This branch of the Baltimore County Public Library system is close to my work. Occasionally I will…read morehave books that I place on hold sent here so I can grab them after work. What I like about the Essex Branch: *Lot's of parking (it is part of a strip mall complex) *Access to all the books that the library system has to offer *Easy check out *The history about the branch that is posted on the walls. I spent a lot of time reading through these articles and information the first time I visited. So why only three stars? Namely, this branch is a lot smaller than the normal one I go to making computer access and comfortable seating more hit and miss. Also more hit and miss, if I'm popping in for a specific book there is less of a chance that they would have it.

This is my second favorite Baltimore County Public Library branch. The library is smaller than some…read moreof the other libraries in the county, but they make great use of their space with computer stations, quiet study rooms, activities, and of course a decent selection of books. I spent many Sundays here during my first semester of grad school. I never had any difficulty finding space in the quiet study rooms, and I found that the dedicated quiet space encouraged the quality of my writing for my weekly discussions and papers. The library also offers printing services for a very small fee. The librarians are friendly and kind, and remain knowledgeable about a wide array of books and other resources.

I was able to come here to renew my library card! Staff were friendly and helpful…read more The small branch seems more kid centered, which didn't feel like somewhere I would frequent, but I would definitely come back to see what books they have available.

This is the oldest library in Balitmore city. I'm sad I just found it a few months ago. It's such a…read morelovely place. It's quite small but packed with the best items and it mainly attracts children as there's a school next door. But the staff is always super friendly - I never have my physical card but they can find me or enter in my number. The library also does a summer reading challenge (I just learned about this). If you sign up for the challenge in June, you get a free book for three months. I only signed up in July so I got my first free book and I will be going back in August. They also do a reading challenge so you just tell them how many books you read that month and then they enter you into a raffle I will for sure be signing up early next year and I just recommend everyone do this. It's amazing!

This isn't my first choice in libraries as it's not necessarily the closest to me, however it might…read morehave to be. This location is utterly breathtaking in terms of accessibility for people in the city and the architecture. I champion all libraries and we should be flooding them to take advantage of the clubs, panels, classes, and other resources. Today I checked out the Carmelo Anthony exhibit which has been extended to the 19th of January. It's completely FREE! It was truly a great exhibit and so amazing to see and relearn about so many pivotal points in his career, community impacts and soundtrack to his life and career. You also can sign up for a Melo library card (limited edition)!! I think this is a great initiative to get people into the library again and reintroduce why the library is an amazing place to be!

The building is breathtaking. This is a wonderful place to attend an event. Parking can be a…read morechallenge.

*Review for Storyville*…read more Storyville is the best!! What an amazing play option for littles! As soon as my daughter got comfortable walking, we came here to let her explore. She loves it! Plus they have a room off to the side where I can put the stroller and diaper bag and there's a bathroom for diaper changes and washing hands afterwards. They also give you a bag in case your little one puts anything in their mouth so they can sanitize afterward which is so smart. The only small thing that can be annoying is some parents come and ignore their kids, preferring to be on their phones and let their kids run rogue. Not ideal. I had a kid come up to my daughter trying to pick her up to give her a hug once - no parent anywhere to be found. I like that there's an age limit, although I don't know how strict they are with that because I've seen some bigger kids before. But it's an amazing free resource!

Storyville is the reason I gave this 5 stars. There are only 2 locations that have Woodlawn and…read moreRosedale . This little interactive area for kids age 0-12 years is amazing. So much to see and do. I love it. I bring my son here 2 times a week and he always has such a good time

I've always been fond of my local libraries. I've come here in the past to vote, but this visit was…read moreto utilize the library tools. I needed to print some documents. My printer was down and I had to have them quickly so, I knew I could do that here. I dealt with two librarians who were very helpful. When I couldn't log onto the computer one of the librarians checked my account and made a change that allowed me to sign on. Then, when I needed to print, she instructed me on the procedures. You can't just print directly to a printer. Once you print the items you want, you'll head to another computer, log on there, and your documents will be in a que waiting to be printed. You can choose color or black and white, then print. The first 20 pages each day are free to print. Cool! The computers were packed. Luckily I found one that was available, but keep that in mind. It was a calm, welcoming environment. They also have security on-site. That made me curious, but I suppose it's better to have them there and not need them than need them and not have them. Check out your local library!

Stopped by this branch because their location had a copy of a book I'd been meaning to read. The…read moreelectronic hold process via the website was easy and the staff was helpful when I arrived for pickup. They introduced me to Summer Break Baltimore, a summer reading initiative. With enrollment you receive a free T-shirt and a new book during the months of June, July and August! They also have prize raffles when you complete a book or participate in an event. Looking forward to lots of book time this summer!

During COVID, I actually avoided this location because I thought the drive up window at Perry Hall…read morewould be a much easier option. So for the past couple months I've been driving out of my way to the PH branch. Two weeks ago I thought I would give the WM a shot. Mannnn I have been so wrong about them. You drive in, call the number on the sign and tell them your name and which parking spot you're in (this is really only necessary if they are bringing the books to your car). I thought it would take forever to get someone on the phone, but each time it was right away (my 3rd trip in 2 weeks, yes I'm a bookworm). Then you have the option to meet them at the front door with your books. It was less than 30 seconds of a wait time!! While I like the lazy option of not getting out of my car at the PH branch, this was just as fast and convenient (if not faster because PH usually has at least 1-2 cars in line already).

Popped in quick to print something and the front desk woman was very kind and helpful!read more

Our friend's toddler enjoys the little Light Street Branch of Baltimore's Enoch Pratt Free Library!…read moreWe stopped in to wind down from a busy active time near the harbor (May 2026). It has a nice children's section, and besides books for a range of ages, there's toys, play floor-areas, and drawing & coloring supplies. Computer terminals that parents can use, art on the walls, and helpful staff. We like it after a full day, or as a quiet warm / cool and dry refuge when the weather gets tough.

A super cute neighborhood focused public library branch - I went for the first time to attend one…read moreof their free events, creating lanterns for lunar new year. Parking is really hard in this area because it's on a very busy street and in Fed Hill. This is very close to Cross Street market so you can grab a bite while you stop at this library branch if you wanted. I do think their selection is more focused on the youth because there are a lot of families and schools nearby but glad I finally got to go in because I've seen it for years.