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

Central Library

Open now; Closing at 5:00 PM

400 Cathedral Street
Baltimore, MD 21201

Map & Directions  |  Parking & Public Transit
Day Opens   Closes
Monday 10:00 AM 8:00 PM
Tuesday 10:00 AM 8:00 PM
Wednesday 10:00 AM 8:00 PM
Thursday 10:00 AM 8:00 PM
Friday 10:00 AM 5:00 PM
Saturday 10:00 AM 5:00 PM
Sunday CLOSED
Holiday Closing Schedule

The Central Library is located in the heart of Mount Vernon. With more than half a million visitors each year, the state-of-the-art renovations to the Central Library complement Pratt's significant print collection with the latest technologies, welcoming a vibrant future while preserving a cherished historic landmark.

The Central Library was designated the Maryland State Library Research Center (SLRC) by the General Assembly in 1971. This designation and accompanying State support allow all Maryland citizens to have access to a public library whose resources are unparalleled in the State.

Get a behind the scenes look and at the Library's collections, and learn about the history of the Central Library building with a free tour. Check the tour schedule for details.

Upcoming Events

Photography Print Exchange TOMORROW 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Photography Print Exchange Central Library Program Details
Program Details
2025 SLRC Annual Genealogy Lecture Series: Judy G. Russell TOMORROW 10:15 AM to 5:00 PM
2025 SLRC Annual Genealogy Lecture Series: Judy G… Central Library Program Details
Program Details
Family Storytime TOMORROW 11:00 AM
Family Storytime Central Library Program Details
Program Details
NAMI: In Our Own Voice TOMORROW 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
NAMI: In Our Own Voice Central Library Program Details
Program Details
Rambling Readers Thursday – May 15 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Rambling Readers Central Library Program Details
Program Details

Departments & Collections

Senator Barbara A. Mikulski Room

Senator Barbara A. Mikulski Room


(410) 396‑5430

Features & Services

  1. State Library Resource Center
  2. ADA/handicap accessible
  3. Free Wi-Fi
  4. Computers for public use
  5. Photocopier and printing services
  6. Children and Teen sections
  7. Job and Career assistance
  8. Events and programs for all ages
  9. Social Worker in the Library
  10. Lawyer in the Library
  11. Self check-out
Hackerman Artist in Residence

The Hackerman Artist & Writer in Residence Programs bring creatives from around Baltimore to share and create at the Pratt Library.

Learn More
Community & Meeting Rooms

Reserve a room at the Central Library for your next meeting or community event.

Learn More

“I've loved the Pratt and especially Central since I was 6 years old. Central has history in its stunning architecture.”

Signe L. –Central Library