The Enoch Pratt Free
Library locations will remain closed throughout this state of emergency.
Library officials are working closely with city and state health experts to monitor the spread of COVID-19.
“While it is difficult to have our buildings closed, the health and safety of our customers and staff remains our top priority,” said Pratt Library President/CEO Heidi Daniel. “The Pratt staff continues to be innovative in the ways we are helping our community throughout this pandemic.”
The Pratt eLibrary has seen increased usage, with more than a thousand people signing up for the Pratt eCard within the past 10 days. Librarians are continuing virtual reference service providing live online chats through the Pratt’s Ask Us Now service and via email. State
Library Resource Center staff have created an unemployment guide for those who’ve lost their jobs due to COVID-19 and workforce librarians are providing one-on-one consultations to anyone who emails gojobs@prattlibrary.org.
A new Spring Reading program has launched to encourage kids to keep learning. Library staff is planning increased virtual programs including taped story times on the Pratt’s digital platforms. Library leaders are working collaboratively with Baltimore City Public Schools to find innovative solutions to bridge the digital divide for students. The Pratt also provides free online live tutoring through the Brainfuse Help Now database.
Library officials are working with the Maryland State Department of Education to provide buildings to potentially be utilized as childcare centers for healthcare workers. Pratt staff is also working from home using the library’s 3D printers to help create personal protective equipment for healthcare workers in collaboration with Open Works Baltimore.
“The Pratt Library is always here for Baltimore, and we’ll keep doing everything we can to help this city and our state through this difficult time,” said Daniel.
For more information, check out prattlibrary.org.