The Free Library

Today we went out for our first field trip. After having a stress-free morning, we headed for the Free Library of Philadelphia, The library, which was founded by Dr. Pepper (not the one who founded the soft drink!) in the 1890ies, has become one of the symbols of Philadelphia. During the past decade, the library has expanded a lot, and, thanks to the Free Library system, Philadelphia is now the American city with highest density of libraries. On average, you will find a public library on every seventh block!

We went in for a guided tour, and luckily the guide was charismatic. As part of the institute we are attending speech classes four days a week. There we learn how to analyze speeches and learn tricks for improving our presentations skills. With that subject in our mind, it was apparent for many of us that the laughter was our guide’s special trick for getting attention. The man smiled and laughed all the time!

In the library, we were oriented about the library’s wide range of offers. Their current flagship project was called “One book, one Philadelphia”. From January to March they were going to promote reading and libraries by encouraging everyone in Philadelphia to read and discuss a single book. Therefore, they are spending several millions on plenty of commercials, seminar, stands and conferences to reach their target. Last year, “The Soloist”, which is a part of our program’s curriculum, was their book of choice, and the project turned out to be a great success. Moreover, we also got information about the civic engagement which takes place in the library. Among other things, some of the institute participants are teaching children in reading and math in the library as their volunteer work.

It was an interesting trip, and you should have a look on the pictures from today. They are coming soon!

Mats