Colbert Collection at the Rosenbach

Take the historic house tour, featuring dozens of antiques and a library chock-full of priceless books. Then, check out our exhibition galleries: topics range from the Civil War to Maurice Sendak. Don’t forget to visit our shop, specializing in gifts for literary lovers of all ages.

The Rosenbach of the Free Library of Philadelphia is a rare book museum and library. It features famous works like Where the Wild Things Are by children's author Maurice Sendak to the original handwritten copy of Ulysses by James Joyce. The museum hosts themed festivals, musical performances and guided tours. Travelers who enjoy books, English literature and the history that goes with it will be astonished at this museum's offerings.Best and worst time to go to the Rosenbach of the Free Library of PhiladelphiaThe best time to go to the Rosenbach is during the second week of June for the annual week-long Bloomsday Festival. This celebration of James Joyce culminates in a live reading of excerpts of Ulysses by famous Philadelphians.The worst time to attend the Rosenbach is the third week of June when it only offers partial hours due to fundraising events that are private following the Bloomsday festivities.Must see/do at the Rosenbach of the Free Library of PhiladelphiaThe most popular activity is to make an appointment to see the handwritten manuscript of James Joyce's Ulysses. Visitors and scholars from all over the world make this special trip all year-round.Guided docent tours of the historic 19th century house are very popular and take place every hour the museum is open. On this journey, visitors will be treated to Dr. Rosenbach's rare library, art and antiques including the recreation of the Greenwich Village living room of poet Marianne Moore.For families or visitors that still cherish childhood memories, the Maurice Sendak collection features selected drawings and other items the author collected throughout his lifetime.Admission to the Rosenbach of the Free Library of Philadelphia:The price for admission to the Rosenbach is $10 and under and it includes exhibitions and a guided house tour. Groups of 10 or more must make a reservation.Parking and public transportation to the Rosenbach Free Library of Philadelphia:There is plenty of metered street parking around the Rosenbach. There are quite a few commercial parking garages on 20th and 21st Streets.Food at the Rosenbach Free Library of Philadelphia:Food is not permitted on the premises of the museum. There are many cafes, famous restaurants and food trucks within blocks. There are a couple of parks, like Rittenhouse Square or Fitler Square, with benches and fountains in walking distance, if visitors want to grab food and sit outside.Insider tip for visitors to the Rosenbach of the Free Library of Philadelphia:Many visitors are not aware the Rosenbach has a Musician in Residence. The great jazz musician Dave Burrell is often featured. Burrell's performances are a concert series that accompanies a particular current exhibit. To make this a destination stop when on vacation, check the website for more.Author's bio: Stasia DeMarco is a native Philadelphian. She has been a freelance journalist and digital media specialist for 20 years.