Charles Santore Library

Tuesday, August 26 – Message from Staff

Patrons are once again able to select the Charles Santore Library as the pick-up location for their holds.

If you wish to change the pickup location for your existing holds, you may edit the items in your account or call us at 215-686-1766.

932 South 7th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19147-2932
7th & Carpenter Sts.
Open today 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday, 8/24 Closed
Monday, 8/25 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, 8/26 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday, 8/27 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, 8/28 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday, 8/29 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. *
Saturday, 8/30 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • * Friday had hour changes – preparation for the Labor Day holiday
Sunday Closed
Monday 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Upcoming Closures

  • Mon., Sep. 1 : Closed Labor Day
  • Mon., Oct. 13 : Closed Indigenous Peoples' Day
  • Tue., Nov. 11 : Closed Veterans Day
  • Thu., Nov. 27 : Closed Thanksgiving Day
View all holiday closings

Facilities

  • Baby changing station
  • Bicycle rack
  • Book drop box
  • Computers for public use
  • Electrical outlets available
  • Handicapped accessible
  • Meeting space (reservation required)
  • Photocopier (black/white)
  • Printing (black/white)
  • Public restrooms
  • Street parking
  • Water fountain
  • Wireless internet access (wi/fi)

Upcoming Events

Toddler and Preschooler Storytime at Goldstar Park

Wed, September 3, 2025 10:15 A.M.

We’re going to read books, sing songs and move our bodies at the library with Ms. Lindsay. This storytime is intended for children 18 months to 5 years old. Siblings welcome. Groups can call to arrange a separate visit at 215-686-1766.  

Baby Storytime at Goldstar Park

Wed, September 3, 2025 11:00 A.M.

Bring your little one for lap time with stories, songs, rhymes, and bounces. This program is intended for children birth to 14 months and their caregivers. Groups can call to arrange a separate visit at 215-686-1766.  

Storytime in the Park at Starr Garden

Thu, September 4, 2025 10:30 A.M.

Storytime for the whole family (just like at the library!) Located on the field inside Starr Garden. Bring your own blanket! Starr Garden is located at 600 Lombard Street.

Crafternoon for Kids

Thu, September 4, 2025 3:30 P.M.

Kids of all ages are welcome to join us for fun craft creations. Even the littlest littles can color and have fun at the library.  

About

Formerly the Southwark Branch, the library was renamed in 2004 to honor political leader Charles Santore. Located a short distance from the Italian Market, the library serves the South Philadelphia communities of Bella Vista, Queen Village, and Hawthorne.

History

Initially named Wicaco, Southwark is the oldest settlement in Philadelphia. King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden granted a charter for settlement in 1638, and Swedish settlers were already established before William Penn's arrival. The Southwark district was created in 1762, named after a neighborhood in London. In the 1960's, the district became known as Queen Village.

The original Southwark Library was a Carnegie Building located at 5th and Ellsworth on land donated by the Young Man's Institute. It opened on November 15, 1912.

The Library opened in its current location on November 1, 1963. It was renovated in 1998 as part of the "Changing Lives" campaign, which refurbished branches and ensured Internet access.

The library was re-named on March 26, 2004 to honor Charles Santore. A South Philadelphia native born in 1910, Santore was a former boxer, Republican ward leader, and founder of Municipal Employees Union Local 696. At the time of his death he was the oldest active ward leader in any party.

The library is a short distance from the Italian Market on 9th Street. There is a lovely courtyard, accessible from the children's room, which is perfect for relaxed reading.