David Cohen Ogontz Library
As a reminder, the drop box should be used only for returning library materials. Please do not drop in any personal items. We do not accept donations, per the posted signage. Thank you for your interest in supporting the library and for your cooperation!
| 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 | Closed |
Upcoming Closures
- Thu., Jun. 19 : Closed Juneteenth
- Fri., Jul. 4 : Closed Independence Day
- Mon., Sep. 1 : Closed Labor Day
- Mon., Oct. 13 : Closed Indigenous Peoples' Day
Services
- Book Drop
- Browse Shelves
- Computer Use
- Materials / Holds Pick Up
- Printing Services
- Reference Services
- Wi-Fi
Facilities
- Bicycle rack
- Book drop box
- Computers for public use
- Handicapped accessible
- Meeting space (reservation required)
- Parking lot
- Photocopier (black/white)
- Printing (black/white)
- Public restrooms
- Scanner
- Water fountain
- Wireless internet access (wi/fi)
Upcoming Events
Make Scrubs and Bath Bombs
Wed, June 18, 2025
1:00 P.M.
Learn how to create your own scrubs and bath bombs in this hands-on workshop. Using natural ingredients, this process provides a creative outlet and an introduction to DIY self-care, and allows participants to take home their own creations. All supplies will be provided and this…
Philly Goat Project!
Fri, June 20, 2025
2:00 P.M.
Join us in welcoming the Philly Goat Project to Ogontz Library! We will meet and interact with these furry friends, including a mini nature walk and Goat Storytime. All ages welcome. **Raindate Friday June 26 2pm-4pm**
Summer Kickoff Party!
Mon, June 23, 2025
4:00 P.M.
Let's kickoff our Summer of Wonder with the Amazing Mr. Q, who will put our imaginations to the test with magic, balloon animals, and more! Then get your facepainted by Fabulous Faces. Pick up a free book when you sign up for our Summer Reading program, while supplies last. …
Social Services at the Library with a Social Worker
Tue, June 24, 2025
2:00 P.M.
Stop by for Open Office Hours with a Social Worker where you can receive help finding, navigating, and connecting to relevant community and government agencies. This service will be available today from 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. If you have questions, you can email…
About
Serving the communities of Ogontz and Belfield, this branch is located at Church Lane and Ogontz Avenue.
History
Ogontz is named after the Oak Lane mansion of Jay Cooke, a Civil War financier. As a young boy, he met Chief Ogontz in Ohio and later named his home for the Indian leader.
The community first requested a library in 1961, but due to problems with sites, funding and construction, the library was not opened until 1997. David and Florence Cohen helped get the community organized by circulating petitions and even hosting a meeting at their home. In the 1960's and 70's the area was served by a bookmobile, and various sites were considered, and even purchased, but the plans were rejected and funding was rescinded.
In 1984, the neighborhood association requested a library on the site of the former Ogontz Theatre and the library applied for library construction funds from the state. In 1994, groundbreaking was held at 6017 Ogontz Avenue, next to the site of the theatre. The library was to be a pre-engineered modular building, with carousel book shelves.
On February 10, 1997, the new library was finally opened, with a special poem written and recited by Nikki Taylor, who fondly remembered the weekly bookmobile visits and considered the new library a blessing for the entire community.