George Peabody Library

University library · Baltimore

George Peabody Library

University library · Baltimore

3

17 E Mt Vernon Pl, Baltimore, MD 21202

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George Peabody Library by Matthew Petroff on Flickr (Creative Commons)
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George Peabody Library by null
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George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
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George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
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George Peabody Library by null
George Peabody Library by null
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Highlights

Architectural gem, "Cathedral of Books," with 300K volumes  

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17 E Mt Vernon Pl, Baltimore, MD 21202 Get directions

library.jhu.edu
@georgepeabodylibrary

Information

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17 E Mt Vernon Pl, Baltimore, MD 21202 Get directions

+1 667 208 6715
library.jhu.edu
@georgepeabodylibrary

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Last updated

Aug 10, 2025

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@atlasobscura

Travel to As Many of These Offbeat Places As You Can in 2018

"College libraries can be claustrophobic, institutional affairs, more concerned with eliminating distractions than providing a scholarly atmosphere. But the George Peabody Library on the campus of the Peabody Conservatory of Music, now owned by Johns Hopkins University, was seemingly designed to create a space where studying feels monumental. Built in 1878 at the behest of philanthropist George Peabody, the library was originally part of an arts and culture institute—America’s first music conservatory—that he created to be available to the people of his beloved Baltimore. The Peabody Institute is still among the world’s finest music schools, graduating many of classical music’s finest performers, teachers, and composers.  The space was designed with a huge atrium at its center, with each level of the library overlooking the central space. It is outfitted in ornate railings and patterned marble floors, and naturally lighted in the daytime by a criss-crossed skylight six floors above the hall. The beautiful and cavernous space was described fittingly as a “cathedral of books.” Most of the collection are reference works dating to the late 19th century on subjects ranging from archaeology to science to literature. Currently the space also serves as a popular event space and backdrop for films and TV shows.  The George Peabody Library is still open to the general public as per Peabody’s original intention. Peabody left more than a repository of knowledge for the city by creating a gorgeous space in which to enjoy it, and his vision for merging serious music with the rest of the arts was, to be sure, prescient and bold." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/jetblue-all-you-can-jet
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@afar

5 Best Boutique Hotels in Baltimore - AFAR

"An architectural and bibliographic landmark featuring six floors and a collection of more than 300,000 books, prized for both its scholarly resources and its dramatic, historic interior." - AFAR

https://www.afar.com/magazine/5-best-boutique-hotels-in-baltimore
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@coolstuff.nyc

coolstuff.nyc

"Operated by Johns Hopkins University, the George Peabody Library offers both beautiful interiors and a connection to Baltimore’s gilded past, open to public visitors." - Coolstuff Team

https://www.coolstuff.nyc/guides/baltimore-maryland
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Nathasha Wijesinghe

Google
This is a must watch. A great photo opportunity. I haven’t see this big, magnificent library in my life. Architecture is very impressive. You can walk around first floor only. There are so many old books, so please keep in mind to leave them as it is.

Thu-Nga Ortega, DDS, MAGD

Google
Wow what a beautiful library. It is immense and really intriguing. The upper levels are not accessible. There are really old books here and there is a librarian who can get books that you want checked out and you would only be allowed to read it in front of him and then return it to him before leaving. The main level, is for anyone wanting to study in this beautiful library. There are some books, but most are just strapped closed because they are so old they are literally falling apart.

PR K

Google
An amazing library in the heart of Baltimore at the Peabody Institute. Check timings before you go because they are close several days a week. A popular location for Hopkins graduates to take photos. Do visit and be amazed if you get a chance. Also visit the Washington Monument close by.

Art Poetry Images

Google
Explore Baltimore - The George Peabody Library of The Johns Hopkins University 17 East Mount Vernon Place Baltimore, MD 21202 Begun in the 1860s, the collection of the George Peabody Library now contains more than 300,000 volumes largely from the 18th and 19th centuries. Notable collection strengths are archaeology, British art and architecture, English and American literature, Romance languages and literature, Greek and Latin classics, history of science, geography, and exploration and travel. The Library is part of the Special Collections Department of the Sheridan Libraries of Johns Hopkins University. It is a non-circulating collection, but readers and researchers are welcome to use the collection

LaRosa V

Google
Absolutely stunning, completely unaware Peabody and Hopkins were buddies. Free admission, 2 hour limit parking found a spot right away. Beautiful park across and not to mention a church with stunning architecture. A serene place outside and inside just beautiful.

Amanda

Google
A stunning library open to the public! I think I saw it on an Instagram add and have had it on my list since then so I was pleasantly surprised to be visiting Baltimore. I’ve been in other pretty libraries like this where you had a bit more access and would have loved to be able to walk around more than just the bottom to peruse some more. The lighting isn’t quite as advertised either but I’m not complaining. I spent some time at one of the tables just soaking in the beauty. Definitely worth the stop for me.

Austin Graff

Google
Often said to be one of the most beautiful libraries in the country, it's worth a visit. Paid street parking is easy to find nearby. Open during the day every day except Friday and Saturday, walk inside. When you see the check-in area, go left for a little exhibit space and the door to the library. It's very large with stunning design. You can't go up any stairs so stay on the ground floor, keeping quiet out of respect to the people studying.

Andres Cordoba

Google
A stunning library to be sure, one of the best I've seen throughout the nation. The stunning architecture and splendid designs really captured my attention. However, it simultaneously runs into the issue of being too public and private. As a practical library, it does a rather poor job with limited spaces and considerable tourist run through. The upper levels also serve only as decoration, being too private as well. Although I don't like it too much as a library, I think it does a fantastic job as a tourist must-see and event center, which still captures a different demographic of 5 stars.
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Hunter S.

Yelp
Outside the student population, the onlookers are only allowed on the first floor. A worthwhile photo op, it really is beautiful, but this is like a 10 minute stop. They do have a small special exhibit space, so you might find something there. During my visit, it was centered on Gertrude Stein. Near the Walters art museum (reviewed separately)--like 2/10 of a mile or less. Also near the Washington monument if you're into that kind of thing, and some interesting architecture. So you could make a half day of it.
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Megan C.

Yelp
Absolutely stunning part of the Peabody campus that is open to the public and includes rotating exhibitions in the front part of the library. I really enjoyed the current Gertrude Stein exhibit currently on display, and am excited to return on my future trips to Baltimore. The library itself is what photo-worthy dreams are made of! Great spot to get work done, take a look around the shelves, and enjoy an afternoon. I was staying nearby and walked but street parking seems easy enough to find and there's plenty to do in the general vicinity. A must-do on your trip to Bmore!
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Judy T.

Yelp
For us library nerds this is a necessary stop in Baltimore. Absolutely gorgeous. Really great Gertrude Stein exhibit in the front room. Love the architecture and grand vibes of the main room. Stunning details. We got some help locating historical documents housed at Hopkins from the charming librarians.
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Amanda K.

Yelp
A stunning library open to the public! I think I saw it on an Instagram add and have had it on my list since then so I was pleasantly surprised to be visiting Baltimore. I've been in other pretty libraries like this where you had a bit more access and would have loved to be able to walk around more than just the bottom to peruse some more. The lighting isn't quite as advertised either but I'm not complaining. I spent some time at one of the tables just soaking in the beauty. Definitely worth the stop for me.
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Tina G.

Yelp
Such a beautiful space! Pros: it's free, it's a very instagrammable place for a photo shoot, it's stunning! Cons: the hours change all the time, you can't go beyond the ground floor in either the library or the conservatory, the books are outdated and I'm afraid to handle them because a lot of them are falling apart. Check out the website to see when they are open. It changes weekly. You don't need more than 15 minutes there, unless you are actually studying.
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Faith Maya O.

Yelp
Came here to see the Ethel Ennis exhibit and was not disappointed! This is such a beautiful landmark and museum. Perfect place for photography, a tour, and just overall nice place to hang on the weekends. They are open on Sundays which is nice but parking is limited. Make sure to check their hours before you come. I recommend taking the circulator or the JHMI shuttle or a bus if you can. You can find street parallel parking, but depending on the day that may be more difficult. It's located near the inner harbor, right next to the Washington monument and the Walter's art museum. Make a day of it! And it has free entry. Great place to bring kids, teenagers or the whole family.
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Ameena A.

Yelp
Such a beautiful, historic site to visit if you're in Baltimore - and especially if you have any connection to Johns Hopkins. It is simply stunning; I saw it was a wedding venue and truly considered it! There are spots to sit and read/study if you're interested. There are not new books though- only historic. Unfortunately, you cannot leave the first floor although you can glance up to all the other floors and the beautiful high ceiling.
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Sherry S.

Yelp
Hidden in Baltimore is this spectacular library. It is absolutely wonderful. Just FYI if you are not a Hohn Hopkins med student you don't get to go upstairs.
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Austin G.

Yelp
Often said to be one of the most beautiful libraries in the country, it's worth a visit. Paid street parking is easy to find nearby. Open during the day every day except Friday and Saturday, walk inside. When you see the check-in area, go left for a little exhibit space and the door to the library. It's very large with stunning design. You can't go up any stairs so stay on the ground floor, keeping quiet out of respect to the people studying.
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Alex M.

Yelp
As a book lover, I was enchanted by the George Peabody Library. Upon entering the main library, there are stacks upon stacks of old books that you can (gently) peruse and admire. You can also explore the library catalog files, which are organized as index cards in miniature drawers. The whole experience feels as if you're going back in history. (Note that you can only view the books on the first floor for safety reasons.) Outside the main library, there is a quaint museum that spotlights famous local authors like Edgar Allen Poe, who lived in Baltimore. You can also see first editions of classics like Moby Dick and learn more about the literary history of the area. The library is a the perfect place to spend an afternoon as you are exploring the historic and quaint Mt. Vernon neighborhood.
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Lena M.

Yelp
George Peabody Library is absolutely gorgeous! I highly recommend visiting it if you're in town. I spent some time reading my book here and felt like I was in a fairy tale. There were other people around working on their laptops and enjoying the beauty of this space. There is a museum section and books that you're able to look through. It is a part of John Hopkins so sections are closed off for students only. When we entered, the security guard wasn't very kind. She might've had a bad day. She was nice enough to let me switch out my driver's license for the visitor pass to use the restroom in the student-only section, however about an hour later she wouldn't let my partner do the same. So there is a 50/50 chance that there is a bathroom available. It's good for a quick stop if you're exploring the Mt. Vernon area. And it's amazing for any Yelp photos you want to capture.
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Amanda L.

Yelp
What can be said about this library other than it is simply BEAUTIFUL. I came here for a wedding and it is the dreamiest venue ever. It's five levels of bookshelves and ornate architecture that goes all the way up to the high vaulted ceilings that are entirely windows at the top for the natural light during the day and the dark sky at night to filter in and it's absolutely breathtaking. The Peabody is historic and can basically only be booked by alumni of Johns Hopkins for private events and what a treat it was to visit here when it's all glammed up for a wedding ceremony and reception. Fairy lights are strung along the banisters for more dreamy effect. You unfortunately, but understandably cannot go up and explore the levels of books and shelves of the Peabody and can only appreciate it all looking down on you from the main, central area. There is a small atrium before entering the Peabody with display cases and a small collection that you can peruse as well prior to entering the library. The bathrooms are a level down and in general the Peabody is contained in a larger building that houses other spaces that we did not get a chance to explore. Overall, absolutely STUNNING! If you an attend an event here, it's more than worth it a million times over! If you can even visit it when you're in Baltimore, I'd highly recommend it. It's smaller than you'd probably expect, so it's much more magical especially for a special event that's meant to be intimate, but definitely prioritize this when you find yourself in Baltimore! Make sure to just call and check ahead of time because they oftentimes have weird hours or are closed to private events!
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Carolina S.

Yelp
The George Peabody Library is hands down one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen! The word I'm looking for is M-A-J-E-S-T-I-C! Extremely high ceilings exposing a plethora of novels and old school books. The lighting is warm and the people are nestled in nooks and crannies of the functional library while some of us document the experience on our phones. This is definitely the place I would hang out at if I lived in Baltimore. Everyone is already aware that I'm a library rat. And now libraries and cemeteries are high on my travel to do list. Don't cheat yourself from this experience when visiting. Definitely worth getting up early and visiting. When entering the library you continue through the exhibition or installation an the entrance for the library is on the other side. From what I hear, there are sometimes special events hosted here and even weddings. It that doesn't spell romance then I really don't know what to tell ya.
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Daryl P.

Yelp
Having never been here before I didn't know what to expect. I was glad to see an exhibit before the library of the community through photos which always resonated with me more than other type of art and installations. The place to be is the main library with its high ceiling and floors of books that were written in past eras. Though the floors above the main one are off limits, I could imagine myself climbing those stairs to look down and see library from that high vantage point. A working library, there were students and those that were working as they basked in the sensations of such a marvelous library and structure. A quick visit before grabbing lunch, it was well worth the quick walk around. I would highly suggest it as a nice stop before exploring the rest of the city. I had wished there was more to the library but it looks like other parts of the building are sectioned off and can only be entered with a valid ID as there as a guard stationed.
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April S.

Yelp
Such a beautiful library. It's definitely seems like it will be an ideal event spot. I wish I would have known prior to coming that only the first floor was available to visitors (though it was still dope). I used the space to study for a bit and it was perfect. Large studying spaces and great for small group studying if needed. I'll be back for their upcoming exhibit.
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Vlad V.

Yelp
On a trip to Baltimore, George Peabody Library was within walking distance from my hotel. It's part of John Hopkins University but it is open to the public. As I arrived at the library, there's a park right across the street where you'll find a statue of George Peabody. Once you make your way inside, the library looks like a scene straight out of Harry Potter. Shelves of books reach the ceiling. Wooden furniture surrounds. Dim lights bring some light to the library. Stunning architecture throughout. It's truly a sight to behold. While I only walked around for a couple of minutes, I wish I would have had the time to do some work and take in the experience for a more extended period of time. Whether you have five minutes or five hours, make sure to check it out if you're in the area!
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Amanda Z.

Yelp
This is one of my favorites spaces in Baltimore. Its just beautiful and definitely gives you an old world feelings. I can sit here and read for ever and a day. also appreciated the afterhour events that hightlight local talent and artistry. From concerts put on by talented students to immersive theater the peabody opens its doors to a plethora of experiences you need to see. Everyone is helpful here and you will walk into exhibits that will blow you away. of course go to the walters art gallery but dont forget this gem
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Karen N.

Yelp
Stunning hidden gem in Baltimore city. I came here for a change in study location and fell in love with the building. The architecture and old-world feel was perfect for the history buff in me -- books dating back to our nations beginnings like the DAR rosters were behind me!! There are plenty of outlets and seating, and many others were also getting work done. Only one issue is if you're easily distracted: this is a popular place for tourists and photo shoots so be prepared for curious onlookers peeking in at you or avoiding the cameras. Everyone who works here is also very kind, so the place didn't have a stuffy air either -- definitely worth checking out if you're visiting or need a change of scenery for work!
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Cat N.

Yelp
Beautiful library and best is that its free!!!!! it had historic and vintage feels. Come get your instagram basic shots. I see why people have weddings here. Nearby is the nicest area of Baltimore. I spent 10 mins here, take a few pics and go. Parking can be a pain though
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Alexis B.

Yelp
The George Peabody Library is the 19th century research library of the Johns Hopkins University. It's called Baltimore's "Cathedral of Books," and if you visit, you'll understand why. The library was built in 1878 and it has stunning cast-iron balconies and a massive skylight. Its closed Sundays and Mondays but has limited hours to explore the rest of the days of the week. It's so beautiful and well worth exploring if you're visiting Baltimore or live in Baltimore but have never been!
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Jonelle B.

Yelp
This library is simply gorgeous. It is rated amongst the top 14 most beautiful libraries in the country. Its located on John Hopkins campus and has a parking garage that is under the building which is quite convenient. This library is partially functional whereas you can go here to study or read but you can't browse the isles and pick out books yourself. There are computers stationed in the center of the library and there are people that sit here to do real work. So, even though it is a tourist attraction, it is still used like a real library. There is no fee to enter and there is a large room outside of the entrance of the library that has many historical things to read and see. Pieces of Baltimore and other parts of Maryland's history that have been reserved.
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Theresa D.

Yelp
Patiently waiting for them to open, much like every other lover of Architecture and beautiful sites. I love how it's Nestled right in the middle of everything. If you didn't know where you were going you would miss it, but once it opens back up I do anticipate an explosion of tourism and people looking to capture those beautiful angles and beautiful gold molding. Aside from of course the luxury of finding many different books here. A worthwhile experience, be patient
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Carrie C.

Yelp
Everyone needs to see this building. It's a quick stop- you don't need a tour, just walk in an prepare to be amazed. The Peabody collection contains over 300,000 volumes dating from the Renaissance through the 19th Century. The skylight casts light over six tiers of cast-iron balconies. Simply incredible!
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Sophia Y.

Yelp
A few steps away from the George Washington Monument is this gem for book lovers who have a thing for picturesque libraries. Built in 1857, it is a phenomenal venue of 5 tiers of cast-iron columns embellished with gold-leaf, rising more than 6 feet to the massive skylight. I was a little disappointed that the staircase to visit the upper levels was blocked off when I visited though. The library is also often closed for events and free concerts so I would call before visiting. Highly recommended as it was definitely a sight to behold!
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Sara S.

Yelp
I was awestruck when entering this library-- it's beautiful! The detail and architecture, along with the hundreds of thousands of books carefully organized. I highly recommend popping in when you visit Baltimore! PS- it's free!
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Wilson B.

Yelp
I once read an article that listed the top 10 most spectacular libraries in the world and the George Peabody Library was on the list and it deserves to be. I am going to take the stance of a few others and say that it is a hidden gem because it is right by the Washington Monument which I been to numerous times and climbed to the top twice. I even followed the Roger Taney monument from reinterpretation to removal but I had yet to take the 3 minute walk to the Peabody Library. It is breath taking and I loved being in the space. I went a few minutes before closing and there were still a couple of people there studying. I was jealous of them because that's on my to-do list now. Considering the amount of old books, the library did not smell musty or anything. I bring that up because it is a very quiet place and that was not interrupted by people with sneezing fits. Until March 1, 2020 there is a great exhibition on Black Baltimore with wonderful photographs that is well worth your time.
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Tiffany H.

Yelp
Gorgeous library! Interior feels very grand. The 5 tiers of balconies are made of cast iron, and the gold-scalloped columns rise more than 60 feet. A must visit if you're in the area. Peabody Institute is super well-known and established for their music program, and many come here to train professionally. Read about how some students were collaborating on research with Hopkins about using music to help heal and improve health.
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Alice C.

Yelp
i came across george peabody library from a baltimore book inside my hotel room and it really piqued my interest because it was so beautiful in the photo. since i rounded up the troops to visit the washington monument we were just across the street so we popped by to see if we can see the library and luckily there wasn't any private events we got to walk into the library! and it's true, it's he most beautiful library EVER. the architectural details was just astounding, it almost resembles an opera house. it's SO pretty and i've never seen anything alike! we didn't get to hang around much, but it's definitely worth a drop by!
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Dewan A.

Yelp
Amazing! 1) One of the most beautiful library on the planet. 2) It looks like something out of a Disney movie. 3) Plus, it is free.
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Tri L.

Yelp
It's an absolutely gorgeous library and one of my favorite places to visit in Baltimore! The multi-floor balconies and lighting make this location beautiful. I love the look and feel of the place. A true book lover's dream. It's the self-styled Cathedral of Books, and for good reason. There's a small museum just outside the library itself. There are limited hours, so be sure to check before you come visit. You won't regret coming here. Great for a quick visit and photos. I can understand why it's a popular wedding venue.
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Igor B.

Yelp
This is my third time I saw it and I always felt like in a Harry Potter movie, expecting that the books will start flying around. It is not to miss when visiting Baltimore. It is built in 1857 and the iron work is spectacular. I have yet to meet a person who would stay not impressed. I wish one day just to sit and watch how peoples faces light up and react when they see it first time. Across the street is the Washington Monument with its 227 steps to the top (worth it) and Walters Art Gallery (gem art museum).
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Isaiah W.

Yelp
This place is a hidden gem in the city and a great spot to come and work when you have some time to or if you want to read a book in one of the most beautiful libraries you can find! I will note that you can only hang out on the first floor, and besides that it is a normal library so you want to be quiet and respectful of others when you are there. Also don't be surprised if you see photographers and people stopping by to take a quick picture or have a look at the amazing architecture and grandness of the whole space. The staff is in an office towards the back but I can't think of a reason why you would need to head back there and bother. As long as you are following normal rules and etiquette you will be left to yourself!
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Maggi R.

Yelp
We came to the Peabody Library to see the major exhibition of "Maryland: from the Willard Hackerman Map Collection". The exhibition showcases exquisitely drawn maps and prints of the Chesapeake Bay and Baltimore from the 17th to the 19th centuries. We were awe struck seeing over 30 of the most stunning historically significant maps detailing early Baltimore and Maryland. We were also interested in seeing the John Ogilby's "Lord Baltimore Map" from 1671, a hand-colored edition of Thomas H. Poppleton's 1822 "Plan of the City of Baltimore," and engraved views of Baltimore from the Harry N. Baetjer Collection of Historical Maps and Prints. How lucky for the Sheridan Libraries that Willard and Lillian Hackerman generously gave this collection to them for all to see. (Mr. Hackerman was a graduate of The Johns Hopkins University.) The exhibition will be open until March 16, 2019. The hours are Tuesday thru Thursday 10-5, and 10-3 on Friday. While there, don't forget to step into the library and admire the stunning stacks.
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Josh D.

Yelp
What a incredible place to be especially if you need to get some work done. Stayed here for a couple of hours just enjoying the history around me and getting my work done. Place is free and if you need any book they will get you want you need. The Library has books all the way from the 15th century!!
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Kia D.

Yelp
GREAT WEDDING VENUE! Beautiful wedding venue for ceremony and reception. Great book/library theme! Garage parking in downtown Baltimore for a small $5 fee. The attendants said to be out by 10:30; lost parking ticket is $10. Even though I wasn't told of this before leaving my car, it wasn't a problem. A great time was had. Beautiful, majestic, evening wedding, The lobby area was large enough and great for the cocktail reception. A photobooth was set up off to the side (not intrusive or awkwardly placed.) The hall was switched over to the reception area in about 1.5 hours. I was just about to give up on my heels as we stood, but it was worth the wait. Intimate, but not overcrowded seating for the dinner and a nice medium to small dance floor area. Catered dinner was decent. Simply perfect! Bathroom is a floor down, but there is access by elevator. The garage is accessible from the inside. I didn't realize until after I left the wedding and walked around the building.
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Rabia J.

Yelp
If Belle from 'Beauty and the Beast' lived in Maryland, she would be reading and singing every day at George Peabody library. I first saw the pictures of the gorgeous interior and knew I wanted to go. It reminded me of some French buildings' interior. From my parents house in VA, this was 1 hour and 15 minutes to MD. But so worth the trip. One of my friends had done some internship camp at the George Peabody the year before and knew her way around. She was the perfect source of knowledge in her tour around the facility. Before you go inside, the parking situation is bit tricky but there is a garage across the street for a flat rate. Once you go inside, you will be amazed by the sheer beauty of the open columns, brass rows in which the books are on, high ceilings etc. The collection of books they have is a impressive one with many religion books, history (my fav), and other subjects. This library is now owned by John Hopkins University and they have done a great job in maintaining and renovating it without compromising the original beauty of the structure. Try not to talk so loud because the voice echoes and there are actually people studying and working. I won't lie to you though, I sort of squealed with excitement when I first walked in. It's the perfect place to study or read instead of going to a Barnes and Noble. It's even the perfect place to get married, so unique and romantic. Furthermore, I found out it is a popular place to get married in MD. It definitely is a 'fine reading' establishment for the intellectual beings. Be Belle (or Beast: did he read?) for a day, and read in this gorgeous library.
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Keli W.

Yelp
BEAUTIFUL!!! a must for photo shoots and pictures! The staff was just eh though... but I will still give them 5 stars because it is so beautiful. Put this on your Baltimore bucket list !
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Eddie C.

Yelp
This is one of the coolest things I've ever seen! So many floors of books to look at. The books are so old and some are falling apart. That's just the ground floor. I wish they let people roam the higher floors. I understand why they don't but it would be fun if they did.
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Lindsey S.

Yelp
I am only writing for my friend's wedding here! :) This is one of the most beautiful venues for wedding!!! The high ceilings and the layers of floor just created this beautiful ambiance perfect for any classy events. Even with the minimal flower arrangements, the place looks awesome; like how pretty girls look stunning with wearing only lipsticks. Lol Just outside the library at the foyer serves as the perfect space for cocktail hrs and dessert bar area. The library itself is located inside the block of very quaint buildings and in a safe area that you would have no idea how ghetto the neighboring areas are. The couple arranged a hotel a block away from the library, which made it super easy for us. I am taking one star off because of the bathroom situating quite a walk from the library but that's it!:)
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Stephanie N.

Yelp
Beautiful. I came in here expecting to explore, but my eyes were amazed we the architecture and design inside the library. Great spot to check out if you have an eye for these things!
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Tee B.

Yelp
A gorgeous space full of history and charm. Grand enough to leave first time visitors in awe.
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Leann P.

Yelp
This is one of the most beautiful libraries I have ever been to. It's a book lover's dream! There is floor upon floor of levels with classic books and resources. I love that they still had a large card catalog! I hope they keep it around. It really adds to the style of the library. Huge tables are nestled between the different shelves offering a quiet place to read, study, and write.
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Shaneia S.

Yelp
This place is PHENOMENAL!! Crazy that I've lived in Baltimore my whole life and have never seen this campus until now! Just finished a meeting and learned so much about the school, FREE CONCERTS and campus! Baltimoreans I TOTALLY encourage you to come out and see a concert or sign up for a class - you'll be learning from the best!!!!
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Heather F.

Yelp
What a gorgeous library ! Right here, a step away from our very own Free Charm City Circulator. I don't really read physical books (solely audio these days) but this place is definitely worth a visit, if only for the notoriety on your Instagram feed . Just note they close at 1pm on Saturdays and while I did see a few people studying here, most people were visiting for the photo opportunities .

Amy L.

Yelp
Definitely a hidden gem (free too). This is was my first stop on my first visit to Baltimore. It was interesting to read about the history of the Peabody museum and how it came to be. The light and ironwork of the main room is quite stunning. Sitting in one of the alcoves will give you inspiration to write or simply enjoy some peace and quite. They still have card catalogues, which I haven't seen since high school. The library is around the corner from the original George Washington monument. There is a parking garage across the street by the Walters Museum. Street parking is difficult and maximum time is four hours. I ended up parking in the garage since I was going to spend more than four hours downtown.
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An P.

Yelp
Inside this historical monument, you'll find eight original John Audubon books along with books on Egyptology that won't be found in the Library of Congress. It's quite amazing that I did live in Baltimore for college and I never set foot in this building. I was a bit skeptical on a wedding reception at the library, but having been on the top floor of the Harold Washington Library, I knew the trappings would be monumental and the proportions epic. The post wedding ceremony cocktail reception was held in a large high ceilinged room with art from ages past encased in glass. The windows were high and the scene was amazing, it was a cocktail reception in the museum part of the library! Totally cool, there were servers making cocktails, people signing the wedding book, and black coats, suits, and everyone in their finest wardrobe. The servers were congenial and the atmosphere was fantastic. As we entered the banquet hall, it was actually the main part of the library. Enter this room and you will look up to six stories of bookshelves going level by level up and amazing lighting. Some of the more historical books were locked in glass cases as a mere touch would likely render the book to specks of dust. On all of the tables were an amazing floral arrangement that was over two feet high with giant vases. The servers this round moved methodically with surgical precision to deliver wine and food. The food was of course fantastic and the DJ had no trouble setting up and the audio fine. We were never rushed and when the reception was over we were given plenty of time to pack up and put everything away. When I have a wedding one day, I hope to be able to secure a venue as grandiose and spectacular as George Peabody Library!
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Lucia C.

Yelp
Stunning. This is one of the most beautiful venues for a wedding that I have ever seen. Located in Mount Vernon outside the Washington Monument, the George Peabody Library is (as Bradley N said) an architectural wonder in Neo-Grec style. The height of the stack room, lined with cast-iron balconies and embellished with gold-leaf, is awe-inspiring. The black and white marbled floor below, the skylight above, and the six tiers of decorative railings makes for a very sophisticated, yet intimate space to celebrate a beautiful occasion. I took several photos, but I could not fully capture the beauty of the room. The wedding ceremony took place in the stack room - minimal decoration, warm lighting, and rows of iron chairs lined the room, complementing the overall symmetry of the space. An hors d'oeuvres hour took place in the exhibition room, just outside the stack room. This space had historical pieces in glass cases and was set up with 2 bar areas. The doors were opened for dinner in the main stack room. The caterers (I belief Chef Expressions - approved for the Peabody) were wonderful and the round tables were set beautifully. The servers were attentive and professional. Dinner was excellent. They also made space at the back of the room for a dance floor and DJ. The library itself also houses space for musical and theatrical productions. There is parking on the street, and you are able to hire valet service for your event. I am not sure of the costs for this venue, or how easy/difficult they are to work with, but they seem to be flexible for any number of guests. Overall, the George Peabody Library is elegant, and perfect for any celebration.
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Kevin H.

Yelp
Open to the public Tues through Friday, the peabody library is consistently listed as one of the most beautiful college libraries in the country. The narrow book stacks above the ground floor that rise up to the top of the atrium are off limits so you can only look up and imagine what the view would be like from up top. This is a really old library. When you walk in you are hit with the pungent smell of books older than your grandmother whose covers are like soft leather, worn and weathered. It is one of the only places in Baltimore where you feel like you literally step back in time, fully expecting someone in victorian clothing to walk past you. It's a nice place to study in once in a while, and it's a setting unlike any other. There's surprisingly never more than a smattering of people there, either studying or gawking at the architecture. Overall, the Peabody Library feels like a Baltimore secret, a beautiful atrium from the 1800s hidden in Mt. Vernon.
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Ruby S.

Yelp
It's a very beautiful experience! EXCEPT someone decided it was okay to start using a DRILL!!! It wasn't closed yet, 2:00 students were even working at the desks.