Your local library is one of the Nicest Places in America, according to “Good Morning America” and Reader’s Digest.
ABC’s morning television show ran a five-minute segment on the Enoch Pratt Free Library system this morning as part of it ongoing series on places “with the sole mission to spread love and help people get a second chance,” as anchor Robin Roberts put it.
In addition to highlighting the basic functions of the library, such as loaning out books and connecting people with information, reporter T.J. Holmes touches on the Pratt’s community-oriented Mobile Jobs Center and its program connecting citizens to social workers.
Watch it below:
#NicestPlacesInAmerica: BALTIMORE, MARYLAND
We’re counting down THE Nicest Place in America with @readersdigest! One of those finalists is Baltimore. @tjholmes takes us there where a library in’t just changing lives, but building them. https://t.co/hOA4cYZxGS pic.twitter.com/WxzAPLA4Re
— Good Morning America (@GMA) October 9, 2018
The Pratt is one of 10 finalists for the top prize, which includes a cover feature in the November issue of the magazine and another story on “Good Morning America.” Notably, it is one of the only representatives from a major city. A winner will be revealed during the Oct. 11 broadcast.
On Twitter, Mayor Catherine Pugh said the city is “very proud” of the library system and the work it does for Baltimoreans.
We are very proud of the @prattlibrary for it’s commitment to the people of Baltimore and being named one of the “Nicest Places in America” by @GMA and @readersdigest. #baltimore #mybmore #GMA https://t.co/i6TaGXEEW2
— Mayor Catherine Pugh (@MayorPugh50) October 9, 2018
In a statement, Enoch Pratt Free Library CEO Heidi Daniel said the community programs are a continuation of the mission envisioned by the system’s namesake founder.
“I’m so proud that the work our staff does everyday to help the city of Baltimore has received national recognition. When Enoch Pratt founded this library back in 1882 he said ‘My library shall be for all, rich and poor without distinction of race or color,” she said. “That is a mission we still live by today. Everyone who walks in the door is treated equally and we try to provide opportunities for all. We are honored to be recognized as a catalyst for change in Baltimore.”
