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Flatbush’s Cortelyou Library Reopens With New Teen Space, Fresh and Bright Children’s Area

The 38-year-old library was closed for six-months for the Refresh Cortelyou Library renovation project
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Cortelyou Library reopened Monday. Photo: Jack Cavicchi (MAC BPL).

After a six-month closure, Flatbush's Cortelyou Library has reopened with an all new look — including a new space for teens and a brighter, more inviting children's section.

The library was officially opened on Monday by Brooklyn Public Library President Linda E. Johnson and Assemblymember Robert Carroll, who cut the ribbon on the 38-year-old branch.

While the exterior of the library remains the same, the interior has undergone a more than $250,000 remodeling. All of the shelving and main floor furniture have been replaced, with the aim of making the library feel more open and welcoming, and outlets and energy-efficient lighting have been added.  

The Friends of Cortelyou Library, a volunteer group, were instrumental in the library's renovation process, raising over $40,000 through a community fundraising drive. This supplements a $250,000 grant from New York State for the improvement of the branch, which is regularly among the borough's busiest.

Elisabeth Parker, a member of the Friends group, said the group was thrilled the project was now a reality.

"It is something that we have been working towards for years and was truly a community effort," she said.

"We would like to thank all of our neighbors and local businesses who have been supporting Cortelyou Library over the years at our various fundraising events. It is an exciting day for the library and we look forward to welcoming our neighbors in the refreshed and updated space."

Assemblymember Robert C. Carroll added that the branch could now resume its "extraordinarily vital role in the heart of one of the country's most diverse communities." 

Linda E. Johnson, president and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library, said every neighborhood should have access to a welcoming and inspiring public space and her team at BPL was "immensely grateful to Assembly Member Robert Carroll and the Friends of Cortelyou Library for helping us create a bright and beautiful library for the readers of every generation, background, and intellectual inclination."




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