Central Library & Cultural Center

#GreatnessGrowsHere Comes to Life

A first of its kind community hub along the BLC and a model for joint use, the new Central Library & Cultural Center will be a regional destination of international distinction with iconic, sustainable design, and a community economic development engine. The hub of innovation, discovery, lifelong learning for all ages, and cultural arts, the Prince George’s County Central Library & Cultural Center will be the gateway to opportunity and exploration. It will close the opportunity gap with passionate and knowledgeable staff who support workforce development, access to technology and internet, immigrant services, and learning for every age.

Project Description

Connecting, celebrating, and activating experiences that celebrate culture, inclusion, and community. This community space will be a point of pride for every Prince Georgian that showcases the social impact-focused excellence that inspires residents to reach for and achieve their dreams. The mixed indoor-outdoor building will feature the following on four levels:

  • E/Studio: free co-working and learning center for entrepreneurs and small business owners, with a focus on being a welcoming environment for immigrants

  • Cultural exhibits and interactive displays to foster intergenerational creativity, diversity, and belonging

  • Rooftop terrace for special events and programs that will generate revenue for the facility and contribute to long-term financial sustainability

  • Office and meeting room spaces for key library partners and community use

  • Children’s library that will include a stage, puppet theater, and rich resources for storytelling

  • Teen zone offering career/education development, gaming, and a safe hangout space

  • Boutique shop to sell both local art, goods, and Library Foundation merchandise

  • Outdoor living room/green space for outdoor gatherings, a farmer’s market, or enjoying a quiet lunch

  • Art studio where Prince Georgians can linger and connect with each other as they create pottery, paint, craft, or meet with their knitting group

This is one of five signature projects supported by $400 million in bonding authority that County Executive Alsobrooks and the Prince George’s State Delegation secured from the Maryland Stadium Authority in 2022, the first time in history that the County has worked with the Maryland Stadium Authority on a project.