Benefits of Membership

The Free Library Foundation is pleased to offer two distinct annual membership programs.

Membership Options

George S. Pepper Society

Premier membership

Raven Society

Young professionals

In 1891, philanthropist George S. Pepper made a transformational gift to establish the Free Library of Philadelphia and the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation. Today, inspired by its namesake’s generosity, the George S. Pepper Society brings together passionate individuals who share his vision of a rich and vibrant library accessible to all. This premier membership provides highest-level access to the Free Library’s programs and special collections throughout the city.

President’s Circle | $1,500-$2,499
Join or Renew

100% tax-deductible

Author Events series benefits, including:
- Advance season announcements and presale ticket access
- Reserved seating at Author Events with pre-purchased or reserved tickets±
Invitations to exclusive events and programming
Subscriptions to monthly e-newsletters, including members-only Back to the Stacks
Recognition in the annual Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation’s Impact Report

Beatrix Potter Circle | $2,500-$4,999
Join or Renew

100% tax-deductible

All President’s Circle benefits
Private behind-the-scenes tours of various library branches and departments

Edgar Allan Poe Circle | $5,000-$9,999
Join or Renew

All but $550 is tax-deductible

All Beatrix Potter Circle benefits
Two complimentary tickets to all Author Event programs*

Charles Dickens Circle | $10,000-$24,999
Join or Renew

All but $550 is tax-deductible

All Edgar Allan Poe Circle benefits
Copy of annual One Book, One Philadelphia selection

Elkins Circle | $25,000 and above
Join or Renew

All but $780 is tax-deductible

All Charles Dickens Circle benefits
Private lunch for two with the Free Library Foundation’s President
Private librarian-led tour of a neighborhood library for up to fifteen guests, upon request
Opportunity to introduce an author in the Author Events series±

For more information, please contact The Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation at 215-814-3524 or membership@freelibrary.org

Check out our Flickr account for event pictures!

± Advance reservation required, subject to availability.
* Advance reservations are required and subject to availability; book purchase required for select bundled Author Events

Under IRS rules, donors may not receive benefits as a result of a gift made through a third-party funding source (i.e. donor advised funds, family foundations, United Way). Payments cannot be made toward the tax-deductible portion of a gift through a third-party when there is an associated non-deductible portion. If you wish to participate in a membership society and receive benefits, you may not make the payment through a third-party; the entire amount must be paid personally. If you choose to waive benefits, you may make payment through a third-party but must confirm in writing that no benefits will be received. For more information, please contact the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation at membership@freelibrary.org or 215-814-3524.

The Raven Society brings together young professionals from across Philadelphia who share a passion for supporting the work of the Free Library of Philadelphia. Ravens gain unique access and insider insights on the critical work of the Free Library through behind-the-scenes tours of special collections and exhibitions, and social, educational, and networking events throughout the year.

Raven Society Supporters Circle | $100-$299
Join or Renew

100% tax-deductible

Invitations to exclusive Raven Society events and programming, including annual Ravens on the Rooftop and Poe Party
Subscriptions to two monthly e-newsletters: Footnotes, and the members-only Back to the Stacks
Recognition in the annual Free Library Foundation’s Impact Report