Philadelphia Bahá’í

Resources

The Philadelphia Bahá’í Community Library

Over 2,000 books on the Bahá’í Faith, history, theology, and more — open to all.

Welcome

About the Library

The community library holds over 2,000 books and other items covering the Bahá’í scriptures, the history of the Bahá’í Faith, journals, essays, theology, biography and maps. It is located on the second floor of the Bahá’í Center and is normally open on Tuesdays from 10:00 to 2:00 and other times by appointment.

There is also a branch of the Library at the Revell House in North Philadelphia which holds select materials related to the early history of the Faith in Philadelphia and which can be consulted on site when visiting that location.

Directions

The library is located within the Philadelphia Bahá’í Center at 2462 Bryn Mawr Avenue, Philadelphia, 19131 just a few steps from the Route 65 bus stop on City Line Avenue. There is ample parking on the street.

Borrowing Books

Visitors wishing to withdraw books for study may do so by visiting with the Librarian to apply for borrowing privileges. Circulating items can be borrowed for up to three weeks.

Contact the Library

For questions, appointments, or borrowing privileges — reach out to our librarian.

Librarian

James Tichenor

(215) 760‑2983

Hours

Tuesdays, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Other times by appointment

Study & research

Resources

Browse our catalog, explore periodical collections, or arrange a research session.

Main Catalog

By Author

Browse the full collection alphabetically by author name

Coming soon

By Title

Search titles across the entire library catalog

Coming soon

Biography

Biographical works on figures in Bahá’í history

Coming soon

Children’s Materials

Books and resources for young readers

Coming soon

Persian & Arabic

Works in Persian and Arabic languages

Coming soon

Periodicals

The Library maintains a number of periodical collections, including original copies of the Bahá’í World.

The American Bahá’íBahá’í NewsJournal of Bahá’í StudiesPhiladelphia Bahá’í BulletinStar of the WestBahá’í World

Research & Study

The Library is accessible to area colleges and universities for research and study. Advanced scholars as well as beginning students are welcome to use the collection.

Special collections include materials on the history of the Bahá’í Faith in Philadelphia, historic maps, and other archival items. Small group study sessions can be arranged by contacting the librarian in advance.

Bahá’í calligraphy

Visit the Library

Whether you’re looking to borrow a book, do research, or simply explore — you are warmly invited.