Cortelyou Library

Planning for Cortelyou Library began in 1969, but it was not until 1983, after years of patience and hard work by Flatbush residents, that construction was completed and the branch opened. In 2021, the Friends of Cortelyou Library raised over $40,000 to enhance the branch with a revised layout, new reading tables and chairs, new furniture in the children’s area and a teen area. This work happened alongside a New York State-funded project to replace the main room’s shelves, lighting and flooring. 

Cortelyou has a distinctive, welcoming entry, as well as a mural of bright blue triangles that wrap around the building. Cortelyou Library celebrates its community's creativity and professionalism by showcasing Pakistani music, Bengali fiction, Russian poetry and West Indian novels.

Friends of Cortelyou Library

Friends of Cortelyou Library is a group of organized volunteers who help our neighborhood library through advocacy, fundraising and promotion. If you are interested in becoming a Friend of Cortelyou Library, ask a staff member for details or email friends@bklynlibrary.org for more information.