Senator Gounardes Announces $230,000 in New Funding for Renovation of Carroll Gardens Library

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: OCTOBER 22, 2024

View photos here (credit: Gregg Richards)

Brooklyn, NY — New York State Senator Andrew Gounardes announced $230,000 in new funding today to expand the scope of the current renovation project at the Brooklyn Public Library’s Carroll Gardens branch. The additional funding supports upgrades requested by the community, including modernizing the elevator, and ensures the library will remain a modern, accessible facility as it celebrates its 120th anniversary in 2025.

“This library is a jewel of Carroll Gardens that’s been serving our community for over a century,” said State Senator Andrew Gounardes. “After so many years of service, it’s not surprising the library needs some TLC. I’m proud to provide $230,000 in new funding that builds upon the library’s renovation by ensuring it includes a modern elevator so all Brooklynites can access this historic building. With this investment, we ensure the library continues to serve Carroll Gardens neighbors for generations to come.”

During a hard-hat tour of the branch, which is currently under construction, Brooklyn Public Library President and CEO Linda E. Johnson and the Friends of Carroll Gardens Library recognized the Senator for his ongoing and enthusiastic support of libraries across his Brooklyn district.

“Carroll Gardens Library is more than a century old and modernizing it for a new generation is truly a labor of love. Thank you to the Friends group and State Senator Andrew Gounardes for their enthusiastic support,” Johnson said. “With Senator Gounardes’ funding, Carroll Gardens Library will become a more accessible and welcoming space for everyone to enjoy for another 120 years. 

“Our Library is very important to our community,” said Ginger Gaines, President of the Friends of Carroll Gardens Library. “We are very grateful to Brooklyn Public Library and Senator Gounardes for listening to our requests and finding the funding to make these long-needed repairs.”

With this new funding, Carroll Gardens Library can avoid a second lengthy closure. The new projects, which also include bathroom upgrades and a water fountain, will begin after the current phase of work. The current phase, managed by the NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC), includes a new heating and cooling system, historically appropriate lighting, and a teen center. The DDC phase of construction is expected to be completed in Summer 2025 and the branch is expected to open later in the year.

Funding for the current phase of construction includes allocations from Council District 39 (including a participatory budgeting grant) as well as Mayoral and City Council capital funds.

Media Contact:

Billy Richling

Communications Director

State Senator Andrew Gounardes

billy@senatorgounardes.nyc

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