Brooklyn—Brooklyn Public Library celebrated the re-opening of Leonard Library on Tuesday. This first stage renovation project will ensure the Library will be a safe and welcoming space for a new generation; Leonard Library has served the Williamsburgh neighborhood for nearly 120 years, opening in 1908.
“Leonard Library has served the Williamsburg community for nearly 120 years, adapting to the neighborhood’s changing needs,” said Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO, Brooklyn Public Library. “Protecting stories from all perspectives has always been the mission of a public library but has rarely been more important than at this time in our nation’s history. Upgrading Leonard helps us to preserve this beautiful Carnegie Library and the stories it houses for another generation.”
The Department of Design and Construction restored the branch’s laylight and oversaw the construction of a new roof and installation of modern energy-efficient HVAC system to ensure the building will stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
“Thanks to $4.8 million in upgrades completed by DDC, Leonard Library now has an advanced building management system, updated fire safety system, and an energy-efficient heating and cooling system to keep readers comfortable,” said First Deputy Commissioner Eric Macfarlane. “Roof work and architectural improvements were also made. This historic building is almost 117-years-old, and we made sure renovations were done properly and with care for historic accuracy and preservation.”
In addition, the building’s interior was painted and new energy-efficient lights, ceiling tiles and stair treads were installed. Interior doors were replaced to improve visibility and safety.
Funding for the project was generously provided by New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, and Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez.
Public libraries are cornerstones of strong, thriving neighborhoods, and the Leonard Library has been serving as a vital community hub for more than a century. This renovation ensures that future generations will have a safe, welcoming, and modern space to learn, explore, and connect,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Workforce and Economic Development Adolfo Carrión. “The Adams administration is proud to support this important investment in Williamsburg’s future.”
“Anyone who grew up in Williamsburg knows and loves Leonard Library. It’s a community space that embodies the spirit of our borough; even during its closure, Brooklyn Public Library ensured that its patrons weren’t left without access to books and resources,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “It was an honor to invest in this beloved Brooklyn institution during my time as a Council Member. I’m grateful for the library’s decades of service to our community and excited to celebrate this next chapter in its history.”
“Leonard Library is a cherished part of our community’s fabric, and its revitalization is a powerful reminder of what public investment in neighborhood institutions can do. I am also proud to be championing the next phase of improvements, long-overdue accessibility upgrades that will ensure every neighbor—regardless of ability—can access and enjoy this space. I’m committed to seeing this work through, and to making sure Leonard Library continues to serve Williamsburg for generations to come,” said Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez.
In addition, Assemblymember Gallagher is providing funding for programs at the branch.
"I'm thrilled that this library is re-opening and has been updated to better serve our constituents. Public libraries are some of my favorite public institutions. Whether you need a book, a meeting space, or a free way to access the internet, the library is there to serve you. This investment to update our beloved library is an example of what can happen when government works to improve public goods for people," said Assemblymember Emily Gallagher.
“I am so thrilled with the re-opening of Leonard Library today. The new renovations will help ensure the library continues to be a welcoming place for the next generation of New Yorkers in Williamsburg. I am also incredibly grateful for the work of the local electeds that made this possible.” said State Senator Julia Salazar.
The NYC Department for Citywide Administrative Services Energy Management generously provided funding to further enhance the building's efficiency goals.
"The Brooklyn Public Library is an iconic New York City institution, and we are proud to support its continued advancement through energy efficiency projects like this one here at Leonard Library," said DCAS Commissioner Louis A. Molina. "As we work to reduce this city's carbon footprint, upgrades and renovations are a key tool in our toolbox. Thanks to this renovation, the library has moved one step closer to a greener tomorrow."
While the building was undergoing renovations, Nellie, the nickname of a book cart designed and constructed by Librarian Lauren Comito, made its way around the neighborhood, allowing patrons to stay connected with the Library. The cart holds 100 books and was generously hosted by Talea Beer, HereBK, St. Nick’s Alliance, Cooper Houses Tenant Association, A and C Super, Friends of Cooper Park, and the North Brooklyn Open Streets Coalition.
Leonard Library is the iconic library visited by Francie in Betty Smith’s beloved book A Tree Grows in Brooklyn and is designated a literary landmark.
About Brooklyn Public Library
Brooklyn Public Library is one of the nation’s largest library systems and among New York City’s most democratic institutions. Providing innovative library service for over 125 years, we support personal advancement, foster civic literacy, and strengthen the fabric of community among the more than 2.6 million individuals who call Brooklyn home. We are a global leader in the fight for the freedom to read through our Books Unbanned initiative, offering teens across the US access to the library’s online catalog. We provide nearly 65,000 free programs a year with writers, thinkers, artists, and educators—from around the corner and around the world. And we give patrons millions of opportunities to enjoy one of life’s greatest satisfactions: the joy of a good book.