Advocate for a New Essex Branch

  • By Baltimore County Public Library

On April 16, Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier took a major step forward in advancing the library's capital improvement plan. In her annual budget message, she proposed a referendum to authorize $58 million in bond funding to build a new Essex Branch. 

exterior concept photo of future Essex branch

This investment represents more than bricks and mortar—it is a commitment to equitable access, lifelong learning and vibrant community spaces that bring people together. The proposed budget must now be approved by the Baltimore County Council before the bond initiative can appear on the November general election ballot. This is a critical moment and an opportunity for community members to help shape what comes next.  

The Vision 

The new Essex Branch will be unlike any other library in our system and is a long-overdue investment in the community. Baltimore County Government has already acquired and cleared 4.61 acres at 1513 to 1519 Old Eastern Avenue, the future home of this 36,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art, library facility. Designed to serve residents of all ages, the branch will feature: 

interior concept photo of future Essex branch
  • An auditorium
  • A food pantry
  • A tool-lending area
  • An outdoor play area
  • Outdoor walkways

You can see more renderings of the space on the Essex location page.  

Strong Support at Every Level of Government 

This progress reflects meaningful collaboration across local, state and federal partners. We thank County Executive Klausmeier for championing this project in the FY27 budget. We also recognize Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks for securing two million dollars in federal funding as well as State Senator Johnny Ray Salling and State Delegate Ric Metzgar for leading the effort to obtain a $500,000 state bond. Their collective commitment highlights the importance of this project for Essex and all of Baltimore County. 

Take Action 

Now is the time to make your voice heard. Contact your County Council member and let them know you support funding for a new Essex Branch. Hearing directly from constituents plays a vital role in shaping decisions. To learn more or to send a message of support, visit Foundation for Baltimore County Public Library’s website. 

Together, we can bring this transformative project to life for today’s residents and generations to come.

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