The Free Library of Philadelphia is a public library system run by the city that lends books, provides internet access, and hosts programs at 54 locations across Philadelphia

The Free Library of Philadelphia operates as a municipal library system funded by the city of Philadelphia. You do not pay to get a library card or to borrow materials. The system includes a main library building downtown, neighborhood branch libraries spread across the city, and a bookmobile that visits different locations on a set schedule. You can borrow books, audiobooks, DVDs, and other materials at no cost, use public computers and Wi-Fi, and attend programs like story times, job training workshops, and community events.

The library system is separate from the Philadelphia School District libraries and from university libraries. If you live, work, or go to school in Philadelphia, you can get a card. If you live outside the city but work in Philadelphia, you may also be able to get a card; the library's website lists the specific requirements. Once you have a card, you can borrow from any of the 54 locations and return materials to any location as well.

Key Takeaways

  • A Free Library of Philadelphia card is free and lets you borrow books, audiobooks, DVDs, and digital materials from any of the 54 library locations.
  • To get a card, you need to visit a library location in person with a photo ID and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • The library offers free public computer access, Wi-Fi, and programs including job training, literacy classes, and children's story times at multiple locations.
  • You can place holds on materials online through the library's website and pick them up at the location nearest you.
  • The library's collection includes physical books, e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services that you can access with your library card.

Getting a Library Card

To get a Free Library of Philadelphia card, you must visit a library location in person. You will need to bring a photo ID (such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a permanent address, the library has a process for people experiencing homelessness; ask staff at any location about the specific documents needed.

The library does not charge a fee for a card. Once you have one, it is valid for three years. You can renew it in person at any library location, by phone, or online through the library's website. If your card expires, you can still renew it; there is no penalty for an expired card.

If you live outside Philadelphia but work in the city, you may be able to get a card. The library's website lists the current requirements for out-of-city residents, as these can change. Some neighboring counties have reciprocal agreements with the Free Library, meaning residents of those counties can get cards under different rules.

What You Can Borrow and Where

The Free Library's collection includes fiction and nonfiction books for adults, young adults, and children. You can also borrow audiobooks, DVDs, Blu-rays, graphic novels, magazines, and reference materials. The library does not charge late fees on most materials, though some items like DVDs may have a due date you need to meet to avoid losing borrowing privileges.

You can search the library's catalog online at the Free Library website. If the book or item you want is not currently available, you can place a hold on it. The library will notify you by email or phone when it arrives at the location you chose, and you typically have seven days to pick it up. Holds are free.

You can borrow materials from any of the 54 locations and return them to any location as well. The main library building is located at 1901 Vine Street in Center City. Neighborhood branches are spread throughout Philadelphia's districts. The library's website has the hours and address for each location, and some locations have different hours on different days.

Digital Materials and Online Access

With your library card, you can access digital books, audiobooks, and streaming services from home. The library offers e-books and audiobooks through OverDrive and Libby, apps you can read to your phone or tablet. You log in with your library card number to borrow digital titles, which are automatically returned after the loan period ends with no late fees.

The library also provides access to streaming services and databases. These may include movie and TV streaming, music streaming, language learning apps, and educational databases. The specific services available can change, so check the library's website to see what is currently offered and how to access each one with your card.

If you do not have internet at home, you can use the library's public computers and Wi-Fi at any location. Computer use is free. Some locations have time limits during busy hours, but you can reserve a computer in advance through the library's website. The library also offers free Wi-Fi outside the buildings, so you can use your own device in the parking lot or nearby area.

Programs and Services Beyond Borrowing

The Free Library hosts programs at its locations throughout the year. These include story times and early literacy programs for young children, homework help and after-school programs for school-age children, and teen programs at some locations. Many locations offer job training workshops, resume help, and interview coaching. The library also hosts community events, author talks, and classes on topics like financial literacy and digital skills.

Some programs are free and open to anyone; others require registration through the library's website or by calling the location directly. Program schedules vary by location, so check the website or call ahead to find out what is happening near you. Many programs are offered both in person and online, especially since the pandemic.

The library also provides access to a job database and career resources. If you are looking for work, you can use the library's computers to search job listings, create a resume, and practice interview skills. Some locations have staff who can help you one-on-one with job searching.

Borrowing Limits and Due Dates

The number of items you can borrow at once depends on the type of material. Most adult borrowers can check out up to 50 items at a time, though this can vary. Children's and young adult borrowers may have different limits. You can check your current borrowing limit by logging into your account on the library's website.

Due dates vary by material type. Most books are due back in three weeks. DVDs are typically due in one week. Audiobooks and e-books have their own due dates depending on the platform. You can renew items online, by phone, or in person if no one else has placed a hold on them. The library does not charge late fees on most materials, but items that are very overdue may result in a lost-item charge.

If you lose or damage an item, you will be charged a replacement fee. The amount depends on the item. You can pay this fee in person at any library location or online through your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to live in Philadelphia to get a library card?

No. You can get a card if you live, work, or go to school in Philadelphia. If you live outside the city, check the library's website for the current requirements for out-of-city residents, as some neighboring counties have reciprocal agreements that allow their residents to get cards.

What do I do if I lose my library card?

Visit any library location or call the main library to report your card lost. You can get a replacement card in person at any location. There is a small replacement fee, though the library may waive it in some cases. You can also ask the library to temporarily block your card over the phone to prevent someone else from using it.

Can I renew a book online if someone has placed a hold on it?

No. If another person has placed a hold on the book, you cannot renew it. You will need to return it so the next person can pick it up. You can place a hold on the same book if you want to borrow it again after the other person is done.

Are there late fees at the Free Library?

The Free Library does not charge late fees on most materials. However, if an item is very overdue, you may be charged a lost-item fee. Some materials like DVDs may have specific due dates, so check your receipt or account to see the due date for each item you borrow.

How do I access e-books and audiobooks with my library card?

read the Libby or OverDrive app to your phone or tablet, or visit the website. Log in with your library card number. You can then search for and borrow digital titles. They are automatically returned after the loan period, so there are no late fees. The library's website has instructions for setting up each service.