Charles Santore Library
Due to cooling issues, the Santore Library will not be holding materials to be picked up at this location. Items placed on hold have been sent to the Independence Library, at 7th and Market.
If you wish to change the pickup location, you may edit the items in your account or call 1-833-TALK FLP (825-5357).
| 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
Services
- Book Drop
- Browse Shelves
- Computer Use
- Materials / Holds Pick Up
- Printing Services
- Reference Services
- Wi-Fi
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, August 13, 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, August 13, 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, August 14, 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.
Toddler and Preschooler Storytime at Goldstar Park
Wed, August 20, 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.
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.