Photos here. (Credit: Gregg Richards)
Brooklyn—Brooklyn Public Library celebrated the re-opening of Ryder Library this week, welcoming patrons back to the new renovated branch for the first time in three years.
“Designed with an eye towards sustainability, this renovation provides a modern space that meets the needs of the neighborhood today and for years to come. I extend my sincere thanks to our partners in government for their support and look forward to seeing everyone back at the branch,” said Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO, Brooklyn Public Library.
During the closure, the Department of Design and Construction replaced the roof and upgraded the HVAC system for the branch.
“Ryder Library now has a new roof as well as modern and efficient HVAC and fire detection systems,” said NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Acting Commissioner Eduardo del Valle. “This renovation will help maintain the structural integrity of the building as well as reduce energy use and the operating costs incurred by Brooklyn Public Library. In the future, library renovation projects such as these will benefit from the use of CM-Build contracting. DDC used CM-Build contracting during the pandemic to build clinics and testing centers in record time, and earlier this year we received permission in Albany to use it with all three of the City’s library systems as well.”
In addition, the Library completed a full interior renovation, adding new shelving and furniture and reorganizing the space to create a tech room and dedicated areas for teens and for children. Solar panels and new windows were installed and restrooms were renovated.
“We believe in access for all to public libraries—to books and the opportunities they offer and the learning they inspire. And we believe in the power of architecture to help realize the value of such critical places. Working with the Brooklyn Public Library and the Ryder Branch team has given us the opportunity to be part of that mission–-to bring a vital update to an essential neighborhood resource,” said Jennifer Sage and Peter Coombe, Sage and Coombe Architects. “We have worked to imagine a space that serves young children, teens and adults. We also know that making a comfortable and enjoyable place for the library staff to work and meet is an essential part of any effective civic place. Together, patrons and staff will take our work and make it their own, bring animation and humor, whispers and perhaps even a few laughs to the Ryder Branch reimagined.”
Ryder Library has served the Bensonhurst community and surrounding neighborhoods for more than 50 years. During the closure, the bookmobile visited the community and librarians hosted events around the neighborhood.
The newly renovated branch will be open on Sundays starting in 2026.
“Libraries are free, welcoming spaces where people of all ages can learn, connect, and grow. I’m grateful that the Brooklyn Public Library is investing hard-fought funding, which I strongly advocated for at both the state and city levels, into our local libraries,” said Council Member Simcha Felder. “I’m thrilled to see the Ryder Library reopen, upgraded and ready to serve our community in a beautiful, comfortable space for years to come.”
“Reopening the Ryder Avenue Library is a tremendous boost for our neighborhood. This branch has given students a place to study, parents a place to find resources, and neighbors a place to connect and grow. I’m grateful to see it refreshed and ready to welcome back the families who depend on it," said New York State Senator Sam Sutton.
“Today we reopen more than a building—we reopen a gateway to knowledge and opportunity,” said Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein. “This library stands as a promise that learning and imagination are always within reach. Thank you to the Brooklyn Public Library for completing this renovation. May this space continue to strengthen our community for generations to come.”
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.