The new East Flatbush Library. Image Credit: Gregg Richards/DDC).
On June 6, Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) and the NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC) celebrated the re-opening of East Flatbush Library in Brooklyn. The library, which had recently undergone a comprehensive renovation, is located at 9612 Church Avenue and considered a staple of the Remsen Village neighborhood.
The East Flatbush Library has been renovated to include a new fire safety system and building management system, larger main floor space, three meeting rooms, and a large multipurpose room. The building features floor-to-ceiling windows, multiple skylights, and updated lighting, furniture, and technology including a laptop loan locker and self-serve kiosks. The renovations are part of the largest wave of library redevelopment since the Carnegie era, and patrons are invited to view the improvements during one of the library’s several upcoming programs, such as Storytime, Ask A Tech, Teen Gaming, and Kids Create. For more information about the library’s programming, click here.
The renovations to East Flatbush Library have awarded the building a LEED Silver certification, indicating that it scored between 50–59 out of 100 points on the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED point system. This system awards points to buildings for addressing various sustainability issues and signifies a building’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
The building was modernized by architecture firm LevenBetts, and required $11.2 in City funding, including $750,000 from former Council Member Inez Barron. National Grid also provided a Neighborhood Investment Program grant for the new library through their Project C initiative.
DDC Commissioner Thomas Foley stated, “Libraries are centers of learning as well as hubs of community activity, and with new meeting rooms as well as dedicated learning areas for various age groups, East Flatbush Library is now better able to accommodate both.”
President and CEO of BPL Linda E. Johnson stated, “For over 70 years, BPL has had a library here on Church Avenue. Today, we are thrilled to welcome patrons to a modern light-filled space which is sure to serve as inspiration for our neighbors in East Flatbush and the entire borough for generations to come.”
Senator Roxanne J. Persaud stated, “The Public Library system is undergoing substantial renovations, including the Brooklyn Public Library, with modern amenities for every generation. The updated mechanical and building management systems, dedicated Story Time rooms, and self-serve kiosks will entice patrons to visit the library frequently. Our libraries are also the least expensive form of recreation for families. The community welcomes these continued investments in our libraries.”
Source: DDC, Brooklyn Public Library Celebrate Re-Opening of East Flatbush Library, June 6, 2023
By: Dylan Shusterman (Dylan is the CityLaw intern and a New York Law School student, Class of 2025.)