Whether moving to Philly or new to using the library, The Free Library of Philadelphia is an amazing resource. Find the beautiful Beaux-Arts building near Benjamin Franklin Parkway. With over 50 branches around the city, The Free Library of Philadelphia system is a must-visit for families and kids.

Who Is the Free Library of Philadelphia For?

Anyone can visit the public library. The library system annually circulates millions of items to hundreds of thousands of people. But the library offers far more than book borrowing.

The biggest library, Central Library, is the main public library building. This is the anchor of the entire Philadelphia library system. It serves as the administrative headquarters and is the only research library.

Dive in. The Free Library offers a wide array of programs and services, including literacy workshops, computer classes, and adult education. Hop in one of the library’s tours to learn the history of the library and better appreciate its architecture.

What Are the Special Collections Inside the Free Library of Philadelphia?

Every floor of the Free Library of Philadelphia offers a non-circulating collection (or two) to explore.

• First Floor: Music Collections
• Second Floor: Map Collection and Print and Picture Collection
• Third Floor: Children’s Literature Research Collection, Rare Book Department, and Theater Collection

Browse a collection of books and manuscripts from famous authors and writers at Parkway Central Library. Look at the Print and Picture Collection of the Free Library of Philadelphia, or PIX. It’s an enormous collection, including photographs, fine art prints, and drawings.

Marvel over the Philadelphiana Collection and its assortment of more than 20,000 Philadelphia images, new and old. This includes the 1876 Centennial Exhibition in Philly’s Fairmount Park.

Plan ahead. Although its free to visit the library and view the different library collections, it is by appointment only.

How To Use the Free Library of Philadelphia

Getting a library card from the Free Library is the first step towards accessing a wealth of resources. Digital comic books or manga, audiobooks or podcasts, the library provides access to numerous (if not practically endless) titles. Anyone ages 12 and up may borrow up to 50 items at a time, while those under age 12 may borrow up to 20 items at a time.

How To Get a Library Card

Anyone who lives in, works, or attends school in Philadelphia or lives in Pennsylvania can get a Free Library of Philadelphia card.

Bring the following items to a physical library location to receive a library card: a valid Pennsylvania State I.D. or two forms of ID with the same name and address. Note: Cellphone bills, social security cards, and Post Office boxes aren’t considered acceptable identification. See the full list of valid forms of I.D. and the identification guidelines for people under the age of 17.

Online applicants will receive a physical card upon visiting the library. Bring a form of valid I.D. for that initial library visit.

What Are the Fines and Fees at the Free Library of Philadelphia?

Running late getting that book back to the library? Breathe a little easier. The Free Library does not charge fines for overdue materials.

Losing an item will incur fees. There are replacement costs for lost or damaged materials that vary depending on the item (and the damage).

Where Is the Library Located in Philly?

The Free Library’s central location is Parkway Central Library, located at 1901 Vine Street.

Not in the city? There are more than 50 smaller branches around the city. Find your local library operating hours.

Visit the Free Library of Philadelphia

There are always things to do at the Free Library of Pennsylvania. Don’t miss library activities, free tours, or other fun Philly events. This is one library that’s anything but quiet.

Lead photo by J. Smith for VISIT PHILADELPHIA®