After seeing the redesign plans for McPherson Square Park and Library, residents asked for more shade, and requested the library stay open during construction.
Backpack season is underway! We’ve got lots of places for you to scoop up new school supplies before classes start – plus a few opportunities to get wet and cool off on hot days.
McPherson Square Library, which has been closed since June 21st due to a broken air conditioning system, may reopen by next Tuesday in time for a meeting with the City of Philadelphia’s Rebuild program.
Otherwise, check out our photos of the event below... 👇
Kids play together during a “Community Water Gun” Fight at Harrowgate Park on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Solmaira Valerio)Kids play together during the “Community Water Gun Fight” at Harrowgate Park on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Solmaira Valerio)Harrowgate Civic Association members play with kids during the “Community Water Gun Fight” at Harrowgate Park on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Solmaira Valerio)Families play together during the “Community Water Gun Fight” at Harrowgate Park on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Solmaira Valerio)Community members ride the swings during the “Community Water Gun Fight” at Harrowgate Park on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Solmaira Valerio)Kids wait in line for a water slide during a “Community Water Gun Fight” at Harrowgate Park on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Solmaira Valerio)Margarita Gozales, a community Coordinator and connector with Impact Services, poses for a portrait after providing residents with free food at the “Community Water Gun Fight” at Harrowgate Park on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Solmaira Valerio)Free hotdogs are provided during the “Community Water Gun Fight” at Harrowgate Park on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Solmaira Valerio)Community members play during the “Community Water Gun Fight” at Harrowgate Park on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Solmaira Valerio)Kids and parents play during the “Community Water Gun Fight” at Harrowgate Park on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Solmaira Valerio)Community members play in the “Community Water Gun Fight” at Harrowgate Park on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Solmaira Valerio)Marcus (left) laughs with his brother Thomas during the “Community Water Gun Fight” at Harrowgate Park on August 17, 2024. (Photo by Solmaira Valerio)
Solmaira Valerio is a North Philly–born photographer and musician whose work draws on their cultural roots to capture the energy, vulnerability, and authenticity of communities while challenging stereotypes and stigma.
The 2025 Norris Square Neighborhood Profile sought to capture information on the area’s population, quality of life, and economic status and spark dialogue among community leaders and residents.
