Chad Helton brings industry experience and bold vision to support the Pratt’s future growth and service to Baltimore’s communities
Following a nationwide search, the Board of Directors of the Enoch Pratt Free Library announced today the appointment of Chad Helton as the new President & Chief Executive Officer. With more than 15 years of experience in both public and academic libraries, Helton is set to lead the Pratt Library into a new era of innovation, community engagement, and expanded services for Baltimore.
Most recently, Helton provided strategic guidance as a library consultant. Prior to that, he served as Director of Hennepin County Library in Minnesota, where he managed 41 branches, successfully led the system through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and oversaw an annual operating budget of $65 million. Helton’s leadership ensured continuity of services, supported key infrastructure projects, and addressed budgetary needs. He has also held a key leadership role as the Director of Branch Library Services at the Los Angeles Public Library, where he directed over 70 branches and implemented and oversaw the departmental budget of over $114 million. Additionally, he has held roles with the Contra Costa County Library as Deputy County Librarian and the City of Palo Alto Library as Library Services Manager. His academic library experience includes roles at Stanford University, University of California-Davis, North Carolina State University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
“Chad Helton is the right leader for the Enoch Pratt Free Library’s next chapter,” said Christine Espenshade, Chair of the Pratt Library’s Board of Directors. “His deep industry experience and creative approach to addressing infrastructure needs will be invaluable as we work toward a bold future for the Pratt Library. We are confident that his leadership, coupled with a commitment to community, will ensure that the Pratt Library continues to thrive as a cornerstone of Baltimore. Chad’s expertise will help us build on the momentum we’ve already gained, including record-high library cardholders and circulation, as well as securing funding for ongoing infrastructure improvements.”
Helton’s personal journey—from overcoming homelessness to becoming a leader in the library field—demonstrates the transformative power of libraries. He is committed to making libraries a tool for change and empowerment for the communities they serve.
“I do not take this responsibility lightly,” Helton said. “I understand the significance of leading one of the nation’s first free public library systems, and I am deeply honored to take on this role. Libraries are not just places for books—they are vital community resources that promote the greater good. I look forward to expanding the Pratt Library’s services, modernizing our infrastructure, and ensuring that everyone in Baltimore has access to the information and opportunities they need to succeed.”
Helton’s vision for the Pratt Library is to enhance both its physical and digital infrastructure while expanding outreach to all populations. He plans to foster stronger partnerships with local organizations, positioning the library as a hub for learning, connection, and growth that benefits the broader community. Under his leadership, the Pratt Library will continue efforts such as its commitment to social impact programs and the expansion of digital literacy programs to ensure equitable access to technology and resources.
Helton holds a Master of Science degree in Library and Information Studies from Florida State University, a Master of Public Administration from the University of San Francisco, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in African-American Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is also pursuing a Doctor of Education from Vanderbilt University. Over the course of his career, Helton has been an active member of the American Library Association, the Public Library Association, and the Urban Libraries Council, and he is a member of Pi Alpha Alpha, the Global Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration.
“The Board of Directors is eager to support Chad as he leads the organization into a future defined by innovation and service,” Espenshade added. “Under his leadership, the Pratt Library will continue to be a welcoming and essential resource, empowering Baltimore’s residents through free access to critical resources and opportunities. On behalf of the entire Board, I also want to extend our deepest gratitude to Darcell Graham for her exceptional leadership as Interim CEO during this transitional period.”
About the Enoch Pratt Free Library
The Enoch Pratt Free Library is Baltimore’s public library system and the Maryland State Library Resource Center. Founded in 1882 by philanthropist Enoch Pratt, the library’s mission is to empower, enrich, and enhance the quality of life for all through equitable access to information, services, and opportunities. The Pratt Library consists of the Central Library, 21 branches, bookmobiles, the Mobile Job Center, and technology training centers. In 2023, the Pratt Library reached a 13-year high in circulation and saw record numbers of active cardholders, continuing its mission to serve Baltimore’s diverse communities.
