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Feature Last updated on September 16, 2025

Calling Libraries: Bring TED Democracy LIVE to Your Area

Sign up to livestream TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures at your library ...

Photo by S. Ramones for Visit Philadelphia
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We're excited to share an incredible opportunity with you. Philadelphia is celebrating America's 250th anniversary with TED Democracy, a series of events focused on the future of democracy.

TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures

On Saturday, June 13, 2026, TED Democracy culminates with a massive, daylong symposium showcasing ideas and solutions designed to inform and inspire.

This thought-provoking event features 15 brand-new, democracy-focused TED Talks delivered in Philadelphia, the birthplace of modern democracy, and will be livestreamed across the nation.

You can find out more information about TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures by clicking here.

A moderator leads a conversation with two speakers on stage in front of a seated audience during a TED Democracy Fireside Chat inside Reading Terminal Market. A moderator leads a conversation with two speakers on stage in front of a seated audience during a TED Democracy Fireside Chat inside Reading Terminal Market.

TED Democracy Fireside Chat 3   — Photo by Visit Philadelphia

TED Democracy LIVE

We are looking for 50-plus libraries across the country to host satellite events that will livestream TED Democracy Philadelphia: Founding Futures and bring these crucial conversations to every state and territory in the U.S.

Libraries play a vital role in supporting and strengthening democracy by promoting access to information, fostering critical thinking, encouraging civic engagement and protecting intellectual freedom.

Visit Philadelphia is collaborating with the American Library Association (ALA) to find libraries in every state to host TED Democracy LIVE.

These livestream events will increase access to groundbreaking TED Talks to amplify community involvement, foster local engagement and inspire conversation around democracy throughout the country.

TED Democracy Live is supported by The PEW Charitable Trusts.

A speaker stands on a red circle on a stage while speaking to an audience in a dark theater. A large screen behind them displays their name and title. A speaker stands on a red circle on a stage while speaking to an audience in a dark theater. A large screen behind them displays their name and title.

TED Democracy Speaker Series 2   — Photo by Visit Philadelphia

Livestream Host Criteria

Libraries interested in partnering should be able to organize and host an event for their community members independently. They should own or have access to a venue with an existing A/V system (sounds, screen, internet connection) capable of livestreaming the event.

Visit Philadelphia will provide partners with:

  • a marketing toolkit with approved language and graphics to promote their event
  • promotional support to spread the word about the satellite event at your location
  • event decor to enhance the spirit of the live event, and
  • a monetary stipend to be used toward food and drink for attendees.

Livestream library partners will receive a unique opportunity to engage their community in meaningful conversations about democracy and access to world-class content from TED Democracy speakers.

Apply to be a livestream library partner by clicking the button below.

Want to learn more about TED Democracy LIVE? Fill out the form below to request more information.

A Note About TED Democracy

Visit Philadelphia is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the rich cultural and historical heritage of our city, including its role as the birthplace of modern American democracy. We are committed to making Philadelphia the most welcoming and inclusive city in the U.S. for visitors and residents.

The TED Democracy and Visit Philadelphia partnership, a series of events focusing on the future of democracy from 2024 to 2026, was created to align with the cultural conversations that will take place as we approach America’s 250th anniversary.

Our goal is to offer attendees a thought-provoking and educational experience that respects individual views and beliefs, all while honoring the spirit of dialogue our founding fathers practiced nearly 250 years ago here in Philadelphia.

Visit Philadelphia does not participate in political campaigns, nor support or oppose candidates for public office. We expressly disclaim any statement, or inference, of endorsement or opposition of any political candidate at any TED Democracy event, whether made by its speakers, participants or otherwise.

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