Following a 3-month hiatus, the Flatlands Library, located at 2065 Flatbush Ave, celebrated its re-opening on Wednesday, welcoming residents to a brand-new 800 sq. foot meeting room.
During the library's closure, beginning August 3, BPL provided bookmobile services outside the branch while patrons were directed to neighboring branches.
The new space was created in the branch to increase publicly available space by 25 percent, expanding its capacity from seating 16 people to seating up to 65 people and serving as a dedicated children's activity space. The space also has the capacity to double as a conference room equipped with a screen and A/V technology, affording a variety of new public uses including for talks or lectures and other presentations.
Brooklyn's libraries are in the most significant era of rebuilding in recent memory, according to BPL. Over the next five years, across the borough, one third of the libraries' branches will be rebuilt or renovated with projects ranging from small restorations to full-scale renovations.
"We are delighted to be back in Flatlands Library and thank Assemblywoman Weinstein for her commitment and support of this project," said Linda E. Johnson, president and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library. "With this flexible new space, the possibilities for programs are countless and we look forward to welcoming patrons here for years to come."
Assemblywoman Helene Weinstein generously provided funding for the project and joined the library for its reopening. Children from PS 207 presented the assemblywoman with hand drawn thank you notes.
"The Brooklyn Public Library system has always played an important role in our communities, providing a space where people could expand their literary horizons," said Assemblywoman Weinstein. "With these new improvements, the Flatlands Library can now expand its role, becoming a hub for local activities and groups and civic associations needing a place to gather."
