Material Pickup & Return
Learn how to pick up and return books, DVDs, and more at Pratt Library locations.
Picking Up Materials
Use one of the following methods to pick up physical items from the Pratt Library collection.
In person: Pratt locations are open at 100% capacity. Customers can come into the building to pick up holds, or browse the collection and check out materials in-person. Self-checkout is available at select locations.
Books by Mail: Baltimore City residents who are confined to their homes can have materials mailed to them for free.
Looking for a book that’s not in our catalog? Marina Interlibrary Loan is a free, statewide interlibrary loan system for requesting books your Library does not own from public libraries across the country.
Library staff can check out your materials at the counter
Books by Mail is an option for Baltimore City residents confined to their homes
Returning Materials
Materials can be returned to any Pratt location at the circulation desk or through the outdoor book drop. Digital devices, Library of Things, and STEAM to GO kits must be returned in person at the counter.
Book by Mail items can be returned via book drop, or by mail. Customers will receive a shipping label with their order but will be responsible for return postage costs.
Library book drops are a convenient way to return most materials
Book return containers are available outside library locations
Computer & Internet Devices
With a Pratt Library card, you can borrow a Chromebook and mobile hotspot with WiFi to get online from the comfort of your home.
Checkout Limits, Renewals, Overdue Materials & Fees
Find information about Pratt Library checkout limits, renewals, overdue materials, and additional fees.