The Library Company was founded in 1731 by Benjamin Franklin and a group of his friends as a subscription library. Mostly artisans and tradesmen of moderate means, Franklin and his friends pooled their resources -- by purchasing shares in the new “library company” -- to build a more comprehensive collection than any one of them could have afforded alone. Since that time, thousands of individuals have contributed to the Library Company by becoming members. You, too, can take part in this illustrious, centuries-old tradition.

 

Become a Shareholder in the Library Company with a one-time investment of $200. Your contribution will enable us to continue serving the public, free of charge, with wide-ranging reference services and quality cultural programming.

 

Every new Shareholder receives:

• our newsletter, the Occasional Miscellany, and the Annual Report

• 20% discount on Library Company publications and merchandise

• Invitations to exhibition openings, lectures, and special programs

• Invitation to the Annual Dinner and Annual Meeting

In following years, annual dues determine benefits. Shareholder dues start at $100.

 
If you would like to support the Library Company, but do not wish to become a Shareholder, you may become a Friend. Dues are just $75 per year.

 

Friends receive the following benefits:

• Subscription to our newsletter, the Occasional Miscellany, and the Annual Report
  

• Invitations to exhibition openings, lectures, and special programs
  

• 20% discount on Library Company publications and merchandise
  

• Invitation to the Annual Dinner and Annual Meeting

 

Membership in the Library Company makes a unique and memorable gift. Click here to purchase a membership as a gift.

 

Online payment Terms of Use

 

There are three easy ways you can become a member of the Library Company of Philadelphia:

 

1. JOIN ONLINE!

 

Purchase a Share ($200)

 

Become a Friend ($75)

 

2. DOWNLOAD THE PRINTABLE MEMBERSHIP FORM (PDF)

 

3. CALL AND JOIN WITH A CREDIT CARD

Call us at 215-546-3181 ext. 133

 

Already a Shareholder or Friend?
Click Here to renew your membership or to pay your annual dues.