As we head into 2025, the Free Library of Philadelphia continues to define what it means to be a library in the 21st century, not only by providing access to books, but also incredible resources and programs that advance literacy, guide learning, inspire curiosity, and help to build an enlightened community devoted to lifelong learning. Your Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation membership helps preserve and grow these vital resources and programs that positively impact our city. We are pleased to offer a variety of distinct options, each with an assortment of special benefits. Here is some information to help you choose which one is right for you!
The George S. Pepper Society
“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 the highest level of access to the Free Library’s programs and special collections throughout the city, such as concierge services, invitations to exclusive tours and Pepper Society events, advanced ticketing to Author Series events with reserved seating, subscriptions to two monthly e-newsletters (Footnotes, and the members-only Back to the Stacks), and so much more! There are five distinct Pepper Society membership options to select from, including the Presidents Circle, Beatrix Potter Circle, Poe Circle, Dickens Circle, and Elkins Circle, based on the level of your gift. Each tier offers a list of rare advantages, for example, complimentary Authors Series tickets, the chance to introduce a celebrated author, and donor recognition on signage at the Parkway Central Library.
The Raven Society
“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 membership levels include the Supporter’s Circle and the Patron’s Circle. Both include invitations and discounts to special events, like the Poe Party, Ravens on the Rooftop, exhibition openings and tours, Author Series happy hours, One Book, One Philadelphia programming, Rosenbach partner events, and Raven Society Volunteer Day, as well as subscriptions to Footnotes and Back to the Stacks, presale access and reserved seating at Author Series events, advance ticketing to select Culinary Literacy Center classes, and recognition in the Foundation’s Development Report. When you opt for a Raven Society Patron’s Circle membership, you’ll also get a copy of the annual One Book, One Philadelphia selection, tours of the Free Library’s Rare Book Department (upon request), and the opportunity to introduce an author at an Author Series program.
The Knee-Hi Society
“In 1938, Philadelphia public school principal Dr. George E. Brunson visited the Free Library with Knee-Hi, his wire-haired terrier, to assist with a summer reading initiative. Ever since, Knee-Hi has been lovingly referred to as the Free Library’s mascot. In the spirit of Knee-Hi and Dr. Brunson, the Knee-Hi Society provides parents and children unparalleled access to the Free Library’s literacy resources through fun family activities, insider publications, and invitations to special events.”
If you are a family with kids aged 12 and under, membership in the Knee-Hi Society Supporters Circle or Patrons Circle comes with lots of amazing perks. We’re talking quarterly book lists from children’s librarians at the Free Library, a copy of the annual One Book, One Philadelphia children’s companion book (Knee-Hi Society Patrons Circle membership also includes a copy of the adult and youth selections), recognition in the Foundation’s Development Report, subscriptions to both Footnotes and Back to the Stacks, and advance ticketing to select Culinary Literacy Center classes, including children’s classes. But that’s not all! You’ll also get early access to Author Series event announcements and tickets, with reserved seating when there’s a sold-out crowd (with pre-purchased or reserved tickets). As a bonus, Patrons Circle members get a bookplate in their family’s name placed within a circulating book in the Free Library’s system.
We invite you to become a Foundation Member in 2025, and thank you in advance for your support! More information on how to join and all the unique benefits of the George S. Pepper Society, the Raven Society, and the Knee-Hi Society can be found here on our website.
The Free Library is one of the most important educational and cultural institutions in Philadelphia. While the City of Philadelphia provides public funds for the operations of the Free Library, it is through The Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation and the generosity of private funding from individuals, foundations, and corporations that the Free Library is able to offer many of the Library’s incredible programs and activities that advance literacy, guide learning, inspire curiosity throughout the region, and help deliver on the promise of an equitable future for all of Philadelphia’s children, families, and communities.