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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.

Public Computer Guidelines

Please observe the following guidelines while using the Public Computers at the Central Library.

  • You will need either a library card or computer use card and a pin number that can be obtained at the Circulation Desk in the Central Library. Out of state visitors can obtain temporary visitor cards good for two hours of same day computer use from the Circulation Desk or the librarian at the Information Desk.
  • You are limited to four (4) total hours of computer time per day.
  • Prior familiarity with the software programs is necessary. Some computer reference material is available. Library staff will be glad to assist as time allows, and appointments can be made for additional help.
  • Game playing is not allowed on Public Computers.
  • Eating is not allowed in the computer area.
  • Do not attempt to download and/or install software programs on library computers. If you do, you may lose library privileges.
  • Please be mindful of others working in the library and keep voices low.
  • Customers are encouraged to bring their own headphones. Sound from headphones should not be audible to other customers. Headphones may be purchased at the Circulation Desk for $1.50.
  • If there is a problem with a computer, please notify staff.
  • Save your work to portable USB drives (flash drives/jump drives). Flash drives may be purchased at the Circulation Desk for $6.50.
  • When leaving the a computer mid-session, please lock the computer. PC Lock gives you 20 minutes before your session expires.
  • Always End Session when finished to ensure your privacy.
  • Five free black and white printouts are allowed per day. Additional printing costs ten cents per page. Money can be added to your card number on the APM machine.

Learn more about using SAM to lock your PC, end a session, print, and use the APM machine.

Computer Training
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Computers at library table

Computer Training


Learn computer basics, job and career computer skills, and more with Pratt Library computer training.

Public Computers
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Public Computer Center at Central Library

Public Computers


Pratt Library locations have computers available for research, job searching, and more.