PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania (WPVI) — Philadelphia students created the ‘DreamEscape Library’ inside their school to provide a sanctuary to read, write, and dream of their future.
The idea came about in the 2023-2024 school year when students and staff set their sights on vying for the Philly Service Award.
The students decided to tackle the issue of literacy.
Not only did their school lack a library, but Philadelphia schools at large have been facing a shortage of “full-time certified librarians.” According to various sources, such as this report by WHYY, there are only a small handful of librarians left in the district.
The students started the library with some hard work, dedication, and a seed grant.
Then, they won first place in the Philly Service Award’s ‘Young Entrepreneurs’ category for 2024, netting them $20,000 to turn this dream into a reality.
In the ‘DreamEscape Library,’ student government members facilitate the rental and return of books while also stocking shelves and maintaining a website.
They hope for it to grow into a space where students can dream and escape into the pages of a book.
To learn more, watch the video above and visit their website.
RELATED: Philadelphia students suit up to become ‘Distinguished Young Gentlemen’ in afterschool club
In a classroom full of students wearing suits and ties, West Philadelphia teacher Dwayne Frazier is teaching skills to last a lifetime.
Copyright © 2025 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.