The Chestnut Hill Library begins repair works after a section of the building's ceiling collapsed in November

Repairs to the Chestnut Hill Library have finally begun, after a section of the building's ceiling collapsed in late November. These works are hoped to be completed in early January 2023. During this time, the branch will remain closed, and all existing holds have been transferred to the Lovett branch, located at 6945 Germantown Avenue.

The Chestnut Hill Conservancy has begun working with the Library to evaluate the building's issues and identify necessary repairs.

More information about the building

The Chestnut Hill branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia is the second library to stand at 8711 Germantown Avenue. Constructed of Wissahickon Schist, it replaced the Christian Hall Library Company of Chestnut Hill, a private library founded in 1872 by Henry J. Williams. The Free Library of Philadelphia assumed control of the Company by February, 1897 and replaced Christian Hall with the current building, designed by Cope and Stewardson. It was completed in 1907 but was not opened to the public until almost two years later. The building has seen two major changes since its completion. In 1992, a back room was added to serve as a community multi-purpose room, and in 1999, the library’s interior was renovated.