Museum Launches New “Revolution at the Library” Partnership with the Free Library of Philadelphia

Program Brings the Museum’s Diverse Storytelling to Libraries Across the City

The Museum of the American Revolution has launched Revolution at the Library, a new partnership with the Free Library of Philadelphia (FLP) to engage kids and families in the dynamic, diverse stories of the American Revolution. Families participating in the program also will receive a free visit to the Museum, with transportation provided. The project is supported by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Science (IMLS).

Throughout the summer, educators from the Museum will visit FLP neighborhood libraries across the city to present engaging stories about the diverse people and complex events of the American Revolution, accompanied by activities that allow families to build their skills and knowledge together. Programs are free to attend and do not require advance registration.

“We are thrilled to be able to take the Museum’s rich and complex storytelling beyond its walls and to meet community members where they are, thanks to this partnership with the Free Library and the support of IMLS,” said Adrienne Whaley, the Museum’s Director of Education and Community Engagement. “Bringing the Museum’s meaningful and engaging programming out into the community makes the Museum more accessible to all people. In this way, we can engage new audiences in a nuanced, inclusive telling of the Revolutionary story, especially those who might not expect to see themselves and their histories here.”

Aimed at elementary school students and their families, Revolution at the Library features hands-on, curiosity-sparking lessons that incorporate replica artifacts and documents that children can examine and explore. Program topics vary and include “What’s Under the Museum,” which unearths the treasures found during the archaeological excavation of the Museum’s site prior to its construction; “Life at Sea,” which explores what life was like for sailors on privateer ships or navy ships during the Revolutionary War; and “Spies,” which examines espionage in the Revolutionary era.

To continue their exploration, participants and their families also will receive free admission and transportation to the Museum on a set date.

Programs are currently planned for the following neighborhood libraries: Richmond, Paschalville, Northeast Regional, Torresdale, Oak Lane, Thomas F. Donatucci, Haddington, and Lucien E. Blackwell. Additional libraries will be added. Dates and times of each program are listed here: www.amrevmuseum.org/revolution-at-the-library.

Participants will be encouraged to make future Museum visits by taking advantage of opportunities to visit free of charge or at a reduced cost, including the Museum's Library Pass Program which allows patrons of more than 100 libraries to visit the Museum for free.

Revolution at the Library expands and enriches dedicated program offerings for children, young people, and their families as part of FLP’s LEAP program, a free drop-in program that provides homework assistance and activities for school-aged youth and their caregivers.

About the Free Library of Philadelphia
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.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America's museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. Our vision is a nation where museums and libraries work together to transform the lives of individuals and communities. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

About Museum of the American Revolution
The Museum of the American Revolution uncovers and shares compelling stories about the diverse people and complex events that sparked America’s ongoing experiment in liberty, equality, and self-government. Through the Museum’s unmatched collection, immersive galleries, powerful theater experiences, and interactive elements, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for how this nation came to be and feel inspired to consider their role in ensuring that the promise of the American Revolution endures. Located just steps away from Independence Hall, the Museum serves as a portal to the region’s many Revolutionary sites, sparking interest, providing context, and encouraging exploration. The Museum, which opened on April 19, 2017, is a private, non-profit, and non-partisan organization. For more information, visit www.AmRevMuseum.org or call 877.740.177