George Peabody Library

The George Peabody Library is an academic library located at Mount Vernon Place with five tiers of galleries featuring cast-iron balconies that rise toward a skylight overhead. The building holds around 300,000 volumes focused on nineteenth-century literature, religion, British art, architecture, and American history research materials.

A philanthropist established this library in 1857 with a substantial donation, though construction did not begin until 1866 due to the Civil War. After its completion, it became an important center for scholarship and research in Baltimore.

The library bears the name of the philanthropist who funded it, reflecting how personal generosity shaped Baltimore's cultural institutions. Visitors see how the space brings together scholars and researchers working with materials spanning literature, religion, and historical documents.

The building is open to visitors with ground-floor access available regularly, while upper floors can be reached by arrangement with staff. Photography for commercial purposes follows a separate schedule outside regular visiting hours.

The interior displays a striking design scheme with black cast-iron railings and gold-topped columns that create a strongly vertical sense of space and light. This visually notable setting has become a preferred backdrop for film productions and private gatherings.

Location: Baltimore

Inception: 1857

Architects: Edmund George Lind

Part of: Johns Hopkins University, Sheridan Libraries

Address: 17 E Mount Vernon Pl, Baltimore, MD 21202

Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday 10:00-17:00; Sunday 11:00-17:00

Phone: +16672086715

Website: https://library.jhu.edu/library-hours/george-peabody-library

GPS coordinates: 39.29740,-76.61500

Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:03