Brooklyn, NY—Council Member Alan Maisel joined Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) today to celebrate the re-opening of Mill Basin Library. A new HVAC system was installed and the branch was refurbished with new paint and furniture.
"We are thrilled to return to Mill Basin Library,” said Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library. “With a refreshment and new HVAC system, our patrons now have a bright modern space to meet, study and learn. We thank Councilman Alan Maisel and City of New York for supporting this project.”
Children from PS 236 presented the librarians and Councilman Alan Maisel with thank you notes during the re-opening ceremony.
“I am happy that Mill Basin Library’s repairs are complete and the branch is ready to reopen,” said Councilman Alan Maisel. “Libraries provide important services to the community and its absence was felt.”
The New York City Department of Design and Construction oversaw and managed the replacement of the HVAC system.
“The new HVAC system will provide patrons a more comfortable experience and greatly improve the condition of the library, while a new fire alarm system improves safety for all users,” said DDC Acting Commissioner Ana Barrio. “We are proud to be part of re-opening the Mill Basin branch with our partners in government and the community.”
While the branch was closed for the replacement of the HVAC system, BPL refreshed and modernized the branch with paint, new tables, chairs and shelving, enhanced lighting, and signage, additional computers and a modern children’s area with new furniture.
During the closure, BPL provided bookmobile services outside the branch and patrons were welcomed at three nearby branches.
Brooklyn Public Library is committed to updating aging infrastructure system-wide, including Mill Basin Library, and in closing a $240 million capital needs gap. Over a third of the libraries in the BPL system are either in process of or slated for rebuilding and revitalizing capital improvements.