Library Company of Philadelphia
| Type | Research library, museum |
|---|---|
| Address | 1314 Locust Street |
| Map | View on Google Maps |
| Neighborhood | Center City |
| Phone | (215) 546-3181 |
| Website | Official site |
| Established | 1731 |
| Founder | Benjamin Franklin |
| Director | Michael J. Barsanti |
| Hours | Mon-Fri 9 AM - 4:45 PM |
The Library Company of Philadelphia is the oldest cultural institution in America, founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1731 as the colonies' first successful lending library. What began as a subscription library for Philadelphia's "leather-apron men" (skilled artisans like Franklin himself) evolved into a major research library holding over 500,000 books, pamphlets, and graphics documenting American history and culture from the 17th through the 19th centuries.[1]
The Library Company served as the de facto Library of Congress until 1800, when the national collection moved to Washington. Today, it functions as an independent research library, open free of charge to anyone interested in studying its remarkable collections, which include Benjamin Franklin's personal library, rare Americana, early African American history, and extensive visual materials.[2]
History
Franklin's Vision
In 1731, Benjamin Franklin and a group of fellow tradesmen established the Library Company:
- Each member contributed to buy books
- Books were shared among members
- The model was revolutionary: collective access to knowledge
- It was America's first successful subscription library
Franklin called it "the mother of all the North American subscription libraries."
Growth
The library grew rapidly:
- Moved through several locations
- Acquired important collections
- Received donations of significant materials
- Served Philadelphia's intellectual community
Library of Congress Role
From 1774 to 1800:
- The Continental Congress and later Congress used the Library Company
- It was effectively the national library
- Members included Washington, Jefferson, and other founders
- This role ended when the Library of Congress was established (1800)
Current Building
The Library Company has occupied its current building at 1314 Locust Street since 1966.
Collections
Size and Scope
- 500,000+ printed items: Books, pamphlets, newspapers
- 160,000+ graphics: Prints, photographs, drawings
- 75,000+ manuscripts
- Focus: American history and culture, 17th-19th centuries
Notable Collections
| Collection | Description |
|---|---|
| Franklin Collection | Benjamin Franklin's personal library and papers |
| African Americana | Largest collection of pre-1900 African American imprints |
| Print and Photo Collection | Visual documentation of American history |
| Early American Imprints | Books printed before 1820 |
| Women's History | Materials on American women's experiences |
Research Strengths
- American Revolution
- 18th-century culture
- African American history before 1900
- Philadelphia history
- Book history and printing
- Visual culture
Using the Library
Access
The Library Company is a research library, not a circulating public library:
- Open to all researchers free of charge
- Materials used on-site in reading room
- No appointment needed for most materials
- Staff assistance available
Hours
- Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:45 PM
- Closed: Weekends and holidays
Registration
- Reader registration required (free and simple)
- Bring photo ID
- Staff will orient you to procedures
Research Services
- Reference assistance
- Reproduction services
- Digitized materials online
Exhibitions and Programs
Exhibitions
The Library Company presents exhibitions drawn from its collections:
- Gallery exhibitions
- Online exhibitions
- Related publications
Public Programs
- Lectures and talks
- Symposia and conferences
- Exhibitions and receptions
Fellowships
The Library Company offers research fellowships:
- Short-term and long-term
- For scholars in relevant fields
- Support use of collections
Visiting the Library
Location
1314 Locust Street in Center City Philadelphia
Getting There
- SEPTA Broad Street Line: Walnut-Locust Station
- SEPTA Regional Rail: Suburban Station (10-minute walk)
- Walking: Between 13th and Broad Streets on Locust
- Parking: Nearby garages
Tips
- The Library Company is primarily for researchers
- Exhibitions are open to casual visitors
- The Franklin collection is remarkable
- Call ahead if you have research questions
Nearby Attractions
- Historical Society of Pennsylvania (across the street)
- Academy of Music (2 blocks)
- Kimmel Center (2 blocks)
- Avenue of the Arts
See Also
- Benjamin Franklin
- American Philosophical Society
- Historical Society of Pennsylvania
- Libraries in Philadelphia
References
- ↑ "About the Library Company". Library Company of Philadelphia. Retrieved December 30, 2025
- ↑ "Library Company of Philadelphia". Visit Philadelphia. Retrieved December 30, 2025