By Adam Pincus
The library reopened to customers Nov. 7 after being closed for several weeks for the rehabilitation, but last weekend they officially celebrated the new high-tech check-out system, fresh paint, upgraded computers and other changes to the building.The drum band from St. David's Episcopal Church, Praises in Steel, entertained the approximately 50 people who attended the celebration.Venerable political figures from the neighborhood, including former City Councilman Archie Spigner, dropped by for the reopening. “I remember when this place was a vacant lot,” he said.Current elected officials also attended, including City Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) and Assemblywoman Barbara Clark (D-Queens Village).Clark, who serves on the Library Committee in Albany, said “libraries are a critical part of education.”Veteran police officer Wendell Kornegay attended the event by chance.”A library is a great source of information, a bank where you can come to expand your mind,” the St. Albans resident said.The library has 10 new computers; a self-service book check-out system; and new books and CDs chosen according to a survey of the branch's needs, Community Library Manager Diane Irving said.She said she expected the library to see more users in February after the ceremony.”I think people were not aware it had reopened,” she said, adding, “February it is heavily used. It is Black History Month.”Reach reporter Adam Pincus by e-mail at news@timesledger.com or by phone at 718-229-0300, Ext. 154.
