Philadelphia, PA 19103-1189
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The Free Library of Philadelphia, City Officials, and the William Penn Foundation Cut the Ribbon on a $5.5 Million Transformation of the Frankford Library
The Free Library of Philadelphia celebrates its fourth library reopening this year. Finally, reopening the Frankford Library, which closed in December 2022 for renovations
PHILADELPHIA– Today, The Free Library of Philadelphia, Councilmember Quetcy Lozada (7th District), Pennsylvania State Senator Christine Tartagliono (2nd District), Pennsylvania Representative Jason Dawkins (179th District), the William Penn Foundation, the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation (FLPF), and community members gathered to cut the ribbon on the newly renovated Frankford Library. The library, located in Northeast Philadelphia, received a $5.5 million transformation through private funding from individuals, foundations, and corporations to the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation.
"Today, the Frankford community’s patience is being rewarded with a beautiful, modern library that reflects the pride and resilience of this neighborhood. This upgraded space is what our families, children, and neighbors need and deserve," said Quetcy Lozada, City Councilmember (7th District). "This library is the cornerstone of a larger vision for Frankford, where every family has access to safe spaces, quality resources, and opportunities to grow."
The Frankford branch has been a cherished resource for Northeast Philadelphia residents and has been servicing Frankford, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, since 1900. The building served as a hospital during the Civil War.
"The renewed Frankford Library embodies the spirit of what a modern library should be. Open to all and committed to meeting the needs of its community,” said Kelly Richards, President and Director, the Free Library of Philadelphia. "Thanks to the generous support, this beloved library has been reimagined for the 21st century as a vibrant and inclusive space for all ages."
The comprehensive $5.5 million renovation includes:
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New work counters with charging stations
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New work counters with computer/phone charging stations
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New elevator
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Expanded children’s department with a family restroom
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New teen area
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Quiet study rooms
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New furniture and flooring
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Renovated restrooms, lactation room, and large and small meeting room space
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New entryway, exterior signage, and windows on the building exterior
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Freshly planted trees outside the Library
“We believe in the healthy development and academic success of our youngest Philadelphians, as well as the importance of access to high-quality public spaces right in your own neighborhood,” said Amanda Charles, Program Officer for Children and Families at the William Penn Foundation. “Supporting the renovation of the Frankford Library is an investment in the community, providing opportunities for learning and connection for generations to come."
Frankford Library's renovation was made possible by the William Penn Foundation; Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program; Office of Commonwealth Libraries, Pennsylvania Department of Education, with funds provided from the Keystone Recreation, Park, and Conservation Fund; Patrick J. McGovern Foundation; and The McLean Contributionship through contributions to the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation.
Frankford is the fourth Free Library branch to reopen after extensive renovations this year. Three other libraries including Kingsessing, Cobbs Creek, and Lawncrest Libraries also reopened this spring. Those libraries were funded and managed by the City’s Rebuild program, investing $21 million into beloved community spaces.
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About the Free Library of Philadelphia
The Free Library of Philadelphia system, with 54 locations and The Rosenbach, advances literacy, guides learning, and inspires curiosity with millions of digital and physical materials; 31,000 yearly programs and workshops; free public computers and extensive Wi-Fi; and rich special collections, including those at the Parkway Central Library and The Rosenbach. With more than 5 million in-person visits and 5 million more online annually, the Free Library and The Rosenbach are among the most widely used educational and cultural institutions in Philadelphia and boast a worldwide impact.
06/05/2025
Department of External Affairs, Free Library of Philadelphia, 1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103-1189
(215) 567-7710, FAX (215) 567-7850