The East Flatbush Library is officially open following a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Brooklyn Public Library last Wednesday.
“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” said Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO, Brooklyn Public Library.
“I extend my thanks to LevenBetts architectural studio and our partners at DDC; and to Council Member Charles Barron and Inez Barron for their ongoing support of libraries across the borough.”
The New York City’s Department of Design and Construction has renovated the East Flatbush Library which now boasts a larger main floor space for patrons, as well as an updated façade, with floor-to-ceiling windows and multiple skylights.
“The reopening of the East Flatbush branch is a triumph for the Brooklyn Public Library system and an immense benefit to the neighborhood,” said Councilmember Chi Ossé, chair of the Committee on Cultural Affairs, Libraries and International Intergroup Relations.
“The improved space will be a sanctuary for Brooklynites seeking books, programming, and even an escape from hot summer days. It lives up to the gold standard our borough deserves and I commend all individuals whose hard work made this possible.”
The library now has separate spaces for adults, teens and toddlers, including a dedicated storytime room. Patrons can also take advantage of three meeting rooms and a large multipurpose room. This will be used for upcoming programming including Storytime, Ask A Tech, Teen Gaming, and Kids Create.
“Our public libraries provide essential services that go beyond free access to literature, and we have to nurture these spaces, updating them so they’re welcoming, modern, and comfortable for everyone,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, whose office will host constituent office hours inside the East Flatbush Library the last Monday of every month.
“My office is looking forward to enjoying the new changes to the East Flatbush Public Library branch and spending time with the community during our monthly Constituent Services table.”
