By Nathan Duke
The Queens Library at Windsor Park will close Feb. 19 for a renovation project that is expected to wrap up later this fall, but in the meantime the library will offer limited services two times per week through its book bus.
The library, at 79-50 Bell Blvd. in Oakland Gardens, will undergo a $2.8 million upgrade that includes the creation of a radio-frequency identification system that will enable visitors to check out materials more quickly.
In addition, the renovation will feature a bright new decor for the building as well as new air-conditioning systems, improved lighting fixtures, new desktop finishes and interior walls, said Joanne King, associate director of communications for the library.
The building will also get new laptop work areas with power outlets and unlimited Wi-Fi, a new elevator, additional computers and a new area for teenagers. The project is being funded by Mayor Michael Bloomberg and state Assemblyman-elect David Weprin.
The library will close at the end of the business day Feb. 19. The renovation is expected to be completed in the fall and the building will reopen shortly thereafter.
Meanwhile, visitors will be able to take out books Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. via the library’s book bus. As of March 3, the bus will pull up adjacent to the library.
The Queens Library has several other sites in the vicinity of the Oakland Gardens center, including Bellerose’s library at 250-06 Hillside Ave., Fresh Meadows’ site at 193-20 Horace Harding Expwy. and Hillcrest’s center at 187-05 Union Tnpk.
For more information, visit the Queens Library’s Web site at queenslibrary.org.
Reach reporter Nathan Duke by e-mail at nduke@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4566.
