Cecil B. Moore Library is a branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia located at 2320 Cecil B. Moore Avenue in North Central Philadelphia. Named in 1987 to honor civil rights activist Cecil Bassett Moore, the library serves the Strawberry Mansion, Brewerytown, Sharswood, and Johnson Homes communities. It offers free access to books, computers, programs, and community resources for all ages.
The mission of the Free Library of Philadelphia is to advance literacy, guide learning, and inspire curiosity. Its vision is to build an enlightened community devoted to lifelong learning.
Originally opened as the Columbia Avenue Branch on April 10, 1962, the library was renamed Cecil B. Moore Library in 1987 to honor the lawyer, civil rights activist, and NAACP president who led the fight to integrate Girard College. The branch features notable artwork including a mural titled "Let Beauty Fill Their Eyes" painted by David Lawrence and Rhasaan Fort in 2000, and a 1963 mosaic by Edna Andrade called "Integration of Science and Art." The library was renovated in 1996 as part of the "Changing Lives" campaign.
Cecil B. Moore Library offers diverse programming for all ages, including cooking classes, computer basics instruction, arts and crafts workshops (junk journaling, clay sculpture, mosaics), STEM activities, storytimes for young children, sensory playtime, summer reading programs, and community events. The library also hosts pop-up services from community partners and provides space for meetings and gatherings.
The library hosts regular events throughout the year, including weekly storytimes, arts and crafts sessions, computer classes, and seasonal programs. Upcoming events feature cooking with Ms. Keisha, junk journaling, clay workshops, science activities, puzzle meet-ups, and summer reading initiatives. Events are designed for various age groups from preschoolers to seniors.
Cowrie Shell Heritage Jewelry and Painting Workshop
One-on-one and small group help with e-mails, desktop computers, writing documents, printing, and more. This program meets from 10am to 2pm.
Sensory play encourages children to explore and discover new sensations, materials, and experiences, fostering curiosity and learning. Activites will include the use of kinetic sand, clay, DIY fidget spinners, and sensory bins. This program is intended for children, ages 2-10.
