Walt Whitman Library will undergo a comprehensive renovation to better meet the needs of the neighborhood.
Brooklyn Public Library is collaborating with Belmont Freeman Architects to renovate the branch—including interior and infrastructure upgrades as well as new exterior landscaping—in order to make Walt Whitman Library a modern, friendly and accessible facility. This renovation is possible thanks to a Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant, capital allocations from Council Member Crystal Hudson, Assembly Member Phara Souffrant Forrest, and the City of New York, as well as proceeds from the redevelopment of Brooklyn Heights Library.
Inside, the library's interior public space will be expanded by 40%. Outdated systems will be upgraded, including the heating and cooling system and IT networks. In addition, each of the branch’s three levels will be reconfigured to create a more welcoming environment. Outside, changes to the grounds of the library will include friendly landscaping and a new outdoor program space. ADA upgrades will happen both inside and outside the library.
The renovated interior space will feature:
- A glass-enclosed staircase tower extending from the basement to the mezzanine level
- Twin mezzanine balconies, one for staircase and elevator access and the other furnished as a teen area
- An elevator extended to the mezzanine level for increased ADA accessibility
- A staircase serving the basement, opening to a more generous elevator lobby, which will provide smoother access to the lower level meeting rooms
- An expanded staff work area
- New public restrooms and staff restrooms
The renovated exterior space will feature:
- An outdoor sitting area in front of the building
- An upgraded accessible entrance ramp
- Outdoor reading garden featuring bas-reliefs removed from the old Brooklyn Heights Library
- Staff parking area to double as a flex space for community events
The first step in this renovation was hearing from you: in partnership with Belmont Freeman Architects and Hester Street, BPL engaged the Fort Greene community and Walt Whitman Library patrons on their thoughts on how Walt Whitman Library can better serve the neighborhood in 2022. View the report here.
PROJECT FUNDING
Brooklyn Public Library has secured $14.75 million to fund this project. Sources include the New York City Council and Council Member Crystal Hudson, Assembly Member Phara Souffrant Forrest, the City of New York, New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative, and proceeds from the redevelopment of Brooklyn Heights Library.
INTERIM LIBRARY SERVICES
Walt Whitman Library will temporarily close for this comprehensive renovation. During the construction, library staff will maintain a presence in the community through local partnerships, including hosting library programs around the neighborhood.
FORT GREENE COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
A community engagement process was conducted by Hester Street in coordination with BPL and Belmont Freeman Architects and involved community members and library stakeholders. Throughout Spring and Summer 2022, this team held community workshops, surveys and focus groups. View the final report here.
PROJECT TEAM
Brooklyn Public Library is collaborating with Belmont Freeman Architects, Local Office Landscape and Urban Design, and construction manager Benchmark to renovate Walt Whitman Library.
