Free Library of Philadelphia

Located right across from Logan Square in the Museum District of Philadelphia is the "Free Library of Philadelphia".  This massive building still functions as a regular library for the area.  However, there is a great amount of historic value to it as well.  While it was originally located in a few rooms inside of city hall, it now resides in the current gorgeous structure of today and has been there since 1927.

The rare book department held inside is one of the largest in the country, which is always bringing academics to the area for research.  Tours are offered of the rare book department for anyone that is interested, and should be scheduled in advance.  There is also a plan to expand the library structure in 2012 with an atrium-style addendum on the back side.

At the entrance to the building is also one of the 20 Philly Phanatics around town that we've been photographing this summer.  This one is "dressed up" like an astronaut.

Right across the street from the library is a Shakespeare Memorial.  For anyone that has been a fan of this Englishman's plays, you should probably give it a look-see if you're in the area.