Thanks to a $13.2 million investment from Brooklyn-based state assemblymembers, 18 library branches will get new roofs, HVAC systems and other building upgrades.
Brooklyn’s state assemblymembers on Wednesday allocated $13.2 million to the Brooklyn Public Library for renovation projects at its aging branches.
New York State Assembly Library Chair Robert Carroll, Brooklyn Delegation Chair Maritza Davila and other members of the Brooklyn delegation announced the investment at a check presentation ceremony at the Central Library in Grand Army Plaza.
The funding will primarily support roof replacements and HVAC upgrades at 18 branches across the borough. This will ensure the library can remain open and safe for patrons as well as increasing energy efficiency and reducing maintenance costs, according to the delegation.
“Libraries are among our most vital and democratic civic institutions and demand our highest level of stewardship,” Carroll said in a statement. “This will allow branch libraries throughout the BPL system to undertake essential capital work.”
Branches scheduled for upgrades include Brighton Beach, Clinton Hill, Coney Island, Cypress Hills, Dekalb, Dyker, Flatbush and Gerritsen Beach. Gravesend, Highlawn, Jamaica Bay, Kensington, Kings Highway, Marcy, McKinley, Mill Basin, Park Slope and Ulmer Park are also scheduled for improvements.
The average age of a library branch in Brooklyn is about 70 years, with 19 buildings over 100-years-old, according to officials. Some branches depend on noisy temporary chillers in the summertime or rely on boilers well beyond their use in wintertime. Persistent roof leaks have caused significant interior damage at some branches, and others need new roofs, HVAC, and fire and safety systems.