Free Library After-School Attendance Jumps 54 Percent as Programs Expand

PHILADELPHIA — Attendance at the Free Library of Philadelphia’s after-school programs grew 54 percent, rising from 43,486 to 66,974, according to the library’s latest figures.

The growth reaches across the system. Preschool program attendance rose 20 percent, from 87,216 to 104,718, and attendance at school visits grew 23 percent. The library offered 31,247 programs in fiscal year 2026, up 24 percent from 25,260 two years earlier, drawing total program attendance of 578,877.

The after-school program, known as LEAP, runs on weekdays after school at library branches across the city and serves students in kindergarten through 12th grade. No registration is required, and it is free.

Students can bring homework questions ranging from early reading to calculus, PhillyVoice reported. The program also runs daily activities in literacy, science, technology, engineering, art, math and wellness, with schedules varying by branch.

The library also offers free online tutoring through Tutor.com from 9 a.m. to midnight for cardholders. The tutoring covers math, science, English, social studies, writing and college coursework in English and Spanish.

Adult learning grew as well. Programs for GED preparation, adult basic education and English language learning rose 89 percent, with attendance up 67 percent.

The city and the library are also investing in neighborhood library buildings, with upgrades to heating, cooling, safety and access planned in the coming months and years.

The library and its foundation are developing a new strategic plan, due in spring 2027, shaped by surveys and conversations with staff, patrons and community members.