BALTIMORE — The Enoch Pratt Free Library today celebrated the grand reopening of its Brooklyn Branch with a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by city leaders, library officials, staff, and community members. The reopening marks the completion of a comprehensive interior renovation that modernizes the nearly century-old branch while preserving its role as a vital neighborhood anchor.
The project was made possible entirely through funding from the American Rescue Plan Act, supported by U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen and Maryland’s congressional delegation and distributed locally by the Mayor’s Office of Recovery Programs. The Brooklyn Branch renovation represents the third Pratt Library branch renovation completed with ARPA funding, following earlier renovations at the Walbrook and Herring Run branches.
“The Brooklyn Branch has long been a place where families come to learn, connect, and thrive. I am glad to see Baltimore City put these federal funds to good use by renovating this space to ensure that this historic library can continue serving Baltimore residents for years to come,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen.
Renovations included a full interior refresh with new furniture, paint, carpeting, and a new HVAC system. Construction began in September 2024, with the HVAC replacement providing an opportunity to reimagine the interior space to better serve today’s library users. The Brooklyn Branch originally opened in 1921 and was rebuilt in 1965. The project was completed in coordination with the Baltimore City Department of General Services, which oversees capital improvements on behalf of the City.
“The City was proud to deliver ARPA funding for these upgrades to the Brooklyn Branch, to ensure it continues to serve residents for generations to come,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “In addition to the investments we celebrated today, in recent years, we made upgrades to the Govans, Walbrook and Herring Run Branches, opened the first new branch of the library in 20 years in Johnston Square, and broke ground on a new Park Heights branch. Together, we’re making sure all of our libraries remain a place that supports learning, connection, and opportunity for everyone who walks through the door.”
Brooklyn is home to one of the largest Spanish-speaking populations in Baltimore, as well as residents of the historic Brooklyn Homes — communities served by this branch. Just a block away is Maree G. Farring Elementary Middle School, home to a Judy Center that supports early learning and families. The Brooklyn Branch is a frequent after-school destination for students and families and continues to serve as a welcoming, safe space for people of all ages.
“This branch is a lifeline for families in Brooklyn,” said Councilwoman Phylicia Porter (District 10), who represents the district. “The improvements made here ensure that this library remains a place where residents can gather, learn, and access neighborhood resources close to home. This is a true testament of community engagement and willpower.”
“With this renovation complete, we’re proud to welcome the community back into a space that reflects both its history and its future,” said Chad Helton, President and CEO of the Enoch Pratt Free Library. “This project also marks an important milestone as the final branch renovation supported through ARPA funding, while we continue broader investments across the library system.”
Programming has resumed at the Brooklyn Branch, including story times on Wednesdays and Thursdays, pop-up programs, college information sessions, and renters’ rights workshops. The branch is also home to a Pratt Free Market, stocked throughout each month with free goods, which has become a well-used resource for neighborhood residents.
Following remarks, city and library leaders were joined by staff, board leadership, and community members for a ribbon cutting, after which the public was invited to enjoy activities throughout the day and explore the newly renovated space.
The Brooklyn Branch reopening is part of a broader period of investment for the Enoch Pratt Free Library. Renovations at the Forest Park Branch are expected to begin in the coming weeks, and the library celebrated the groundbreaking of the new Park Heights Branch in 2025.
About the Enoch Pratt Free Library
The Enoch Pratt Free Library is Baltimore’s public library system and the Maryland State Library Resource Center. Founded in 1882 by philanthropist Enoch Pratt, the library’s mission is to empower, enrich, and enhance the quality of life for all through equitable access to information, services, and opportunity. The Pratt Library includes the Central Library, more than 20 neighborhood branches, bookmobiles, the Mobile Job Center, and technology training centers. For more information, visit www.prattlibrary.org.