3. Staff are proactively helpful 4. THE RARE BOOK MUSEUM (pictured below). The rare book museum tour was the kicker. 11am Monday - Friday. Changes your perspective and appreciation for mass media, communications, advertising, writing, printing and books. Highly recommend it.

I know you think I fling these five stars around lightly, but I've got some quick-spirited angels on my back taking me places that are simply five-star worthy, dammit! How can it not be five stars when I'm just meandering past this place on a Saturday morning back to my hotel after a 5K and a bit sweaty and such, I see a sign about "free tour" and wha!? it begins in three minutes. Well, carpe diem, alrighty so in I go. It's just me and one other guy and I ask the volunteer, "so how long is this tour" and it's an hour. I mention that I must bolt after a good twenty minutes and "that's ok" so off we cruise. Everything downstairs is interesting, the staircase is a marvel but it's when we get upstairs to the "Rare Book Room" that I take my leave from the group that has now grown to four and a baby. Usually "closed" but there is a special circumstance and "yes" I can pop in the Rare Space and follow along. I like this "private tour crashing" so I lock up my little bag (free lockers) and make haste. Well, here we have a couple of Mormons who are in town for the dedication of the nearby temple and they have no problem with me trailing along. And WOW, this is the the place to see: - Beatrix Potter's (Peter Rabbit etc) original art, first editions, hand-written letters... - first editions of Poe, other authors - handwritten letters and text from authors including Poe and Dickens - Robert Louis Stevenson sketchbook - a Salem witch confession as evidence by her "mark" (you know a "X" back in the day) -Charles Dickens' desk! in a complete room donated by - William McIntire Elkins (historian) including colonial era maps - my favorite: Dickens' pet raven, Gripp, who was the inspiration for "The Raven!" You say Nevermore! I say, FIVE STARS!

I absolutely am a true lover of libraries...i always make it a point to visit them. Always----- Beautiful, historic, expansive Logan Square----close to the Fine Art Museum, Franklin Institute, and wonderful hotels. There is going on the ONE BOOK ONE PHILADELPHIA campaign featuring Buddha in the Attic (i own her When the Emperor was Divine). The staircase, angles, light....awww. Special collections here that one can tour---- Philbrick Hall is now open: a new wing open for new books and teen/youth section. H.O.M.E page Cafe ( minimal) inside that has sandwiches, cookies, pastries, coffee... Amazing PS Anyone spot Dickens's stuffed raven, Grip? On perm display, methinks.

I don't live in Philadelphia so I don't visit the Free Library of Philadelphia very often. However, I decided to stop off earlier this week for their speaker series. A couple of friends recommended that I come along with them to hear Bernard-Henri Lévy speak. The speech was very interesting and informative. Bernard-Henri Lévy spoke on many topics including the Kurds, the crisis in Venezuela and why the BDS movement is anti-Semitic. The library also has many other speakers lined up for their current speaker series including Former Starbucks CEO and potential presidential candidate, Howard Schultz and Democratic candidate for president, Peter Buttigieg. The library is located right in Logan Circle and right by the Parkway. The area it

I really enjoy the Free Library of Philadelphia! In fact, I love to read and a library is one of my favorite places to do that. I guess the only comparable thing that would top it is a bookstore. But a library, no matter how big it is, tends to be more personable than a bookstore. I think it's because it's in your neighborhood or your city. That gives us a sense of belonging and comfort. But it's also because of the great librarians who are able to guide us to the things we seek, and also expose us to new things. Of all the resources and services offered by the Free Library of Philadelphia, I enjoy the author events the most. Tonight I saw Gabourey Sidibe! To hear some of her personal story was amazing because it was authentic and inspirational. And her courage is fierce. It's ingenious for a library to bring books alive by inviting authors to connect with their public. It makes the library a good mix of learning environment and cutting edge social scene. Keep up the good work FLP!

Finally got a library card. Took out three books for my kid. Finally returned them about a month and a half later. They waived the fine. I donated twenty bucks so, rather than being a scofflaw, I am a philanthropist. Anyway, I really have to go exploring here someday. It truly looks amazing.

had a very frustratig experience with Free Library today. I was hoping to print my tax form in the libraray since I do not have a printer at home. So I went to the Parkway branch, which is a short walk from where I live. After I walked in, I was informed by the reception that I could use the public printer on the 2nd floor. So far, so good. It is a very nice, quiet building with high ceilings. I then walked to the 2nd floor and found the public computer area. After a brief conversation with the person working there, I was given a short slip with a password and was directed a computer 15. So far, not too bad. Then the nightmare started. I sent the file to the printer and was about to print, then I was told that I needed to pay by coin, which I do not have. I only dollar bills. Sure, no problem, there must be a change machine. Yes, there is one on the 2nd floor, but it was broken, according the person working there. But I was told I could go to the first floor. Then, I went to the first floor, and after speaking with multiple people, I found the change machine. And as you can guess, it is also broken. I went back to the 2nd floor, informing the clerk that the machines on both floors are broken. And I was told that I had to go outside to get change. Already felt frustrated, but I understand the situation, so I went outside, went to a bookstore nearby. A young gentleman exchanged the coins for me, 3 quarters. And I came back, thinking that I could finally print, but no, I was not able to log in, the computer logged me out. I went to speak with the two people, and found out that I could not log in. You only have one hour either day. For me, it is definitely not an hour, but regardless, my time is up. I asked if I could come back later since I am using my lunch break, and I had a 1pm meeting. No, you can not. You only got an hour a day. Period. After several minutes of conversation, I was asked to go to a different computer to print. At that time, I was already exhausted after climiing the stairs multiple times and asking for directions to get change, aruging about how much I have used, and I was afraid that I would be late for my 1pm meeting. I had to leave, realizing that I got nothing accomplished. As a resident of Philadlephia, I am paying 4.5% income tax, and this is how the tax money is spent, broken machine, limited hours (the library closes at 5pm Monday to Friday, and closed on weekend). Something should be changed.

The Free Library has successfully landed me in a new job. Last week, I went to the nearest computer to look for a gig, then I've logged on to Indeed and put in my information, the very next day, I made the interview and I'll start training on Monday. Thank you very much, Free Library! David Washington

The Free Library of Philadelphia is one of the cities greatest gems. The building is beautiful inside and out. It has a phenomenal range of resources covering nearly any conceivable topic, serving any age/reading level, etc., and of course it also has a pretty solid selection of other media (music, movies, periodicals). Best of all, though, is the staff, who do an exceptional job both making the library a comfortable place for everyone and providing services to meet a ridiculously wide range of needs. They help people find jobs and sign up for health insurance. They host enjoyable author events. Once, as I sat at a table nearby, an awesome librarian spent a long time helping an elderly man without much experience on the internet to find the (difficult to locate) information that he needed to solve an important mystery from his childhood. They have classes to help adults get their GED. I believe that many of their services for entrepreneurs and business owners are provided at a branch location, but the main location can provide some help in that area, too. And while it's not a university library with a sole focus on serving the needs of academics, they had a resource that I needed for a project helping a scholar with a book, and while I was there, the librarian I worked with helped me to find several other resources that I'd had difficulty locating, brought me a few useful ones that I hadn't known existed, and even helped me to sort out an issue that had nothing to do with finding books. The people who work there work hard to make it a place that can provide value to everyone. Go for the building. Go for the books or the newspapers. Go for a place to sit. Go to resolve any of a wide range of problems. Go to restore your faith that we can have public institutions that the whole public can enjoy. P.S. Two practical points: They have a lot of good digital resources. I regularly listen to audiobooks from their collection through an app on my phone and occasionally use the same app to get ebooks; I read a couple of magazines that I like but couldn't budget the money for a subscription through another app they offer; and while I more often watch movies through paid platforms, I've found some great ones through their digital film collection. And they are pretty permissive in their policies about who can join... Not only can anyone with a house or apartment in Philly join for free, but so can any PA resident, anyone who works or goes to school in Philly, and anyone who pays Philly taxes (They also allow out-of-state residents who don't work, study or pay taxes in Philadelphia to join for $50/year).

We were being tourists in our own city and THIS spot was awesome! We drive by this place multiple times a week and I mentioned that with the heat wave we should pop in and check it out... so a couple days later we did. And WOW! I mean you expect it to be a library. A lot of studying and a lot of shushing our kids. Which their is spaces for that. But we crossed paths with Curtis, a library employee. And he showed us around! Gave us a mini tour and blew our minds! He was polite, informative, funny, and accommodating. He showed us places we never imagined seeing. The culinary library (you can take real cooking classes here!) The music department (you can rent various instruments!) and also showed us views from the roof top! He added fun facts about Philly and also knew all the answers to the questions we had. And apparently this wasn't even the full tour! Curtis is da man! We parted ways at the children's department where my kids thoroughly enjoyed their time. We ended our day on the third floor with the rare books department where we met another very nice library employee who my partner had a delightful conversation with. Again polite, respectful and so knowledgeable. I didn't catch his name but will be back to take the early morning tour maybe this fall. So very long story short... GO HERE! If you're local or if you're not! It's free and it's amazing! Theirs actually so much more to say but I'll save it for another day.

One of the most well equipped and largest libraries I've been to. Its very clean and organized, plenty of seatings and chargers for a rest break while you're in downtown Philadelphia. The location is perfect for tourists like me to get some time to relax in quiet. While I didn't get to see how massive their collections of medias is given the fact they have a separate room just for music gives you an idea that you can find quite a lot here all for free. Also there's free wifi available with a bit of caviar that you be a PA resident, otherwise the library card that has wifi access is $50 an year. Even if you just stop for a quick break its definitely well worth your time to explore a bit in the library I thought. The building itself is quite historic very much like our public library in NYC and the location doesn't get any better. Highly recommended during your visit to downtown Philly for a quick stop.

Why you should visit: -amazing architecture, landscaping, and the location of the building by all the museums and Logan Square is primary tourist locations -it is clean inside and many people to help you find your way around -the building has exhibits around the library -the building as a cafe -the best thing about this library are the other activities, workshops, and programs operating here to connect with the community and bring people together -I've gone here for their poet's series and attend a talk on "net neutrality" with leading experts. So cool!

I love going to the Vine Street location which is the main branch. Extremely accessible via SEPTA and has street parking as well. Even though I like a couple of libraries near where I live, it is always a treat to take my laptop, some coffee, and small snacks and go straight to this library. The architecture is beautiful. The people who work there are all very helpful. They have many departments and advertise so many programs that you will definitely find something that interests you. You can go on their website as well. I love to set up my laptop at one of the tables, or where the colorful chairs are, put on my earphones, start my music, and get a lot of work done in a quiet atmosphere. They have meeting rooms that you can reserve, especially when you're working from them and have to do meetings or Zoom calls. Tons of power plugs so you definitely don't have to walk all over the world to find one and set up shop. One major pro is that Whole Foods, Target, The Wine and Spirits Shoppe, Wawa, and several other stores are all about 1 block away so you can easily multitask when you are in that area. There are museums as well, such as The Barnes Foundation, Natural Sciences, and The Art Museum right up the parkway with the Rocky Steps! 1 major con that I always have with this library...You have to use COINS when making copies or sending faxes. They even have change machines. I always feel like I have to bring a roll of quarters with me like I did when I had to do my laundry in college. For a library that is so technologically wonderful and funded so well, they don't even take cards! Even the smaller one I go to often in Lansdowne takes cards! Overall...I give this library A+++++++

If you love books and live nearby? this is the place for you. You can get yourself the new bestsellers, new authors, old bestsellers, old authors, DVDs, VHS (if you're still into that), CDs. You name it and it's all FREE. If you live in philly your library card is free, if you don't there's a fee OR if you have a library card from another PA library with the Access sticker then you get 1 yr free. Best part for DVDs, you get them for a week for free and you can renew them just like books. Selection is varied for movies (they have internationl and documentary selections) but you can get seasons of different tv/cable shows and have ample time to finish all the episodes. Book wise if they dont have what you're looking for they'll have something similar or in the same range or you can have it transferred from another branch. It's never a quick trip here. I always end up browsing for a while and rarely leave empty-handed. Mind you im a voracious reader and go through books like it's my job. Plus if you cant make it in and your books are due and the website is not cooperating, just give them a call and they'll do it right over the phone so you dont have fines. Also, if you for some reason need internet access or to print out something cuz your stuff at home isn't working? as long as you have a library card you can get free time on their computers and print from their printers (printing has a small fee). Can't wait to see how it'll look once they do renovations and update the structure. The existing is great and has the look and feel of a good library.

The main location of the Free Library is on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, It's in a gorgeous Beaux-arts building next to the Franklin Institute and across from the swan memorial fountain. The Free Library hosts not only an awesome collection of books, but also has a small theater for author evenings and shows, and even cooking classes! Additionally, the library hosted Brews & Views on their roof last night, in a lovely event space I didn't even know they had. Pop up beer gardens are all the rage in Philly, and this helped me add one more notch to my sky high beer garden list. The roof has a large terrace and even some grass and plantings on the east side. We sipped our adult lemonades & ate the raspberry spiked sorbet while watching new university graduates wearing their caps and gowns celebrate by swimming around in the swan memorial fountain down below. The Brews & Views is only on Thursday's through June, it was a fun evening, definitely check it out - and check out a book while your at it ;)

Support your local library! They offer amazing free programs in addition to books, music, movies, and more! The music selection at this library is impressive. I enjoy looking at the exhibits, too. Update: after visiting other libraries, I was reminded at how sad this main library can be. It obviously needs the planned renovations. Had to take off a star because of the way some holdings are 'stored' (meaning, leaned up against a wall or shoved atop a cabinet). To be fair, I will make a donation to support the renovation so rare and valuable items can be handled with more care, and the librarians won't have to work in makeshift conditions.

Love the Central Library! It's Beaux Arts building is beautiful. The book selection is good. There are so many resources here-nonprofit, employment, rare books to name a few. The children's section is separate so kids can talk without disturbing anyone. The people who work here are friendly and helpful. The adult summer reading program is a great incentive to read!

I heard about the pop up beer garden on top of The Free Library so my friends and I decided to check it out. The crowd is anyone between the ages of 25-35, some people brought there young kids. It's a pretty low key setting with a great view of the fountain that is in front of the Franklin Institute. Kind of a small area to walk around but corn hole was set up and it looked like you could order appetizers if you wanted to. The nacho plate looked huge! The alcohol selection was limited but there were $4 bud lights so that was cool. We only stayed for about an hour but I am glad that we went! Also: free admission!

Came for the public restrooms stayed for the books and the wifi. This is a cool old library with an unusual set-up, appeared to be a great selection of books and I enjoyed leafing through their display of books related to the Protestant Reformation - 2017 is the 500th anniversary. They appear to have a lot of events and programs here, including free English language classes. Pretty cool. Bathrooms are downstairs and there is an attendant security guard who will brusquely direct you if you have any trouble. Bottom-line: Great asset to the city and reasonably clean bathroom given how many homeless must use it (there was an empty mini-bottle of Sutter Home sitting in the stall I visited during my second visit).

Very nice Beaux Arts architecture make this building a great place to visit even if you're not a bibliophile. Since I AM one, however, (to say the least...) I loved the hugely impressive selection of books divided by general topic each in its own cavernous room. They even have a music section including racks of CDs (classical, soundtracks, other) and sheafs of sheet music. Free lectures are held in a basement auditorium. They also boast the "Homepage Cafe" that employs formerly homeless individuals, providing them with job skills! The name is quite appropriate especially given the numerous Internet terminals the library provides free for 1 hr/day. Of particular amusement though, was the very nice children's area hidden in the basement; not only do they have several Harry Potter books in other languages (including Latin!), but they have an entire side room full of kids' books in about a dozen languages! To get there, follow the dinosaur tracks from the bottom of the stairs! Raaaaar!

If you really want to see some cool things, go up to the 3rd floor where they have rare books and articles. Beatrix Potter, Charles Dickens, witch trial interrogation recordings, presidential letters...they have a wide collection of things to look at. And it's free! On the second floor right now they have two galleries; one about juveniles in prison and another of cats and birds. If you find yourself with extra time on your hands, I would wander over there and check it all out.

I come here almost every week with my 9 month old son. The Children's Dept has Infant and Toddler story time on select days of the week. We love it! Ms. Mary reads about 5 kiddie books and has songs in between. My son loves coming where he can play and crawl around with the other babies. They are so helpful when asked a question and they have plenty of Children's book to choose from!

For the life of me I really can't think of my favorite thing about this library. It saved me on countless occasions when my nearby apartment was seriously lacking the Internet. I was able to take out a good beginners Spanish tape for over a month, and it's the only library I can think of that let me take out Murderball and episodes of Pee Wee's Playhouse! And it's a huge cavernous old building that is perfect for walking around and learning in. There is also very good reason that they throw the word FREE into it's name. not only can you get books,movies, comics, and then some for free, but You can also meet interesting people. One of my favorite times ever here was getting to see Irvine Welsh (The Author of Trainspotting) read from his new book and meet with people afterward. But the Library isn't just about meeting cool Authors (although you can't go wrong with the likes of Welsh and Amy Sedaris!). they have music showcases, job fairs, plays, chances to meet with Mayoral candidates, and then some. and it's usually all for FREE.

Visited for the first time today, and WOW! it's huge! I didn't get so much time to explore but the staff here were so kind and helpful. Really professional. The books they have in reference and archives are so extensive and numerous, it may actually be easier doing research here than on the internet, shockingly enough. The interior is clean, quite, and well-kept and there are just so many books so well organized that I might actually go back to visit, without having a research project to help my boyfriend on. The only thing that miffed me was that we had to visit twice before we actually got into the library. The first time we forgot it was a federal holiday (veteran's day) and the second time, we went at 5:30pm and it was closed. The engraved sign outside said the hours were until 6pm.. we stood outside the iron gates scratching our heads until my boyfriend peered inside and saw the scrolling light display that said open till 5pm. Please change the outside sign! It's really misleading! Other than that, a true gem in the city. Not five stars yet, but may well be in the future when I can revisit..