As part of the Free Library of Philadelphia's Building Inspiration: 21st Century Libraries Initiative, the Lillian Marrero, Logan, Lovett Memorial and Tacony libraries received extensive modernization and expansion.
Both the Lillian Marrero and Logan libraries reopened in November. The Tacony library will reopen Saturday, Dec. 2 and the Lovett Memorial library will reopen Saturday, Dec. 16.
RELATED READS: See a theater show for cheap, with pint and pizza included | Suraya's Levant-inspired market is now open in Fishtown | BYOB trolley tour offers new way to see holiday lights in Philly
The Free Library collaborated with architect James. R. Keller, who specializes in design and planning for libraries, to reimagine the neighborhood spaces.
The updates were made possible by a historic $25 million gift from the William Penn Foundation – the largest private gift ever received by the Free Library – as well as a number of private individuals, institutional funders and the City of Philadelphia.
Below are photos of some of the new, state-of-the-art spaces.
Lillian Marrero (601 West Lehigh Ave.)
Its programming emphasizes early-childhood literacy. There's also a focus on resources for new Americans, including expanded bilingual resources.
Logan (1333 Wagner Ave.)
This library has a focus on family literacy and includes a new reading garden.
Tacony (6742 Torresdale Ave.)
There will be a new Small Business Resource Center. It was developed in response to the work of the Tacony Community Development Corporation, which has been working to establish the neighborhood as a quality destination for shopping and dining.