The Academy of Natural Sciences museum is set to close its doors to the public in a week. But as soon as Drexel University announced plans earlier this month to close the museum and move its archives to the university, a coalition of scientists, museum professionals, and supporters formed the Save the Academy Coalition in an effort to push for more information, and find solutions to keep the museum open. Museum Council of Greater Philadelphia president Alex Palma joins us to discuss the situation.

There’s a historic building on Broad Street, just a few blocks south of City Hall, that many Philadelphians may only know as an exclusive hotel. But Around the Block reporter Alisha Miranda recently took a tour of this spot, and found out how it plays a unique role in Philadelphia’s story as a city known for its dining and hospitality. Alisha brings us this story.

It’s the back to school season, and many students at Philadelphia public schools are back in the classroom interacting with their new teachers and classmates. But if they head down the hall to check out a book from the school library, they might not be able to – because years of budget cuts and staffing changes have left most Philly public schools without a certified librarian. Around the Block reporter Milan Parker reports that some community groups are stepping in to fill the gap.

Philadelphia is a historic city filled with historic buildings, but Philadelphia City Council is considering legislation that could alter Philadelphia’s ability to protect these buildings by changing the way historic preservation works in the city, a group of community members and organizations have been pushing back, and have formed a stop demolishing Philly coalition. Around the block reporter Winter Schneider brings us this story about what’s at stake.

Philadelphia City Council is considering ways to make schools equitable for all Philadelphians. This month’s council education meeting held hearings on two issues. One looked at students of color and students with disabilities being excluded and expelled from preschools. The other explored the fact that not every eighth grader in the city has access to an Algebra One course. Councilman Isaiah Thomas is chair of City Council’s Education Committee, and he is joining us live in the studio, along with Symbol Lai, policy director for Children First.

Starr Garden Rec Center & Playground in Philadelphia’s Society Hill neighborhood has a reputation as a welcoming space for LGTBQIA+ Philadelphians thanks to events programming, and well-trained staff. Starr Garden Recreation Leader Chloe Harris talks about what it takes to make community spaces feel inclusive.