Brownsville Library will soon undergo a comprehensive renovation to protect and significantly expand this vital public space.
For more than 115 years, Brownsville Library has been at the heart of the neighborhood—and now will receive a large-scale renovation for its next century of service. The renovation significantly increases public space in Brownsville Library while modernizing every corner of the building, from updated heating, cooling, and safety systems to fully ADA-compliant restrooms. Inside, new walls, floors, ceilings, and shelves will create larger, brighter, more welcoming spaces, including dedicated areas for children, teens, and adults. Outside, the historic façade will be beautifully restored, with new environmentally friendly landscaping, seating, and gathering areas for neighbors to enjoy.
Highlights of the renovation include:
- An increase of almost 70% in more public space
- Dedicated program and collection areas for children, teens, and adults
- A new half-floor added to the existing roof, featuring a 75-person community room with views of a green roof
- New, accessible restrooms
- A recording studio
- Smaller meeting rooms
- Public computers and laptop lockers
The building’s exterior will be beautifully restored, and new outdoor seating and gathering areas will create a welcoming space for the community.
Construction on the Brownsville Library restoration project is anticipated to last for approximately three years.
Brownsville Library’s restoration project will soon enter the construction phase, which is expected to last three years.
Library programs will be hosted at neighborhood organizations.
Funding for the Brownsville Library renovation is provided by the Mayor of New York City, the New York City Council and the Brooklyn Borough President.
Yes. We partnered with the Brownsville community in a variety of ways, including:
- Community events to get feedback and ideas on the library’s design and renovation
- Targeted activities with specific patron groups (i.e. teenage patrons)
- Report-back sessions to share our findings
- Community board presentations
NYC’s Department of Design and Construction (DDC) will manage this project and LTL Architects is leading the design team for this renovation.
Brownsville Library has served patrons for more than 115 years. An original Carnegie branch, the elegant, 9,600-square-foot building is constructed of elaborate brickwork, limestone trim and a columned portico. The branch suffered a fire in 1922 and went through two major rehabilitations from 1960-63 and 1986-89. Brownsville Library’s roof was replaced in 2012.
