Enoch Pratt Free Library - Central Library

Huge library with a vast collection of travel, history, graphic novels and political books among many other genres. Highly recommend visiting this place.

This library is gorgeous. The librarians are really helpful and polite. They have a wide selection of books and other materials. I had a lot of fun exploring the library and the librarians went out of their way to make me comfortable. They even had a string quintet playing one time that I was there, which was a lovely surprise. I always make sure to stop in at this library when I am in Baltimore because it is one of my favorite places in the city.

A grand civic statement from our patriciate of a century ago. Spacious airy comfortable and beautiful

I really enjoyed this library and all that it offers to the community.

An excellent library. Was in town for an extended bit of work and they were able to give me a card to borrow books during my stay. Their fiction section, in particular, was outstanding. I couldn’t fjnd a certain book and asked the librarian who told me the upstairs section is only books from the past five years or so. All other books are housed in the basement. So many books!

The Enoch Pratt Library is one of Baltimore's true gems. They offer a ton of FREE events weekly. We went for the comedy show with free wine. We had a great time, and the comedians (especially the sign language interpreter) were hilarious. 😄

Loved my visit to the Central Library it was really interesting because they have a display down there about the fames basketball player Carmelo Anthony and the library is made up like a basketball court. It's really cool.

A wonderful and historic library with great areas for children and teens, and a bevy of other resources and events being held. Very helpful and friendly staff. But please fix the ventilation/HVAC system in the men’s bathroom - there are always smells emanating from there without fail.

Beautiful building, with a wonderful library and collection. The facility is a great piece of architecture. The interior layout is very good. We spent time in the periodicals room which was well laid out and stocked. The staff is exceptionally friendly. Not exactly a tourist attraction but, if you are looking for a place to quietly sit and read, this is it.

Libraries are the best part of cities! You can ask anyone who knows me, when i travel I want to visit a library and when i move the first thing I do is get a library card. When I moved to the city I looked at so many branches but the Central Library will continue to be my favorite. Its a beautiful building with so many nooks and crannies and they host the best events. I have been to book readings, conversations with authors, podcast tapings and so many more! Its too the point where I am always checking for emails because if you dont jump on some of their events quickly you will miss out!

Gorgeous library in the heart of Mt. Vernon. The building looks impressive from the outside, but the inside was much prettier than I expected. High ceilings, glass roof, marble floors... need I say more? In terms of reading material, there's enough here to keep anyone happy, and lots of little places to sit, read, study etc. So glad to have this gem in our neighbourhood.

Fabulous library, plentiful librarians who are friendly, beautiful building. Great place to study.

This is a phenomenal library is truly underrated and not appreciated enough!! I have been living in Baltimore for 5+ years and honestly I am embarrassed I didn't visit sooner! The library is HUGE with large, clean, well organized sections dedicated to books, periodicals, a whole section of career center, and so much more. My heart warmed to find a whole section called the "African American Library." It has nice space for using computers, reading, or getting work done. The energy was inspiring. I was surrounded by hundreds and hundreds of books written by African Americans. While wandering around the library, I noticed there are a couple of officers dedicated for research or archivists. There was a beautiful mural explaining the legacy of Harriet Tubman. Did you know she is from the Eastern Shore of Maryland?! The librarians recommended I check out the Children's and Teen's section. Wow. These sections are so beautiful. Each section has a dedicated, organized, state of the art creation center filled with supplies for art, poetry, photography and so much more. It was cool to learn how frequent events are occurring for kids, teens, young adults, and adults. Lastly, I was happy to see they have a social worker in the library. Oh oh! I cannot finish this review without sharing THE FACT THAT THE LIBRARY ALLOWS YOU TO BORROW VINYL RECORDS!!! Tom works this section and he is so brilliant! He explained that that the library allows people to borrow modern music or classical or old music on record, quite a collection they have! Surely, I'll be back again, this library will become my go-to study spot, especially after hours expanded until 8pm!

This is my favorite space in the whole city. I have been coming here since I was a child. Its beautiful. It has books and a great lecture program that covers the gambit from award winning authors (shout out the advance copy of RL Stine's new Goosebumps) to Comedians (still mad I didnt get to see Leslie Jones)

Have you been to the Enoch Pratt Free Library Main Branch since it was renovated? This is one of the jewels of Baltimore-- a shining example of grand architecture that celebrates the importance of learning, knowledge, and entertainment. I came here for a conference today and was overwhelmed by the beauty of this well-used and loved Baltimore institution. There is something for everybody here from kids, to teens to adults. If knowledge is power, the Pratt Library absolutely rules.

I visited this branch for the first time to sign up for the Read to Reef summer reading program, which rewards with 4 free tickets per family to the Baltimore Aquarium..! The librarians were a pleasure--very customer service oriented. The application process was quick (I'd downloaded and filled out the form before hand), and I obtained the materials for the program easily. My experience inspired me to research true library online and now I'm looking forward to planning a field trip with my children to the Central library, even though we live outside of Baltimore. The library is open but under renovation which curiously enough makes it even more fun to visit. I also learned that I can borrow books and return the books at ANY library in the state (just remember to keep the returns receipt if returning book's to a library not part of the Enoch Pratt system.) Also since my children are participating in the Reed to Reef program, they each got cards (worth a free visit to the Baltimore Aquarium for a maximum of 4 people.)

First off, I think the library has a great selection and is very big and spacious. I have come here often to study and read for pleasure! With that being said, I do not like the customer service at all from some of the staff. Every-time that I have asked about books (magazine publishing, theatre business, or broadcasting) i've received very condescending remarks from the people who were supposed to be helping me. I'm not sure if it is because of the color of my skin that they assume I am unable to comprehend such topics and they are intimidated by it but assuming that I don't know that Z and U are letters or that I don't know that 1, 2, and 3 are numbers is pretty insulting! I find it very ironic that they have black lives matter painted across the floor yet majority of your clientele are majority black citizens who get treated like this by some of the staff. I recognize that it is not a reflection of all of the staff in fact I have had some pretty great experiences with most! It is something to consider though as this has happened three times now to me- I figured I would speak up. My suggestion is if you're coming here to look for books you're probably better off looking for them yourself. I actively avoid the staff now!

This library is absolutely amazing. It's been renovated, but they didn't take away the original charm and features. It's immaculately beautiful and grand. There's plenty of space. You could easily find a spot to read, study, or whatever. That's what I like about the physical appearance and space. I also enjoy the displays outside of the front entrance. They're always so creative. It's A form of art. Once there was a great scene of The Snowy Day kid's book. They change them out so, they're not permanent displays. They always have cool events with critically acclaimed authors (Jason Reynolds and Tayari Jones immediately pop in my head for their recent visits). They have a dedicated teen center. There's a children's wing of the library. Plus, of course, all of the other things libraries typically have. The staff is great and helpful. They truly ensure questions are answered and direct you to where you need to find things. Overall, this is a wonderful library. I've been here too many times to count for various reasons, and I highly recommend you go.

This is easily the best library I've ever been to and since moving to another state, I've been on the hunt for something even close to this gem. They have something for everyone. I've been a member since I was 15 or 16 and I'll continue to be one well into the future.

This is a beautiful piece of architecture and a wonderful asset to the city. It was just renovated in 2019 and it's on par with other large city public libraries. There are multiple quiet rooms for people to have meetings, classes or for studying. The layout is open and inviting while still maintaining the grandeur of neoclassical design. In the hallways and in the main entrance they have great informational exhibits about the library itself and different issues in Baltimore. Currently, they have one on the history of redlining in Baltimore and the country. The one thing I don't like about the library is that there are no comfortable seats or couches. All the seats are hardwood or plastic. I guess it's easier to maintain and is cleaner, but it'd still be nice to have some decent lounge chairs laid out for readers.

I stepped in here between two downtown appointments. I knew they were under construction so I was really surprised to have fairly good access to books and a quiet place to read and do some paperwork. The circulation desk folks on the 2nd floor were very friendly and helpful with my questions. What is really amazing is the architecture and the interior decor - worth the visit itself, and likely more so when renovation is complete. Can't wait!

Washington's central library will be closed until 2020 due to renovations so I was very pleased to learn that Baltimore's central library chose to stay open during theirs. Renovations to the front areas of the building are still in progress but as you walk further into the building, the renovations are amazing. Wonderful job maintaining the integrity of the original architectural designs and details. This is a very large, historic and beautiful library. Renovations are slated to continue until 2020 as well. Library staff were all very nice, helpful, and welcoming. I applied for a library card and it was a smooth process. Keep in mind that upon your first time checking out materials you are limited to two books. After you check those back in you are able to check out a maximum of 30. Also on your way out you must show your receipt for the materials that you leave with. In the children's area, I love that the kids have so much room to enjoy their stay. On tables I saw crayons, scissors, and coloring paper. On the child friendly carpets I saw legos and abacus wire mazes. I really appreciate how options were available to the children and they could pretty much move about how they pleased in their own space. The one children's book I searched for was unfortunately packed away because of the renovations so that was a bit disappointing. Next I found myself in the Periodicals room. After I devoured an issue of Forbes magazine I decided to use their Microfilm reader. I had the most random desire to read a newspaper from the day that I was born and they sure did have it! This was really fun and I learned quickly how to operate the machine and software. I was able to crop and print a few articles from the newspaper. Next time I visit I'll look at some microfilm from the 1880s, I'm sure that will be very interesting. Next I went to the 3rd floor to view their selection of business and finance books. Great selection of books, surprisingly more than what we have in DC which is already a great selection. Before I left I headed to the first floor to experience The Eddie and Sylvia Brown African American Collection. According to their website it's, "an in-depth historical, contemporary collection of fiction and nonfiction resources that pertain to the history and culture of African Americans throughout the African Diaspora." Much like the museum in DC, this department will take weeks if not months or years to truly realize the richness of information that's available in one place. I really enjoyed my time at this library and I look forward to my return!

Gorgeous historic building chock full of books? Hellz yeah!!! Had to see it despite the post riot aftermath. Nothing to fear but fear itself right? The ceiling is a masterpiece and I've always liked the perimeter lofts with brass railings that a high ceilinged rooms can support. It's like having a tree house inside. Didn't stay long since I'd stayed too long at a museum and I wanted to see the Basilica across the street and make it back to the Harbor before the demonstrations were to start. I'm glad I made the effort. Wish I could've spent more time wandering among the stacks.

How can you not love this location of Enoch Pratt? It's a huge historical building, smack dab in the middle of downtown. There are historical pieces displayed through out the building. The best thing about this place is the librarians!! My son and I frequent the Central library because the librarians always recognize my son and make suggestions for books based upon the books he is currently reading (which changes constantly because he is a teen and who knows what they are into), plus he is always welcomed by the chess players who love having a kid to encourage. There are cool lectures or authors constantly scheduled at this location. If you have smaller kids, make sure you check out the pond downstairs and story hour! No matter your age, I encourage you to participate in their summer reading program (broken up by age groups). They always have awesome prizes for the kids and even awesome prizes that adults can win.

great collection, variety of resources and beautiful architecture. Yet there are a lot of noise due to open structure, and lack of power cords. WIFI speed is quite slow & too crowded & less space. I might go to coffee shop to work, but at least I tried here :p

Best library I've ever visited. Every walk of life frequents this library because of its huge selections and beautiful architecture. I'm sure the renovations will be awesome. Great library!

I have this weird thing I do where in every city I visit, I have to see their main public library. My Baltimore-born friend was pretty against the idea, but he dutifully followed me inside for a quick tour around the building. I didn't use the facilities or check anything out, but I can tell this library is a real community center. The entrance is spacious and welcoming, and just about every room, every computer, every table was in use. It was obvious that everyone is welcome here, and the library is very accessible and not so stuffy or overwhelming (I'm looking at you, NYPL!).

I need to spend more time actually exploring than working, but tis true what they said about the decorations of the building - ornate. Definitely evokes nostalgia of times past. I wish libraries live forever!

Saw a few pieces from the Edgar Allen Poe items in the special collections. Made an appointment weeks in advance via email. They were very accommodating. The woman who showed us the pieces couldn't have been more charming or engaging. She gave us a history on Poe then even showed us some other parts of the library on a little mini-tour. I highly recommend it!

EPFL has been my mainstay for literary adventures since I was a small child, when my mother used to take me for story hour at the Children's Department downstairs. My most vivid memory of that time is a huge inside koi pond where I'd sit and stare at the fish swimming in the water for hours, dreaming as children often do of the future. That koi pond, nearly 30 years later, is still there. Ahh, the memories! The main branch of the library has upgraded considerably in the last ten years; they have gone "electronic", with many free-access computers and Wifi available throughout the building. They've also added a small cafe with Seattle's Best coffee available to sip while you work, always a plus. There are also laptops to use if you need it, DVD rentals, everything you could possibly imagine. The best part about EPFL, however, is the massive used book sales that go on - I think it's twice a year or so. You should see all of the people crammed into the hallways with boxes, picking over tables full of paperbacks, hardbacks, even records and tapes. You run the risk of being suffocated while reaching for that Dan Brown novel you want so much, but oh-em-effin-gee, it's worth it. A downside to the main branch is that it's located in an "iffy" part of town - the neighborhood can get sketch late at night, so I try not to come here after dark if I can. There are a lot of panhandlers outside, especially at the bus stop, so be aware of your surroundings. (One star off for this - I think the library does need better security.) Great place to get lost in a reading adventure. Or a film adventure. Or guest lectures. Oh, hell - just to get lost in general. :D

I made an appointment to see the Edgar Allan Poe collection and it was awesome. I couldn't believe it was free for someone to go through original letters, poems, and artifacts from Poe and his family with me. It was an amazing experience. Michael Johnson was a true professional - THANK YOU!!!

This library is big and beautiful! So spacious and wonderful and many nooks and crannies to explore. This library houses a lot of community events, movie screenings, book signings, and is a general hub for a lot of other activates in Baltimore. The librarians themselves are wonderful people willing to assist you with any of your needs. Its a great place to do research, check out a good book, or grab a cup of coffee.

Beautiful library with tons of architectural charm. Don't forget to check out the books for sale near the front, they have some great titles there!

Worst library in the country. Do not check out books there! They will say you didn't return the books and they will charge you. The staff is rude as well.

The biggest and best in the city; at least for me it is. Its been around for as long as I can remember and I have a ton of memories from when I was a child. The funny thing is that it still seems big to me. It also is ongoing in expanding its wealth of knowledge in literary as well as other media. Best thing is its all free of course but that goes with out saying. So many different events are held for so many different interest; you can say they have something for everyone even if you don't like to read. Customer service is great, user friendl check out system, and once you get the catalog learning curve out the way finding books is a breeze too. If you feel in the mood for a good book and need to research don't overlook this experience, I believe its worth the trip.

I love libraries and bookstores! I was an English Literature and Philosophy major in college so I really love to read. Perhaps I am just a country rube who is too used to the county libraries, but the Pratt really blew me away by it's sheer size and breadth. I mean they have librarians in the different sections and if the book you are looking for isn't on the shelf the librarian will just pop off to the basement to get it for you! I love the humanities department on the fourth floor because they have a great collection up there and it's generally less populated. The on line renewal and reservation system is quite convenient as well. The only compliant I have is that parking can sometimes be a pain and that the crowd outside the library is not always the most savory on the weekends.

Big, historic, and located in downtown Baltimore. The surrounding area can be a bit sketchy as it's across the street from a homeless shelter too. The librarians are friendly and willing to assist you however they can. There are multiple levels and different rooms for different means. Check it out if the smaller Enoch libraries lack things you need for your reading pleasures or research ventures. Most of the other reviews explain this library well.

They have books and library fans of all ages. Very nice quiet room with clean tables.i will come back again.

I love Pratt sooooooooooooo much. There aren't enough good things to say about it. They've got some great speakers on their calendar on a variety of topics, all for free (this month I was lucky enough to see Novella Carpenter but unfortunately missed Pam Grier). I've gone to movie screenings at the main branch on rainy afternoons where they charmingly provide mediocre coffee and popcorn. The main library is a gorgeous space worth seeing for the building alone. Their selection of materials is great and if you can't make it to the branch that has the item you want, just put it on hold and they'll deliver it to any branch you choose within a couple of days. They'll even call or e-mail to tell you it's there. I've just touched on the tip of the iceberg, there are so many resources that I haven't uncovered yet and I can't wait 'til I do.

On the pdf for Newcomen Society Pamphlets , I notice that the paper entitled: "Leadership: A Message for America", which was dated 1947, has the author's name misspelled. The correct spelling is "Zeder". Dr. Frederick M. Zeder was a famous automotive engineer at the Chrysler Corporation. I just though you might be interested.

Beautiful place to come and soak up the atmosphere. Incredible resources. Baltimoreans ought to use this wonderful resource.

Conveniently, this library is only a few blocks from where I live. On average, this place gets about five hours of my time a week, tipically researching and studying. The libarians there are always helpful whenever their assistans is needed and they ensure that the reading areas are kept clean and quiet.(Kudoes to the staff) This branch probably has every book that has ever been written and published cause I usually always find what I'm looking for, 99% of the time. This is a truly awesome library.

"My library," said philanthropist Enoch Pratt, "shall be for all, rich and poor without distinction of race or color, who, when properly accredited, can take out the books if they will handle them carefully and return them." In a world where education is too often viewed as an advantage of wealth, places like the Enoch Pratt Free Library are a necessity. This library offers outstanding customer service, nearly ever book you could ever desire, over 800 laptops that can be checked out and used in the library, a career information center, the Edgar Allen Poe Room, and more. With an entrance located on the ground level, all are welcome.

This is a great library, but really I just want to mention that there's a giant chess set in one of the back rooms. Not just large, like this piece is really big in my hand. Large like I can stand on a square and be a chess piece too. Super fun!

Whenever I move, one of the first things I do is to see how close the nearest library is. When I moved to Canton the answer was perfect - there were two within eight blocks! I love libraries and love love love the Canton branch of Enoch Pratt. It's a beautiful old building with so much history. Central is also an amazing building and it's so big it would take multiple visits and hours and hours to get through it all. I love the website, which allows me to place books on hold and alerts me as to when they're available. If you read as much as I do, this free service is amazing. What's even more amazing is how fast new books are available after I've placed them on hold. The small staff at Canton knows me by name and probably dread seeing me every few days but I look forward to each visit.