Wynnefield Community Members and City & State Officials Celebrate the Rebuild renovation of Wynnefield Library’s Courtyard with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

After Photos Available Here

PHILADELPHIA, PA - Today, City officials, the Free Library of Philadelphia, Rebuild, and Wynnefield community members gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the transformation of the Wynnefield Library's courtyard. This project was made possible through Rebuild Philadelphia, a historic investment of over $500 million into 72 neighborhood parks, recreation centers, and libraries.

"When residents walk into the new courtyard, they will immediately feel the difference," said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. "It's green, it's open, it's welcoming - and it belongs to the Wynnefield community. Families now have a safe, beautiful space to read outside, neighbors can catch up under the trees, and kids can play and learn in the fresh air."

Through a partnership with the Wynnefield Residents Association, a $40,000 grant was secured from the PA Department of Community and Economic Development's (DCED) Keystone Communities Grant Program to help make this courtyard renovation possible.

"The Wynnefield Library serves as a vital gateway to opportunity for our Wynnefield community," said Councilmember Curtis Jones Jr. (4th District). "These courtyard improvements ensure that everyone, regardless of mobility or age, can access the facility safely and take advantage of the revitalized outdoor spaces for learning and connection."

Wynnefield Library received a complete renovation of the exterior courtyard, transforming the space with:

• New landscaping and hardscaping
• A refreshed exterior wall
• Site regrading
• ADA upgrades
• Cameras & lighting

This project was part of ongoing improvements to the library that included roof repairs completed in 2019.

"The Wynnefield Library courtyard transformation is a powerful example of how the city is making public spaces of all shapes and sizes more accessible and welcoming," said Aparna Palantino, Deputy Managing Director, Capital Program Office. "The renovated site demonstrates our promise to provide clean, green, and safe spaces for all."

Wynnefield Library is known for its diverse programming, offering something for every age. From knitting groups to story time circles, this neighborhood hub has an enhanced space to expand its programming offerings.

"Libraries are essential resources communities depend on every day," said Kelly Richards, President and Director, the Free Library of Philadelphia. "This renovation creates a vital outdoor learning space where community members can connect with nature, engage with neighbors, and access programming in fresh air-expanding how we serve our community beyond traditional walls."

Rebuild is the City's historic investment of over $500 million in neighborhood parks, recreation centers, and libraries across Philadelphia. Rebuild promises to acknowledge history, engage the community, and invest intentionally to uplift pivotal community spaces, empower neighborhoods, and promote access to economic opportunity for all.

The Free Library of Philadelphia system, with 54 locations and The Rosenbach, advances literacy, guides learning, and inspires curiosity with millions of digital and physical materials; 31,000 yearly programs and workshops; free public computers and extensive Wi-Fi, and rich special collections, including those at the Parkway Central Library and at The Rosenbach. With more than 5 million in-person visits and 5 million more online annually, the Free Library and The Rosenbach are among the most widely used educational and cultural institutions in Philadelphia and boast a worldwide impact.