Library Rendering by Studio Joseph
Canarsie Library is expanding! This exciting renovation will double the amount of public space in Canarsie Library while creating new areas for children, teens and adults as well as a large meeting room, a maker space, a recording studio and a second-floor outdoor terrace.
The renovated library will feature:
- Double the public space! Increasing from from 4,000 to almost 8,000 square feet
- A light-filled design that features a beautiful children’s reading area (and stroller parking!)
- A flexible community meeting room that can seat up to 49
- A space just for teens
- A new maker space full of state-of-the-art technology and a recording studio for patrons
- All new heating, cooling and electrical infrastructure, water fountains and improved bathrooms
Funding for this project comes from the City of New York, Mayor Eric L. Adams, Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Council Member Mercedes Narcisse.
Frequently Asked Questions
BPL currently expects construction to begin in Spring 2025 and to finish in Summer 2027, though this start date and timeline are subject to change. Canarsie Library will engage the community on the best ways to deliver select library services during construction.
An update on construction timelines and programs during this closure will be provided closer to 2025.
A community engagement process was conducted by Hester Street in coordination with BPL in Spring 2022. Through one-on-one meetings, focus groups, tabling at Bookmobile events, workshops and surveys, we gathered feedback from over 280 people to ensure the library is reflective of the neighborhood’s diverse needs.
Hester Street and BPL also spoke with elected representatives, community boards, schools and community-based organizations to introduce (or reintroduce) the community to Canarsie Library and the upcoming renovation, learn more about their needs, and discuss their vision and ideas for upgrading the branch. Engagement workshops were held in person at the library to meet a diverse group of community members in the space that needed their input. Particular attention was paid to understanding how COVID-19 impacted the Canarsie community and identifying challenges as well as opportunities for the library to better serve its patrons.
View the community engagement report, Redesigning Canarsie Library (pdf.)
On April 2, 2024, BPL held a Community Report Back session. See the presentation here.
Funding for this project comes from the City of New York, Mayor Eric L. Adams, Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Council Member Mercedes Narcisse.
The selected architect is Studio Joseph.
