The Library Company has collected graphic materials throughout its long history. A separate Print & Photograph Department was formed in 1971 to manage, provide access to, and more actively develop the Library Company's graphics holdings. Specializing in works by Philadelphia photographers and printmakers, and images that document the city of Philadelphia, the collection visually records the history of the Philadelphia area from the late 17th to the mid 20th century. The image collections are especially strong in the documentation of Philadelphia architecture and urban development, Philadelphia social and political life, and the early history of photography in the city. In addition to Philadelphia area materials, the graphic collections include historical and commemorative prints, portraits, and political cartoons documenting American history at the national level from the 18th through the early 20th centuries. The graphics collections contain approximately 75,000 items including prints, photographs, maps, political cartoons, and original drawings and watercolors.

 

The Print & Photograph Department maintains a separate reading room for researchers. A growing number of descriptive records for and digital images of graphic materials are available on our online catalog WolfPAC and our digital collections catalog ImPAC. Additional finding aids are available on the Print Department section of the website and/or on-site. Visit Access for additional information on accessing graphic materials and digital collections; or Rights and Reproductions for reproduction policies, price list, and request form.