PHILADELPHIA– Today, Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton, Councilmember Kenyatta Johnson (2nd District), Senator Anthony Hardy Williams, Rebuild, the Free Library of Philadelphia (FLP), and community members gathered to cut the ribbon on the newly renovated Paschalville Library. The library received a $13.2 million transformation through the City’s Rebuild program.
“Pachalville Library has stood on Woodland Avenue, at the center of the Southwest Philadelphia community life, for more than a century,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “This $13.2 million project is an investment in a safe, modern facility, but most importantly, it’s an investment in every person who shows up to support their neighbors right here at the library.”
The present building – one of 25 historic Carnegie libraries in Philadelphia – has served the Paschalville and Elmwood communities since it opened its doors in 1915.
“With this new library, we have the kind of space that will help our young people to dream big and equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to live those dreams,” said Council President Kenyatta Johnson. “I am excited to see this facility reopen, and confident the positive impact will be felt in this community for the next 100 years.”
With cutting-edge technology and a new Media Hub made possible by a $200,000 donation from the Knight Foundation, this project bridges a historic legacy with spaces that support 21st-century programming.
The project also received a Department of Community & Economic Development grant totaling $150,000 and an additional donation of $75,000 from a private individual.
“It’s incredible to see this space come back to life for the children and families of Southwest Philadelphia,” said Joanna McClinton, Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. “When kids walk through these doors, they’re accessing opportunity, possibility, and a future without limits. I’m proud to celebrate this moment with the Paschalville community.”
The extensive $13.2 million renovation, completed in partnership and collaboration with BFW Group LLC, Southwest CDC, and Greater Philadelphia Community Alliance, includes:
- ADA upgrades, including ramp, elevator, and bathrooms
- New HVAC, plumbing, electric, fire alarm, and security systems
- New roof, windows, and doors
- Masonry restoration
- New patio, trees, and plants
- New Story Circle
- “Media Hub” classroom for public use
- Reconfigured the lower-level with a new large community space
- New furniture, paint, and flooring
- New Children’s, Adult’s, Computer, and Teen areas
The renovation was designed to preserve the building’s architectural legacy while working with staff and community to create spaces that support the robust programming the library is known for – including employment resources, skills training, after-school programs, reading circles, and much more. The job readiness program at Paschalville is one of the best in the City.
“Paschalville Library’s transformation demonstrates the enduring power of public libraries to bring people together,” said Kelly Richards, President and Director, the Free Library of Philadelphia. “This space now offers state-of-the-art accessibility and modern amenities while celebrating the historic character that has made it a neighborhood cornerstone for generations.”
By blending the library’s historic character with modern amenities and accessibility, we’ve created a space worthy of this community,” said Aparna Palantino, Deputy Managing Director, Capital Program Office. “Paschalville marks the sixth library Rebuild has renovated in 2025, representing over $37 million invested in Philadelphia’s library system this year; a milestone achievement in our effort to modernize public space in Philadelphia.”
This year alone, Rebuild has completed six renovation projects representing $37 million in investment in neighborhood libraries across the city, including the Blanche A. Nixon Library ($8.5 million), Kingsessing Library ($8 million), Lawncrest Library ($4.5 million), Richmond Library ($2.5 million), and Wynnefield Library ($1.4 million). From Southwest Philadelphia to Port Richmond, these renovations honor the architectural legacy of Philadelphia’s historic Carnegie libraries while equipping them to serve future generations.
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