Copied to Clipboard
Free Library of Philadelphia
The gorgeous Beaux-Arts building along the culture-heavy Benjamin Franklin Parkway serves as the heart of the Free Library of Philadelphia system, which includes more than 50 branches around the city.
In addition to typical library activities — checking out and returning books — visitors to the Parkway Central Library can explore a massive collection that boasts some notable and rare works, such as collections of Edgar Allan Poe, Beatrix Potter and medieval manuscripts.
The Map Collection opens up a world of more than 130,000 current and historical maps.
Also, the library’s Music Department contains one of the largest music and dance materials in the country, featuring more than 100,000 volumes.
The Free Library of Philadelphia boast more than 100,000 books and manuscripts in its Rare Book Department.
Free, daily tours lead visitors to the Rare Book Department to view materials such as a printed copy of the first edition of Tamerlane, one of the first poems published by Edgar Allan Poe.
Additionally, a 10 a.m. tour covers the library’s architecture and history.
Author readings and lectures, special exhibits and more keep Philadelphians celebrating Ben Franklin’s idea of free public literature all year long.
The Visit Philly Overnight Package — booked more than 190,000 times since 2001 — comes with free hotel parking (worth up to $100 in Center City Philadelphia), overnight hotel accommodations and choose-your-own-adventure perks.