Power Up! Civic Awareness with the Free Library - Hosted by Dr. Aaron Smith !

Power Up! Civic Awareness with the Free Library - Hosted by Dr. Aaron Smith!

Image generated with artificial intelligence to represent a person at a Power Up event

This fall, the Free Library of Philadelphia is teaming up with Temple University’s Dr. Aaron Smith, an Assistant Professor of Africology and African American Studies, to present an enlightening six-part series titled “Power Up!”

These six workshops aim to equip Philadelphians with the knowledge and tools to become more involved in their communities. From understanding citizenship rights to exploring the workings of democracy, each session is designed to spark meaningful discussions and inspire action.

Dr. Aaron Smith, photo credit to The Philadelphia Tribune.

Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

Citizenship: Privileges, Rights, and Responsibilities

Kick off Civic Awareness Month by learning about the fundamentals of citizenship. Learn about your rights and responsibilities and how you can play an active role in shaping your community.
When: Saturday, September 7 at 11:00 a.m.
Where: Lillian Marrero Library

Democracy is an Action Word

Discover how you can be a force for change in local, state, and federal governments. This session will explore ways to become politically empowered and engaged.
When: Tuesday, September 10 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Joseph E. Coleman Northwest Regional Library

We the People

Elections matter—especially local ones. In this session, discuss how local elections impact our daily lives and how you can make your voice heard.
When: Saturday, September 14 at 11:00 a.m.
Where: Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library

Let Freedom Ring

Learn how laws at all levels—local, state, and federal—affect you and how you can navigate them for your benefit.
When: Tuesday, September 17 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: South Philadelphia Library

Your Call to Civic Action

This workshop focuses on how you can leverage your unique talents to make a positive impact in Philadelphia.
When: Saturday, September 21 at 11:00 a.m.
Where: Northeast Regional Library

2024 Philly Civics Fair and Speakers Panel

Meet local community organizations, learn about their work, and discover how you can get involved. This event is a must-attend for anyone looking to make a difference in Philadelphia.
When: Saturday, September 28 at 9:00 a.m.
Where: Parkway Central Library

The Free Library’s “Power Up!” is a call to action. The civic awareness initiative’s overall goal is to increase local citizen’s understanding of the systems that govern us while actively participating in processes that shape society. Whether attending a workshop, joining a discussion, or simply learning something new, every effort contributes to building a stronger, more connected Philadelphia.

The Free Library of Philadelphia is creating spaces for learning, dialogue, and community building. Together, we can forge a shared vision for the future that is inclusive, informed, and driven by the power of collective action.