On Thursday, October 16, the Free Library of Philadelphia celebrated the 25th anniversary of LEAP, our Literacy Enrichment Afterschool Program. Started in 1989, LEAP has evolved over the years into an enriching out-of-school-time program. Every day, our neighborhood libraries transform into vibrant learning centers where children and teens participate in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and literacy activities that are led by Afterschool Leaders, Teen Leadership Assistants, and Free Library staff. To celebrate 25 years of literacy and learning through LEAP, we held an anniversary celebration at the Blanche A. Nixon/Cobbs Creek Library.

Highlights of the celebration included Tongue Twister Tour, a literacy activity that encourages children to explore alliteration and rhyming; and Robot Theory, a STEM activity that explores simple electrical circuits. These activities were presented by Curriculum Specialist Brittany Walker, with Teen Leadership Assistants Justin Bridgeford, Kayla Pollard-Green, and Nishat Fariha.

LEAP has been made possible by generous support from the City, foundations, and individuals over the years. Ruth and Morris Williams have provided key leadership and support. The City of Philadelphia and the Department of Human Services continue to support the crucial work of LEAP each year. LEAP would not be successful without the work of the Afterschool Leaders, Teen Leadership Assistants, and Free Library staff: Each of you have made a positive impact on the program! Most important, though, are the students who come to LEAP and the Free Library. Their dedication to learning and succeeding not only in school but in life is truly admirable.

Thank you to all for your support of LEAP over the last 25 years!