The Fretz Library, located in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a unique and specialized library that serves the local community with a wide range of resources and services. Established in 1959, the library has a long history of providing access to information and promoting literacy among residents of all ages. With a collection of over 40,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and DVDs, the Fretz Library is a valuable resource for anyone looking to explore new ideas, learn new skills, or simply enjoy some quiet time with a good book.
History and Mission
The Fretz Library was founded by a group of local residents who recognized the need for a community library in the area. The library was named after John Fretz, a prominent local businessman and philanthropist who donated the land and initial funding for the library. Over the years, the library has grown and evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, with a mission to provide free and equal access to information, promote literacy and lifelong learning, and foster a sense of community among residents.
Collection and Services
The Fretz Library offers a diverse collection of materials, including fiction and non-fiction books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and DVDs. The library also provides a range of services, including interlibrary loan, reference assistance, and programs for children and adults. Some of the notable services offered by the library include:
- Free Wi-Fi and computer access
- Printing, scanning, and faxing services
- Meeting rooms and study spaces
- Children's storytime and other youth programs
- Author readings and book clubs for adults
In addition to its physical collection and services, the Fretz Library also offers a range of digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, and online databases. These resources can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy for residents to access information and entertainment from the comfort of their own homes.
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 25,000 |
| Audiobooks | 5,000 |
| E-books | 10,000 |
| Movies and TV Shows | 2,000 |
| Music CDs | 1,500 |
Community Engagement
The Fretz Library is committed to community engagement and outreach, with a range of programs and services designed to promote literacy, education, and social connection among residents. Some of the ways the library engages with the community include:
- Partnering with local schools and organizations to provide literacy programs and services
- Hosting author readings, book clubs, and other literary events
- Offering computer classes and other digital literacy programs
- Providing meeting spaces and resources for community groups and organizations
The library also has a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a range of programs and services designed to support the needs of diverse communities. This includes collections and services in multiple languages, as well as programs and events that celebrate diverse cultures and perspectives.
Future Directions
As the Fretz Library looks to the future, it is committed to continuing its mission of providing free and equal access to information, promoting literacy and lifelong learning, and fostering a sense of community among residents. Some of the ways the library plans to achieve this include:
- Expanding its digital collections and services to meet the changing needs of the community
- Developing new programs and services to support emerging community needs
- Building partnerships with local organizations and agencies to support community development and social connection
- Continuing to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of its collections and services
With its rich history, diverse collections, and commitment to community engagement, the Fretz Library is a vibrant and essential part of the local community, providing a welcoming and inclusive space for residents of all ages to learn, grow, and connect.
What are the hours of operation for the Fretz Library?
+The Fretz Library is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
Does the Fretz Library offer free Wi-Fi and computer access?
+Yes, the Fretz Library offers free Wi-Fi and computer access to all patrons. Computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and Wi-Fi is available throughout the library.
Can I borrow e-books and audiobooks from the Fretz Library?
+Yes, the Fretz Library offers a wide range of e-books and audiobooks for borrowing. These can be accessed through the library’s digital collection, and can be downloaded to a variety of devices.
