Maryland State Library Resource Center

Enoch Pratt Free Library

Information Services Department - Maryland State Library Resource Center

Information Services Department

The Information Services Department provides customers with immediate and reliable answers to a variety of questions from customers and other library staff from both inside and outside the State of Maryland. In order to meet these needs, the department maintains a collection of reference materials on a breadth of topics; these items include books, maps, databases, newspapers, and magazines covering all areas of information.

The department staff consists of generalists who have a broad knowledge of the Enoch Pratt Free Library as both the public library for the City of Baltimore and as the State Library Resource Center.

Services:

Telephone Reference
Answers general reference questions via telephone on a broad variety of topics. Additionally, Telephone Reference staff can provide basic assistance with library accounts, book renewals, and placing holds. Telephone Reference can be reached at 410-396-5430.

Public Computer Center
Provides one-on-one assistance with 32 computers, including job searching, job applications, and resume writing. In addition, we offer formal computer and Internet instruction in a classroom setting. This instruction ranges from beginner classes, such as Introduction to Computers and Introduction to Windows, to advanced topics such as Excel and PowerPoint. We also offer many general audience-workshops such as Facebook and Social Networking, eBooks, and Photo Editing. One-on-one computer instruction is also available by appointment.

Information Desk
Answers general reference and directional questions from walk-in patrons, and provides assistance with the use of 41 computers, a photocopier, and fax machine in Central Hall.

Email Reference
Coordinates Pratt’s email reference service, including answering questions and handling referrals as needed.

Maryland AskUsNow!
Coordinates and administers Pratt’s virtual chat reference service as part of a state consortium, which includes ensuring consistent customer service by overseeing all of Pratt’s chat service providers.

Statewide Training & Events

Calendar

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