Postcard, "The Free Library of Philadelphia, Manayunk Branch, Fleming and Dupont Streets," circa 1915

Summary

Until the 20th century, most book collections were not available to everyday Americans. They were either privately owned, accessible only by paid subscription, or stored away haphazardly. In some communities, wealthy citizens funded libraries. Philadelphia philanthropist George Seckel Pepper bequeathed $225,000 to establish The Free Library of Philadelphia in 1889. Over time, the Free Library system grew to include many neighborhood branches.

Until the 20th century, most book collections were not available to everyday Americans. They were either privately owned, accessible only by paid subscription, or stored away haphazardly. In some communities, wealthy citizens funded libraries. Philadelphia philanthropist George Seckel Pepper bequeathed $225,000 to establish The Free Library of Philadelphia in 1889. Over time, the Free Library system grew to include many neighborhood branches.

Artifact

Postcard

Subject Date

circa 1915

 On Exhibit

By Request in the Benson Ford Research Center

Object ID

87.9.23.288

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Paper (Fiber product)

Technique

Printing (Process)

Color

Black-and-white (Colors)

Dimensions

Height: 3.375 in

Width: 5.375 in

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