Brooklyn Public Library Re-Opens Fort Hamilton Branch 3/28

The Fort Hamilton Library, located at 9424 Fourth Avenue, will reopen to the public on March 28th. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on April 11th with local elected officials to commemorate the newly renovated library.

Closed since March 2008, Fort Hamilton received extensive renovations to restore historic details, improve the library's interior and expand pubic space for library customers. The renovation also included technology improvements such as Self Check and more computer terminals to enhance library service for customers.

"We are thrilled the Fort Hamilton renovations successfully integrated traditional library spaces with community meeting rooms and new technology," said Linda E. Johnson, Interim Executive Director. "The project includes an updated collection, additional computers and new self checkout stations, which leave librarians more time to assist our patrons. These improvements will enhance the library services BPL can and should be offering in neighborhoods such as Fort Hamilton."

The renovation would not have been possible without the full support of City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, Borough President Marty Markowitz, Councilman Vincent Gentile, the City of New York and the people of the Fort Hamilton community.

In addition to the complete interior renovation, including new lighting, ceiling and flooring, public space was increased and dedicated meeting rooms were built for library customers. Technology upgrades to the branch include self-check machines that allow users to borrow and return books quickly; new computers and public access Wi-Fi.

Service hours for Fort Hamilton will be:
Monday 10 AM - 6 PM, Tuesday 1 PM - 8 PM, Wednesday 1 PM - 6 PM, Thursday 1 PM- 8 PM, Friday 10 AM - 6 PM
Renovation Detail

Complete interior rehabilitation, including upgrades to electrical, HVAC, lighting and plumbing systems.
Historically accurate details and finishes in entry vestibule, painting and décor
Expansion of public space from approximately 3300 to 5000 square feet, which includes new meeting rooms and dedicated spaces for adults, teens and children
A new children's reading room for the "First Five Years," with low shelving, colorful children's furniture, and two preschool computers equipped with software dedicated to the youngest readers and their parents/guardians.
Equipment and technology enhancements, including:
Self Check Machines
8 new computers for Adults/Teens
8 new computers for Children
Wireless Public Internet Access
ADA compliant improvements that include accessible doors and restrooms

Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) is an independent library system for the 2.5 million residents of Brooklyn. It is the fifth largest library system in the United States with 60 neighborhood libraries. BPL offers free programs and services for all ages and stages of life, including a huge selection of books in more than 30 languages, author talks, job search help, literacy programs, public computers and the largest WiFi network in the borough. BPL's eResources, such as eBooks and eVideos, as well as catalog information, are available to customers 24 hours a day at our website: www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org.