Q. What is the David Center for the American Revolution?
A. The David Center for the American Revolution promotes innovative uses of the David Library’s collections for the study of the American Revolution. It was founded in 1959 by philanthropist Sol Feinstone, operated at Buckstone Farm at Washington’s Crossing, PA (the former home of Sol Feinstone), from 1974-2019, and moved to the American Philosophical Society in 2020. It is open to the public five days a week.
Q: Why is it called the David Center for the American Revolution?
A: Sol Feinstone named the original David Library in honor of his grandson, David Golub, who was born developmentally disabled. In establishing the David Center for the American Revolution, the American Philosophical Society reaffirms Feinstone’s commitment to the study of the revolutionary and founding era.
Q: Who are typical patrons of David Center resources at the American Philosophical Society Library? Is it only for scholars and academics?
A: The American Philosophical Society Library welcomes people interested in the study of the American Revolution from every background and level of academic accomplishment. Patrons include historians (both professional and amateur), doctoral candidates working on dissertations, college students, high school students, individuals researching their family histories, and anyone interested in the era of the American Revolution. No one should ever feel they are too inexperienced to make good use of David Center resources at the American Philosophical Society Library.
Q: Is the American Philosophical Society Library a lending library?
A: No. The American Philosophical Society Library is a “non-circulating” library. Patrons must use Library resources onsite.
Q: Where is the American Philosophical Society Library located?
A. The APS Library is located at 105 South 5th Street, Philadelphia 19106. It is across the street from Independence Hall. You can find a map here.
Q. Do I need an appointment to research at the American Philosophical Society?
A. You do not need an appointment to come to the APS, but if we know you are coming we can have materials ready for you. Information on how to register as a researcher at the APS Reading Room is available here. Please also take advantage of our Ask a Librarian feature to receive remote services.
Q. When will the David Center collections be accessible at the American Philosophical Society?
A. The collections are being packed up and moved in 2020. They will be made accessible at the American Philosophical Society as soon as possible. The Sol Feinstone manuscript collection is already accessible. The extensive microfilm collections are expected to be made available first, followed by the printed books and pamphlets.