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Location Closure The Light Street Branch is closed Tuesday, July 1 due to a facilities maintenance issue.

Announcement The Pennsylvania Avenue Branch is operating on a reduced schedule with limited services 10 am–4 pm until further notice, due to a facilities maintenance issue.

Location Closure The Brooklyn, Forest Park, Govans, Hamilton, Herring Run, Northwood, Reisterstown Road, and Washington Village branches are closed for facility improvements. Learn more here.

Holiday Closing All Pratt Library locations will be closed Friday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day.

The Hackerman Writer in Residence Program aims to support the literary and cultural endeavors of the Baltimore community by connecting established and emerging writers with Library resources and tools. The program fosters meaningful connections with Library patrons, allowing writers to share their craft and contribute unique perspectives to the ever-evolving and growing city of Baltimore. It offers all members of the community unique opportunities to learn, engage, and participate in the literary arts alongside their fellow Baltimoreans.

For more information about the Hackerman Writer in Residence program, please email wir@prattlibrary.org.

D. Watkins

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writers speaking on stage - D Watkins and Jaqueline Woodson

The Hackerman 2025 Writer in Residence is local author D. Watkins. D. Watkins is the New York Times bestselling and award-winning author of The Beast Side, The Cook Up, Where Tomorrows Aren’t Promised, and We Speak for Ourselves—which was Enoch Pratt Free Library’s 2020 One Book Baltimore selection. His newest book, Black Boy Smile, was released in May 2022.

Throughout the year, Watkins has engaged with Library visitors through workshops, talks, and readings, providing valuable insights into his creative approach in the fields of podcasting, creative writing, and journalism. As part of his focus on storytelling techniques, Watkins has invited community members to write and record their Baltimore stories.

About D. Watkins

2026 Hackerman Writer in Residence Proposals

Learn more about applying to become the next Hackerman Writer in Residence at the Pratt, including program goals, requirements, and examples.

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Events
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Events


Browse a variety of Pratt Library events for all ages, both in-person and virtual.

Writing @ The Pratt
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Writing @ The Pratt


Join us for writing-focused events including writers' groups, zine-making classes, and more.