Free Library of Philadelphia

The gorgeous Beaux-Arts building along the culture-heavy Benjamin Franklin Parkway serves as the heart of the Free Library of Philadelphia system, which includes more than 50 branches around the city.

In addition to typical library activities — checking out and returning books — visitors to the Parkway Central Library can explore a massive collection that boasts some notable and rare works, such as collections of Edgar Allan Poe, Beatrix Potter and medieval manuscripts.

The Map Collection opens up a world of more than 130,000 current and historical maps.

Also, the library’s Music Department contains one of the largest music and dance materials in the country, featuring more than 100,000 volumes.