Enoch Pratt Free Library - Orleans Street Branch — Attraction in Baltimore

The children's librarian, Sammie, is super sweet, a dynamic storyteller and an excellent program host. The branch manager, Kim, needs to be demoted to a position where she does not interact with the public. Yesterday (3/11/25), Kim yelled at my 2 year old, lied and said she was screaming and then gave me unsolicited parenting advice. My 2 year old was playing with another 2 year old in the children’s section; both girls were laughing and enjoying themselves. Kim did not say anything to the other parent, who happened to be white; she only addressed me and my child. This is not an isolated incident. In January, I witnessed Kim yelling at two elementary-aged black boys for playing with the blocks in the children’s section. She did not redirect them to the books, computers or craft and movie program that was being hosted in the meeting room. Thankfully there was a board meeting this evening at the Central Branch and I was able to speak my concerns directly to the CEO, Chad Helton, the board, other staff and fellow...

Ridiculous business hours... They allow parents to bring in their noisy screaming kids and don't say anything, but they will come over and get on your case just for having your eyes closed. One of the guards yelled at me for having an open bag of grapes when I wasn't even eating them, yet they were letting other people get away with eating food from Burger King!

If you are looking for a quiet and peaceful place to read/work, then I'm sorry to tell you that this isn't...

Helpful for simply getting out of the house. Actually feel like I'm a lot less stressed out right now. Plus, it's nearby and I can walk to the location without missing the chance to look at a few of my favorite buildings architecture wise (the synagogues). Convenience is key. And I find the staff friendly, professional and very patient. Only other branch with the same description in my book, in terms of staff, would be the Edmondson...