The Free Library of Philadelphia is reimagining the future of the city’s public libraries—and they want to hear directly from you.
Over the next four weeks, the Free Library will host various Town Halls and a public survey to help shape its next strategic plan moving forward. Simply put, library officials want to know — What should the future of our libraries look like, and how can they better serve you?
“Libraries are one of the city’s greatest public resources,” said Kelly Richards, President and Director of the Free Library of Philadelphia. “They are welcoming spaces for all—places to learn, grow, gather, and imagine what’s possible. This summer, we’re listening to Philadelphians to ensure every voice is part of our next chapter.”
The Free Library and Free Library Foundation are launching this element of their strategic planning process, Charting our Future Together, with the support of The Pew Charitable Trusts. The process includes a series of town halls, a citywide public survey, and focus groups.
“At the Free Library Foundation, we are deeply aligned with the mission and vision of the Free Library,” said Monique Pryor, President of the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation. “This strategic planning process is about listening to our varied neighborhoods, understanding their evolving needs, and building lasting relationships that ensure the sustainability and impact of our work. Our future success depends on the trust and engagement of those we serve.”
Join the conversation
Organizers are encouraging city residents to attend an upcoming town hall. Each session will include remarks from the Library and Foundation leadership, and will gather ideas from the community on a number of issues. Sessions will have translation and sign language available, and will be facilitated by The ROZ Group, which is guiding the strategic planning process. Light refreshments will be provided.
Town halls will take place: Monday, June 16, Bok Building, 1901 S. 9th St., (Vietnamese translation); Monday, June 23, Esperanza Arts Center, 4261 N. 5th St., (Spanish translation); Wednesday, July 2, Kingsessing Library, 1201 S. 51st St., (French translation); Wednesday, July 16, Parkway Central Library, 1901 Vine St., (Cantonese translation). All town halls will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. and will have American sign language available.
Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP in advance by visiting freelibrary.org/input.
Public survey
An online survey is also a part of the listening tour. Designed by ImpactED at the University of Pennsylvania, with guidance and input from the Library and Foundation executive leadership teams, the survey is available in four languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, and Portuguese. Surveys can also be completed at neighborhood library locations for residents without access to a computer.
The online survey is available at freelibrary.com/input.
Why this matters
“Libraries are at the heart of every neighborhood—places for curiosity, connection, and community health. They support economic opportunity, provide safe, welcoming spaces, and help bridge the digital divide,” Free Library officials said in a release.
The Free Library of Philadelphia system has more than 50 locations, and hosts 22,000 programs and workshops annually. With more than 5 million in-person visits and 5 million more online annually, it is one of the largest public library systems in the nation.
For more information about the Free Library of Philadelphia, visit Freelibrary.org.
