The Free Library of Philadelphia (2024)

FAQs

How to get a card from the Free Library of Philadelphia? ›

Get A Library Card

You can apply in-person, online, or by mail for a library card. Adults applying in person should either bring a valid Pennsylvania State ID, or two forms of ID that have the same name and address. The full list of valid forms of ID, as well as what kids under 17 should bring, is available here.

Get the Libby app to borrow on the go; enter your library card and PIN. Available To: All Free Library locations and online with your library card.

If you are a Pennsylvania resident, the Philadelphia Free Library offers free library cards to residents (including access to ebooks via Libby).

You can become a Free Library cardholder if any one (or more!) of the following applies: You live in Philadelphia, or anywhere in Pennsylvania. You work in Philadelphia. You pay taxes in Philadelphia.

Your library card connects you to the latest e-books, audiobooks, streaming media, news outlets, and online learning sites—for free! Virtual Programming, like online storytimes and Author Events, are also now streaming on a variety of platforms. Browse all databases and streaming media services.

In 1894, the courts ruled in favor of William Pepper's Free Library, and later that year it merged with the city's public library system and became the Free Library of Philadelphia, founded under the motto “Liber Libere Omnibus,” the Latin phrase meaning “Free Books for All.”

The library also dropped Hoopla, a platform that offers access to movies and TV as well as other types of media, like audio books, e-books, music, and comics. Between 2,000 and 7,000 patrons used the two services every month.

Yes, Libby is completely free. It's free to install, and there are no subscription costs, no in-app purchases, and no late fees. All you need is a valid library card from your library.

Can I print at the free library of Philadelphia? ›

Can I print at the free library? Most, though not all, branches have printing services available. Call your local branch for specific information. Many have free printing, but some may charge up to 25 cents per page.

Yes, you'll need a library card for each library you want to borrow from. You can add multiple libraries to Libby, and you can even add multiple cards for each library. Each library has their own guidelines for getting a card.

Try Libby, our new app for enjoying ebooks and audiobooks!

Internet Archive: The largest digital library for downloading e-books and audio-books for free. 8. Open Library: More than one million e-books of classic literature to download.

The Free Library finally opened in March of 1894 after the courts decided the money was intended to found a new public library. The first location for the Library was three cramped rooms in City Hall.

You can call 1-833-TALK FLP (1-833-825-5357) to talk to a librarian who can answer any question you might have, like whether your local branch has any upcoming events, how to change your library card PIN number, or what resources the library has to help you manage your diabetes.

​Yes. State-aided public libraries and District Library Centers may choose to issue a free library card to someone who lives in a municipality that does not support public library services for its residents. (Or, the library may choose to charge a fee for a library card; or it may choose to not issue one at all.)

Proving your residency

You might provide your: Utility bill. Bank statement. Current lease.

The Free Library's flagship program is a summer reading challenge for all ages. Participants can attend library programs, find new books to read, and explore activities to stay engaged throughout the summer.