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Location Closure The Forest Park, Washington Village, Herring Run, & Brooklyn branches are closed for renovations. Learn more here.

National Library Week 2023: There's More to the Story - ALA graphics and Pratt Library photo of a mom and child choosing books
Pratt Library's Branch on Wheels, historic Bookmobile photo

Get to Know the Pratt

The Pratt Library is one of the oldest free public library systems in the United States, and serves as an essential community resource for the citizens of Baltimore through its 21 locations throughout the City. We also serve the state of Maryland as the State Library Resource Center, and provide internet access for public libraries, schools, and local government, and an extensive collection of research databases for Maryland public libraries through SAILOR. Learn more about the rich history of the Enoch Pratt Free Library, and the many ways we serve our local and state communities.

Pratt Library History
Librarian with young children and a book

Make a Gift

Public funding pays only a portion of the Library's operating expenses. We depend on support from individuals like you to support summer reading, workforce development, and so much more. Your gift helps keep these vital services free for all of Baltimore.

Make a gift
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Advocate for Libraries

Learn more about advocating for libraries across the country with resources from the American Library Association (ALA), and stay up to date with ongoing advocacy efforts already in place.

Advocate for libraries
Books & More
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Books & More


Your journey starts here! A Pratt library card gives you access to everything from books, eBooks, and audio books to movies and music.

Social Impact Programs
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Social Impact Programs


Community members can get free assistance and advice from lawyers, social workers, nurses, addiction recovery specialists, and more in Pratt locations.

Visit a Library
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Visit a Library


Visit one the Pratt Library locations across the city of Baltimore and thank a librarian for all that they do.

“It's a gorgeous building. The staff is always polite, helpful, and knowledgeable. The collection of books is huge; I can often find all the old books of an author I'm encountering for the first time. It's a real treasure.”

Anita S. –Central Library

“I love the Enoch Pratt Free Library. I've enjoyed the Pratt for over 50 years.”

Deborah B.

“I retired from Hawaii to Baltimore and one of the reasons for the decision was due to the Enoch Pratt Library. Need I say more?”

Elizabeth B.

“The Enoch Pratt libraries are very welcoming and one of my favorite places to go!”

Sally B.

“The library is an awesome and underutilized resource to the community, and I encourage everyone to use it more often.”

Jaclyn M.