Q&A with: Annie Malone

Deputy Director, Village Learning Place

September 2026

Located just blocks from The Study, Village Learning Place is a vital part of Baltimore’s literary and community landscape, offering far more than books and a place to read. Through its library, programs, and community-centered approach, the independent library creates opportunities for learning, connection, and discovery for people of all ages. 

In honor of National Literacy Month, we connected with Annie Malone, VLP’s Deputy Director, to learn more about her role, what makes Village Learning Place such a special part of the community, and how the library continues to keep our neighborhood engaged in reading year-round.

Tell us about your role at Village Learning Place. What drew you to the organization, and what do you enjoy most about Village Learning Place?

As Deputy Director at Village Learning Place, I lead our out-of-school time staff delivering after school and summer programs. I've been with VLP since 2015, starting as a teacher and working my way up through the organization to my current role. Throughout my time here, restorative practices have been at the center of my work, shaping programs and a staff culture built on connection and community.

I've been at VLP for over a decade! What initially drew me to the organization was the opportunity to work with students in our out-of-school time program, LINK (Let’s Invest in Neighborhood Kids). What I enjoy most is that VLP is a community space, where neighbors and community members help shape programs that meet the needs of the people we serve.

Baltimore is known as "The City That Reads." What does that phrase mean to you, and what does a city that truly embraces reading and lifelong learning look like?

To me, “The City That Reads” means a city where curiosity is celebrated and learning happens everywhere. A city that truly embraces reading and lifelong learning is a community where people gather, ask questions, and build meaningful relationships. It’s a place where neighbors work together to solve problems, celebrate successes, and continue learning from one another throughout their lives.

Village Learning Place has grown into not just a library, but a true community hub. How do those two roles work together to support your mission in Charles Village, and what do initiatives like our Literacy Month collaboration and holiday book drive mean to the organization?

Village Learning Place provides access to learning, resources, and opportunities for people of all ages. These roles work together to create a welcoming space where neighbors can connect, learn, and build a stronger community. VLP and The Study at Johns Hopkins are both, in our own ways, in the business of belonging. This partnership deepens our roots in this community and helps more Baltimore City families find their way to us, and that kind of connection is what allows this work to last.

For those who are inspired by your work, how can they stay connected with Village Learning Place and support literacy and community-building throughout the year?

People can stay connected by visiting our library, getting a library card, and joining us for programs and events throughout the year. Stay informed by following Village Learning Place on our social media accounts to support our work and be part of our community.

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