Widener Branch Library

Widener Branch Library We are one of the many wonderful branches within the Free Library of Philadelphia system. 1901: Branch opens at 1200 N. Broad Street. Josephine Widener. Lehigh Ave

For more information about our library system, go to www.freelibrary.org Building was home of Peter A.B. Widener and donated as a memorial to his wife H. Peter was trustee of FLP, succeeded on the board by his son Joseph and later his grandson Harry (who died on the Titanic).

1934: Helen Ky. Yerkes Branch established at St. Bartholomew Episcopal Church (2425 W. Lehigh Ave)

1946: Widener Branch m

erged with Helen K. Yerkes Branch and took over Bankers' Trust building at 2531 W. Lehigh Ave

1960s: Branch became a reading room, staffed only by library technicians

1974: Branch closed for two years due to renovations

1976: Branch reopens with full service

2005: Branch opens at new building on 2808 W.

06/12/2026

Beat the heat tomorrow and join us for two great programs!

✨🖊️Afro Poetry, 11:30am 💜🖊️ Gather in community to celebrate and learn about Black and Brown ports! In honor of their artistic contributions, we'll read their work and write poetry from prompts inspired by their writing.

🪏🍓 Urban Gardening, 1pm 💚🌞 Join North Roots for a hands-on workshop where participants will learn about container gardening on your balcony, front porch, or kitchen window. Learn about the importance of sustainable living, have fun, and take a strawberry plant home with you!

Summer is around the corner! We have so many fun things happening in June and throughout the summer!✨Here are some highl...
05/29/2026

Summer is around the corner! We have so many fun things happening in June and throughout the summer!

✨Here are some highlights✨

🥣Cooking with Ms. Keisha- June 1, 3:30pm
🍪Kids Bake!- June 3 & 10, 3:30pm
📙Manga club- June 5, 12, & 26, 3pm
☀️Ultimate Summer Quest begins!- June 8
🖋️Afro Poetry- June 13, 11:30am
🍓 Urban Gardening- June 13, 1pm
🍴Summer meal program for children begins!- June 15, 12:30pm - 2pm
📘Talking Trash- June 20, 1pm
🫟 Summertime Slime- June 25, 2pm See less

Happening today at 1! See you there!
05/14/2026

Happening today at 1! See you there!

Upcoming program at Widener! Portfolio for Business Grants and Loans with partner Blew Kind. There is lots of money out there to start and support your business. Here we will learn what lenders are looking for and what is needed to get this together. You will leave with a few templates as well as organizations in Philadelphia that are awaiting your application.

Join North Roots on June 13th, 1:00 - 3:00, for a hands‑on workshop where participants will learn about container garden...
05/04/2026

Join North Roots on June 13th, 1:00 - 3:00, for a hands‑on workshop where participants will learn about container gardening on your balcony, front porch, or kitchen window. Learn about the importance of sustainable living, have fun, and take a strawberry plant home with you! Event will take place outdoors, weather permitting, please dress accordingly. Registration is required - email [email protected] to get your spot!

We're short on staff today and unable to open, BUT you can still pick up books. Thanks for understanding!
05/02/2026

We're short on staff today and unable to open, BUT you can still pick up books. Thanks for understanding!

Join Ms. Zenobia for a fun, hands‑on workshop where participants will create their own DIY sugar scrub to take home! Usi...
05/01/2026

Join Ms. Zenobia for a fun, hands‑on workshop where participants will create their own DIY sugar scrub to take home! Using natural ingredients, this program is a perfect way to pamper yourself, or make a thoughtful gift, just in time for Mother’s Day. Thursday, May 7, 2026 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

05/01/2026
Hi, everyone! Widener will opening late today due to staff shortage. We will continue to offer materials pick-up. Thank ...
05/01/2026

Hi, everyone! Widener will opening late today due to staff shortage. We will continue to offer materials pick-up. Thank you for understanding!

Address

2808 W Lehigh Avenue
Philadelphia, PA
19132

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 6pm
Tuesday 10am - 6pm
Wednesday 10am - 5pm
Thursday 10am - 5pm
Friday 10am - 5pm

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