Groundbreaking Ceremony with Maryland Lt. Governor Boyd Rutherford and Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings Blake marks the beginning of the nearly four-year long project
The Enoch Pratt Free Library today formally marked the beginning of the renovation and restoration project of the Central Library/State Library Resource Center.The $115 million project will preserve the past and position the Enoch Pratt Free Library to serve all Marylanders in the future. With more than half a million visitors each year, the state-of-the-art renovations to the Central Library/State Library Resource Center will improve the building’s infrastructure and increase opportunities for learning, research, creativity and civic engagement. It will complement the Pratt’s significant print collection with the latest technologies, welcoming a vibrant future while preserving a cherished historic landmark.The renovation is expected to be completed in nearly four years. The Central Library will remain open for patrons throughout the construction.
“We’re excited for patrons to be a part of this monumental project as we turn a new page in the Pratt Library’s rich history,” said Carla D. Hayden, Chief Executive Officer of the Enoch Pratt Free Library. “This renovation will further enhance this 21st century library while keeping the integrity of this historic building. During its original dedication in 1886, Enoch Pratt generously gave the library to the City of Baltimore “for the benefit of the present and all future generations.” When the renovation project is complete, generations of patrons across Baltimore and Maryland will have access to the wonderful services and treasures this building provides.”
Renovation highlights:
- More public library space than is currently available."Creation Stations" to fuel creative learning.
- Expanded training/conference facilities
- More multi-purpose spaces
- New Teen and Young Adult wing.
- Expanded and restored Children’s Department.
- Restore the majesty of the Central Hall to make it a "Town Hall.”
- Designated Job/Career Center
- Technology “Take-out" collections
- More public computers
- Up to date and integrated audio-visual equipment
- Family restrooms
- Refinished historic furniture
- New heating, cooling, fire protection, lighting, security and information technology systems
- Catering support
The project is funded by the State of Maryland, City of Baltimore and library donors.
Managing Architects:
Ayers/Saint/Gross is an award-winning multi-disciplinary architecture firm that was established in Baltimore in 1912 under the name of Sill, Buckler & Fenhagen. In continuous practice since then, the firm later became Ayers/Saint and, in the 1980’s, Ayers/Saint/Gross. With a focus on higher education ASG works internationally. In the 1980’s ASG worked with the Enoch Pratt Free Library on the design and construction of the four mezzanines at the first floor. This relationship continued in the 1990’s with the development of the Parts I and II Facilities Program submissions, the Meyerhoff Children’s Garden and the 50,000 square foot Annex, which opened in 2003. ASG is managing the renovation of the historic Central Library that will be designed by Beyer Blinder Belle Architects of New York.
Lead Architects:
Beyer Blinder Belle is an award-winning architecture, planning and interior design practice of 155 professionals in New York and Washington, DC, with recognized expertise in historic preservation and its role in maintaining the urban fabric of our cities. The firm has guided the restoration of many significant buildings and sites, including Grand Central Terminal, New York City Hall, and the Maryland State House Old House of Delegates’ Chamber.
Construction Management Company:
Gilbane Building Company has been “Building Maryland” for more than 45 years. With projects across the state from western and southern Maryland to the Eastern Shore, Gilbane’s portfolio spans from rural western and southern Maryland to the Eastern Shore, Baltimore City and the highly developed I-95 and 270 corridors. From the expansion of one of state’s most recognizable attractions, the Baltimore Convention Center, to building the new headquarters and hall of fame for US Lacrosse, and the repurposing and expansion of University of Maryland’s iconic Cole Field House; Gilbane teams have managed more than $12 billion worth of work around the state. The firm understands the impact that construction has on the environment and are dedicated to helping clients achieve their desired sustainability goals. Some of our notable LEED Gold projects include: University of Maryland’s Physical Sciences Complex, Towson University’s new SECU Arena, and Anne Arundel Medical Center campus expansion.
The Enoch Pratt Free Library, the nation’s first free library system, opened its doors in 1886, the result of the generosity and imagination of businessman and philanthropist Enoch Pratt. Mr. Pratt envisioned a public library where “races, ages, and socio-economic classes mingled and people could educate themselves – without cost,” and his passionate belief continues to guide the organization. Today’s Pratt Library – Baltimore’s public library and the Maryland State Library Resource Center – consists of the Central Library, an anchor library, 20 branches, two bookmobiles, Pratt Centers for Technology Training, and the Regional Information Center. The Library’s mission is to provide equal access to information, services and opportunities that empower, enrich, and enhance the quality of life for all.
For more information about the renovation and restoration project, visit our website at www.prattlibrary.org. Also look for the Pratt Library on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, and YouTube.
Remember at the Enoch Pratt Free Library: “Your journey starts here.”
