About the Library

The mission of the Free Library of Philadelphia is to advance literacy, guide learning, and inspire curiosity. Its vision is to build an enlightened community devoted to lifelong learning.

Inclusivity Statement
The Free Library of Philadelphia is a welcoming and inclusive public space and strongly believes in promoting understanding and community engagement. All 54 of our libraries provide a safe haven for individuals of all ages and backgrounds, providing homework help, ESL classes, supportive job search assistance, and much more. We encourage and host conversations about differences and complex social issues. The library exists to provide opportunities for discussion supported by educational resources, access to a vast array of information, and ideas that transform communities, open minds, and promote inclusion.
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Read the Urban Libraries Council's recent Statement on Race and Social Equity.


Focus On: The Free Library has completed an ambitious strategic plan that will guide its work through 2017. You can read the highlights of the plan, as well as see our most recent progress report on this initiative.

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