Work has begun on an $8.6 million renovation and expansion of the Forest Park branch of the Enoch Pratt Free Library system.
Mayor Brandon Scott announced on Wednesday that preliminary work is underway on a project that will result in a full scale modernization of the existing library building at 3023 Garrison Blvd.
“I am proud to announce that less than six months after we broke ground on a new Park Heights Library, we are beginning another exciting project: the renovation and expansion of Forest Park Library,” Scott said in a statement. “This isn’t just a physical makeover. It’s an expansion of services and resources to serve this community. Together, we are delivering the world-class library that the people of Forest Park deserve.”
The Forest Park branch first opened on Nov. 29, 1910 at Garrison Boulevard and Callaway Avenue, one of several around the city that was funded by the philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The building was remodeled and enlarged in 1954. For more than 115 years, it has served the Forest Park; Dickeyville; Ashburton; Hanlon Park; Gwynn Oak and Forest Park Golf areas. It is currently closed for the renovation work and completion is anticipated in 2028.
Community hub
The Enoch Pratt system is working in partnership with the city’s Department of General Services (DGS) to expand the library’s capacity, improve accessibility and create a more welcoming environment for patrons.
Officials say the work will transform the library into a flexible community hub that better meets the needs of the Forest Park community. They say its expanded footprint and redesigned layout will create brighter, more open spaces.
Interior renovations will include construction of a new meeting room for community gatherings and programming, new staff offices and study rooms, as well as updated cabinetry and casework for library stacks and collections, and contemporary fixtures and finishes throughout. Changes will include a new children’s space, new teen and tween zones with technology access; and self-checkout machines.
Mechanical system upgrades will include installation of a high-efficiency HVAC [heating, ventilation and air conditioning] system, upgraded electrical and plumbing infrastructure, new interior lighting, and fire suppression sprinklers. The facility will transition fully to electrical service after existing gas services are removed.
Enhanced accessibility features include a barrier-free entrance off Fairview Avenue, elevator access to all levels, and improved pathways around the site. Family-friendly and gender-neutral restrooms will be created.
Site improvements will include new seating areas with Wi-Fi access, upgraded lighting, and landscaped spaces designed to encourage community use beyond traditional library hours.
The design contractor is HBM Architecture + Interior Design. Prime AE is the construction contractor.
‘Cherished resource’
“This project not only revitalizes a cherished historical resource but also enhances access to knowledge, technology, and innovative programming for all our residents,” said City Council Vice President Sharon Green Middleton, in a statement. “I am excited to see how this renewed space will inspire creativity, learning, and connection within our community for generations to come.”
“On behalf of DGS and our Capital Projects division, we could not be more pleased to move forward with this project at Forest Park,” said agency Director Berke Attila, in a statement. “It is an honor to refresh and modernize a wonderful building that also is historic and a beloved neighborhood resource.”
