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Spreading Holiday Cheer Through Literacy and Community: A Visit to Interim House West

Marvin DeBose & Christina Holmes

 (Branch Manager @ Haverford Library)     (Children Librarian @ Overbrook Park)

Spreading Holiday Cheer Through Literacy and Community: A Visit to Interim House West

During the holiday season, the spirit of giving and community support is more important than ever. On Saturday, December 20 of last year, the Free Library of Philadelphia and Mt. Olive Lodge #27, Prince Hall Affiliated Masons, brought that spirit to life through a heartfelt outreach program at Interim House West Inc.

Located at 4108 Parkside Avenue in West Philadelphia, Interim House West is a residential shelter that provides care and support for mothers and their children who are healing from substance use and domestic abuse. The shelter offers not only a safe haven but also a path toward stability and self-sufficiency for families in need.

Representing the Free Library of Philadelphia, Marvin DeBose and Christina Holmes arrived with a meaningful gift for every child at the shelter: a brand-new book. These simple but powerful gifts brought smiles and sparked curiosity—planting seeds of imagination and literacy that can last a lifetime.

In addition to distributing books, Marvin and Christina set up a display table with Free Library promotional materials and spent time talking with residents and staff about the many services the library offers. From early literacy programs and job search resources to free computer access and educational workshops, the library is a vital resource for families and individuals across the city.

Perhaps most heartwarming was the commitment to continue this connection beyond the holidays. Marvin and Christina offered to return to Interim House West for future storytime sessions, keeping the door open for ongoing engagement and support.

At its heart, this outreach was more than a seasonal gesture—it was a reminder that libraries are not just places for books, but pillars of community, learning, and hope.

We’re proud to support partnerships like this one, and we thank our friends at Mt. Olive Lodge #27 for joining us in this meaningful work.