We know that 520 Park is perfectly located amidst so many great restaurants and attractions, but one that might escape your attention is the Enoch Pratt Free Library - just a few blocks away. The Central Library of Baltimore City's public library system, was designated the State Library Resource Center (SLRC) by the General Assembly in 1971. While it's certainly no surprise that it has wide selections of books, our public libraries offer so much more. Though the library will remain open throughout construction, a major renovation is underway until 2018 that will preserve the past and position the Enoch Pratt Free Library to serve all Marylanders in the future. The library currently serves half a million visitors each year, and the plans for the state-of-the-art renovations to the Central Library will improve the building's infrastructure and increase opportunities for learning, research, creativity and civic engagement. Furthermore, as described by the library website, 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 will yield more public library space than is currently available, along with expanded training/conference facilities and multi-purpose spaces. There will be "Creation Stations" to fuel creative learning for a new Teen and Young Adult wing and expanded children's department. Improvements will restore the majesty of the central hall while modernizing technology with more public computers, audio-visual equipment, and even a job/career center. While all of these developments are on the way, you still have access to all the great facilities and programs offered in the meantime. It has multiple rooms for events including a large auditorium, the Poe Room for more intimate events, and a fantastic Children's Department with rooms for early learning and play. Events include frequent free movie screenings and readings by local and nationally famous authors. Be sure to check out the calendar for all the upcoming programs and events to see what will pique your interest. If the best things in life are free, then given our proximity to the impressive, block-long, central branch, life here is pretty good! Enoch Pratt Free Library - Central branch 400 Cathedral Street Baltimore, MD 21201 prattlibrary.org