Franklin Built Philly's Oldest Library | Philadelphia News

Benjamin Franklin didn’t just invent lightning rods and bifocals—he founded America’s oldest cultural institution, the Library Company of Philadelphia, in 1731. At just 25, he rallied fellow thinkers to pool money and buy European books, creating a public library ahead of its time. Shareholders borrowed volumes (with deposits), and during the Revolutionary War, even Continental Congress delegates used it—making it the unofficial Library of Congress. After moving through several locations, it settled on Locust Street, evolving into a research gem where you can still see Franklin’s electrostatic machine. Still growing today, it welcomes all for free exhibitions—even if reading rooms require appointments. Franklin’s legacy? He built institutions that still shape our nation. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/5042dfefd95013da