late-1990s, many of the abandoned lots and buildings were bought, renovated, and put on the market for rent. The neighborhood saw an influx of college students from Drexel University, among other institutions, move into the area in search of affordable housing. The Mantua library branch was renamed the Charles L. Durham Free Library in 1995. Born in Mantua, Durham served on City Council from 1967 to 1974, when he was appointed to the Common Pleas Court. He was a strong advocate for the community, and was deeply involved in the struggle for civil rights and was part of the first black caucus on Council. The library was renovated in 1999 as part of the Free Library of Philadelphia "Changing Lives" campaign, which refurbished branches and ensured Internet access. 2000s It is estimated that between 500 and 1000 college-aged students are living in Mantua. This growing number of students has brought renewed interest to the Mantua community from the expanding university system to the south, consisting mainly of Drexel University and the University of Pennsylvania. See also Spiral Q Puppet Theater Gentrification in Philadelphia#University City and Mantua References External links InfoResources West Philadelphia Neighborhood - Mantua "We Are Mantua" website University City Historical Society - Mantua "Emlenton" to Mantua Historic Photographs of Mantua, PhillyHistory.org Charles L. Durham Library Mantua Civic Association Neighborhoods in Philadelphia West Philadelphia