The New York Public Library’s Woodstock branch is set to undergo a $10 million improvement project that will double programming space, increase the number of computers, expand the children’s area, and create a new young adult reading room.
The interior renovation of the 100-year-old Bronx branch – located at 761 East 160th Street by Prospect Avenue– will begin on September 1, and will be conducted by the New York City Department of Design and Construction. The branch will close to the public on August 29, and is expected to reopen in late 2016.
While the Library is closed, patrons can use one of three nearby branches, including:
- Morrisania Library at 610 East 169th Street in the Bronx
- Melrose Library at 910 Morris Avenue in the Bronx
- Hunt’s Point Library at 877 Southern Boulevard in the Bronx
The Woodstock Library is one of the city’s original Carnegie libraries, opened in 1914 and designed by McKim, Mead & White. The important renovation – designed by Rice + Lipka Architects – will revamp the building’s public spaces and vastly improve the library’s functionality.
The new Woodstock Library will have . . .
- An expanded children’s center with story hour area
- A new young adult space with lounge seating
- More computers – 18 stations for children and 28 for young adults and adults
- Technology upgrades, including building-wide wi-fi capabilities
- Increased programming space for community needs, such as ESOL classes
- A new elevator and ADA accessibility
- New furniture and more restrooms
- An improved entranceway and central staircase
- New HVAC and security equipment
- And more
Funding for this renovation was generously provided by Mayor Bill de Blasio, Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, Council Member Maria del Carmen Arroyo and the New York State Education Department.
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