The Go Birds: Appreciating Our Avian Friends exhibition is on view in the Second Floor West Gallery at the Parkway Central Library from June 2 – August 30, 2025. 

Birds have long captivated humankind with their graceful flight, unique plumage, and enchanting songs. Adapting to natural and built environments, birds have physical and innate characteristics that help them survive. Beyond the dangers of the natural world, birds are also affected by human-imposed hazards. With many conservation challenges facing avian species today, there is an urgent need to safeguard bird habitats for generations to come. 

Whether you are a seasoned birder or simply curious about the feathered friends in your neighborhood, this exhibition offers a chance to reflect on these incredible creatures and how we observe, depict, and protect them.

Objects on display are from the Free Library's Special Collections Division: Children’s Literature Research Collection, Government Publications, Map Collection, and Print and Picture Collection.

Events

Learn more about birds at your local library! As a part of the Go Birds: Appreciating Our Avian Friends exhibition, libraries across the city are hosting bird-themed events including birdwalks and children's storytimes. Join in the fantastic feathery fun!

Birding Backpacks

Did you know that you can borrow everything you need to get started with birding from the library? 20 libraries throughout the system have birding backpacks available! Each backpack comes with a pair of binoculars, local park maps and trail guides, a field guide to identifying local birds, and some information about BirdPhilly, one of our partners. BirdPhilly is an organization that leads free expertly-guided bird walks all over Philadelphia. Each backpack can be loaned for three weeks. You can borrow a backpack and go birding on your own, sign up for an organized walk with BirdPhilly, or join a walk happening at a library near you!

Coloring Pages

Many birds have colorful feathers. Design your own beautiful bird or copy one existing in nature with these coloring pages. Each image is from an object found in Special Collections, and is also available to look at in our Digital Collections.

Bird Songs

Get in the mood to learn more about our avian friends with this playlist, full of songs referencing birds! Many aspects of birds, from their calls to their flight, have served as inspiration for musicians throughout the years. Listen and find your own inspiration!