Baltimore's Cathedral of Books: The Peabody Library

Regarded as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, the George Peabody Library in Baltimore is a treat for both bibliophiles and architecture buffs alike. With five stories of containing over 300,000 books housed in a 61-foot high atrium ringed by cast-iron balconies, seeing the space firsthand is nearly as inspiring as reading any tome in its collection – yet it’s easy to miss visiting this gem if you’re unfamiliar with the city and stick to more familiar destinations in the Inner Harbor. Now part of The John Hopkins University, the Peabody Library was originally part of the Peabody Institute. Designed by architect Edward G. Lind, it was established in 1878 as part of an initiative by banker/philanthropist George Peabody to create a learning resource “for the free use of all persons who desire to consult it.” As a child, George Peabody (1795–1869) was only able to attend a few years of school because he was forced to work at a young age to support his impoverished family. After building a small fortune in groceries and real estate, he moved to Baltimore and became a successful financier, founding the George Peabody & Company banking firm, which would be renamed J. P. Morgan & Co. after he passed it on to his successor, Julius Spencer Morgan. Though he was parsimonious in his personal and business affairs, he was a benefactor to many charitable causes and is considered the “father of modern philanthropy”. Education was an area he was particularly keen to support, perhaps due to his own lack of access to it as a youth. Among the many museums, academies, and trusts he founded, the Peabody Institute was one of his best known, famous worldwide as a beacon of the arts, sciences, and culture. It was a symbol not only of the city’s prominence but of Peabody’s status as the wealthiest man in America – one who had risen from humble beginnings, fought with a state militia in the War of 1812, and hoped to use his considerable fortune to create lasting change and promote equality. The George Peabody Library is currently closed to the public because of the university’s Covid-19 response, but otherwise is generally open to the public except for special events. You can find out more about hours and accessibility on the library’s website at www.library.jhu.edu/library-hours/george-peabody-library/