New York State Senator Andrew Gounardes on Tuesday raised $230,000 in new funding toward the ongoing renovation of the Brooklyn Public Library’s Carroll Gardens branch.
The funding will support key community-requested upgrades, including a modernized elevator ahead of its 120th anniversary next year, according to a press release.
“This library is a jewel of Carroll Gardens that’s been serving our community for over a century,” said Gounardes. “After so many years, it’s not surprising the library needs some TLC. This new funding ensures that all Brooklynites can access this historic building for generations to come.”
Gounardes announced the funding during a hard-hat tour of the library, which is currently under construction. Brooklyn Public Library President Linda E. Johnson and the Friends of Carroll Gardens Library joined Gounardes in celebrating his continued support for libraries throughout his district.
“Modernizing a 100-year-old building is truly a labor of love,” said Johnson. “Thanks to Senator Gounardes’ funding, the library will become a more accessible and welcoming space for everyone to enjoy for another 120 years.”
The new funding will allow the library to begin additional projects, including bathroom upgrades and a water fountain, once the current phase of construction is completed. The ongoing renovations, led by the NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC), include a new heating and cooling system, historically appropriate lighting and a teen center. The DDC phase is expected to be completed by the summer of 2025, with the library scheduled to reopen later that year.
“Our library is very important to our community, and we’re grateful to Senator Gounardes and Brooklyn Public Library for listening to our requests and finding the funding to make these long-needed repairs,” said Ginger Gaines, president of the Friends of Carroll Gardens Library.
The current phase of construction is funded by allocations from Council District 39, including a participatory budgeting grant, as well as capital funds allocated from the mayor and City Council.
