Dear Students and Colleagues, 

Over the last several months, we have taken part in conversations with the Library Company of Philadelphia, the oldest cultural institution in the United States and home to one of the most significant collections of historical materials and 17th-, 18th- and 19th-century books, manuscripts and graphics in the country, about a potential partnership. Since then, those conversations have led to consideration of a merger. 

For Temple, this is a tremendous opportunity. The Library Company is an iconic and historic Philadelphia institution, and a merger would further elevate our own library operations, enriching academic and research resources. This merger will also be accretive to Temple both programmatically and financially. This combination would also help bring stability to the Library Company and ensure its legacy lives on as a division of Temple University Libraries. 

Earlier this month, an important milestone was reached as the Library Company’s Board of Trustees voted to approve the affiliation. Later today, the shareholders of the Library Company will receive materials so they can prepare to vote on the agreement on Dec. 2. 

There is no overstating the significance of the Library Company and the key role it occupies as a cultural hallmark of the city of Philadelphia. From our perspective, this is a win-win for both organizations, as there are complementary strengths between the Library Company and Temple Libraries, both in holdings and in a Philadelphia-centered legacy and mission.  

Further, this combination will allow the two institutions to better advance and sustain their educational and civic missions for the collective benefit of Temple’s students and faculty, the Library Company’s members and users, and the city of Philadelphia. 

We will share more information with the Temple community as this potential merger progresses. 

Sincerely, 

John Fry 
President 

Joe Lucia 
Dean, Temple University Libraries