William Penn Collection at Reading Public Library

William Penn Collection – On display through December 2024-25

Reading Public Library will be debuting their new collection of William Penn’s collective writings beginning this December.

In partnership with the institution’s sister library in the U.K., Reading Central Library of the U.K., the Reading Public Library’s new display will feature A Collection of the Works of William Penn, originally published in 1726. A 1700s indenture from King George III and a letter to Thomas and Richard Penn will also be featured in the collection. The display will be available for public viewing beginning this December through the end of 2025.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with our sister library in the U.K. to bring this vital piece of our collective history to life,” says Executive Director Melissa Adams. “We know displaying such historical documents provides a realistic glimpse into the past, and we are so grateful our friends in the U.K. have allowed us to borrow this treasured title.”

The two-volume collection is a comprehensive compilation of the writings of William Penn (1644–1718), the English Quaker and founder of the Pennsylvania Colony. It includes a variety of his works, such as essays, letters, and sermons, which offer insights into his religious beliefs, political ideas, and vision for a just and peaceful society.

A digitized archive of the William Penn collection from the University of Pittsburgh as well as the indenture and Penn documents can be found below.

Pictured above: a 1700s indenture from King George III.

Pictured above: A letter to Thomas and Richard Penn, the sons of William Penn, signed by James Hamilton, Esquire, in 1753.