Founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1731, the Library Company of Philadelphia was a learning community of citizens seeking to improve themselves and their city through discourse informed by shared books. Today, the Library Company continues this founding legacy as one of the world’s foremost research libraries for American history, culture, and society, stewarding collections of books and manuscripts, prints and photographs, and art and artifacts. As such, the Library Company connects premier collections, expert staff, an engaged public, and an exciting array of scholars, who together generate new scholarship, exhibitions, public programs, and online resources. We foster a learning community grounded in our historic collections that contributes to and amplifies knowledge of American culture and society and works for the benefit of all. The Library Company connects with thousands of visitors each year ensuring the lessons of the past instruct, amaze, and inspire future generations to come.