Wash and Learn Initiative

The Wash and Learn Initiative Baltimore (WaLi) seeks to transform laundromats in Baltimore into access points for digital learning and community development. The program provides computers, tablets, books, and educational resources.

WaLi Baltimore is a partnership of: Enoch Pratt Free Library, Libraries Without Borders, Robert W. Deutsch Foundation, and Media Democracy Fund. This partnership was inspired by the data and information gathered in the “Digital Access and Equity in Baltimore City” report commissioned in August 2017 by the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation and the Media Democracy Fund.

The Wash and Learn Initiative, alongside The Disconnect Podcast- two projects that have grown out of this initial report and partnership- are part of an effort to raise awareness about the techno-social gap, and create programming that can help increase digital equity and access in Baltimore City.

Programmed Sites

Programmed Sites provide librarian-guided programming 10-hours per week on topics like computer basic, social media skills, G Suite, creating an email account, and more. One-on-one tech help is also available.

• HIPP Laundromat, 3101 Pulaski Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21224

• Laundry City, 3421 Frederick Ave, Baltimore, MD 21229

Independent Learning Locations

Independent Learning Locations provide curated databases and education portals for all ages on computers and laptops.

• Sudsville Laundromat, 3921 Erdman Ave, Baltimore, MD 21213

• Sudsville Laundromat, 7001 Reisterstown Rd, Baltimore, MD 21215

This includes coding games, literacy apps, and bilingual learning experiences on iPads just for children.