The Brooklyn Public Library’s Canarsie Branch was awarded $3.5 million in state aid for a major renovation.
The funds, allocated through the FY2023-2024 State Budget, will help replace the outdated building that no longer meets community needs or complies with modern energy standards, according to a press release from state Senator Roxane J. Persaud.
"We are taking a significant step toward revitalizing our community’s heartbeat—the library," said Persaud. "With $3.5 million in state aid, Brooklyn Public Library will not only modernize its facilities but also enhance accessibility and resources for all New Yorkers. This investment is a commitment to ensuring our libraries remain vibrant spaces for learning, innovation, and connection."
The funding is part of $34 million in capital provided for public library construction and broadband infrastructure projects across New York. Canarsie’s renovation is a crucial part of a statewide effort to upgrade libraries. A recent survey revealed a $1.75 billion need for public library renovations, with over half of New York’s 1,000 libraries more than 60 years old.
Many public libraries face challenges like outdated electrical wiring, energy inefficiency, and lack of accessibility for patrons with disabilities. Insufficient space to house collections and provide meeting areas also remains a widespread issue.
