BROOKLYN—The Friends of Cortelyou Library, BPL President Linda E. Johnson and Assemblyman Robert Carroll—an enthusiastic supporter of libraries across the borough—welcomed patrons back to Cortelyou Library today after a brief closure to upgrade the branch.
“As Albert Einstein said, ‘The only thing that you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library.’ And now, as the renovated and enhanced Cortelyou Road Library reopens, it can resume its extraordinarily vital role in the heart of one of the country’s most diverse communities. I am proud of the role New York State played in funding this renovation in partnership with the Brooklyn Public Library, Friends of Cortelyou Library and the Prospect Park South and Ditmas Park neighborhoods,” said Assemblymember Robert Carroll.
Patrons returning to the library will find a completely refreshed library with an improved layout, including a new teen space and a brighter children’s section. All of the shelving and main floor furniture have been replaced, with the aim of making the library feel more open and welcoming. Additional outlets and energy-efficient lighting have also been added.
The Friends of Cortelyou Library, a volunteer group, were instrumental in the library’s renovation process, raising over $40,000 through a community fundraising drive. This supplements a $250,000 grant from New York State for the improvement of the branch.
“The Friends of Cortelyou Library are thrilled that the Refresh Cortelyou Library project is now a reality. It is something that we have been working towards for years and was truly a community effort. We would like to thank all of our neighbors and local businesses who have been supporting Cortelyou Library over the years at our various fundraising events. It is an exciting day for the library and we look forward to welcoming our neighbors in the refreshed and updated space,” said Elisabeth Parker, a member of the Friends group.
Cortelyou Library is regularly among the busiest branches in the borough. Nearly 40 years old, the Library is easily recognized in the neighborhood by the mural of bright blue triangles wrapped around the exterior.
“At Brooklyn Public Library, we believe everyone, in every neighborhood, should have access to a welcoming and inspiring public space,” said Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library. “We are immensely grateful to Assemblymember Robert Carroll and the Friends of Cortelyou Library for helping us create a bright and beautiful library for the readers of every generation, background, and intellectual inclination.”
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. As a leader in developing modern 21st-century libraries, we provide resources to support personal advancement, foster civic literacy, and strengthen the fabric of community among the more than 2.7 million individuals who call Brooklyn home. 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.