More room is coming to the Laurelton and Rosedale library branches and officials’ visions for the project is growing.
Councilmember Donovan Richards allocated $3 million for the two Queens Library reading spots to begin expansion and upgrade projects.
The Laurelton branch, currently 8,000 square feet, will double to 16,000 with the addition of a second floor.
“We’re really excited about that,” said Dave Wang, the Laurelton manager. “The community has a very high expectation and standard for the library. A lot of our residents depend on it.”
Wang hopes the additional space will allow the branch to offer more classes to the neighborhood; something that he said has been in demand.
“In Laurelton, there’s no community center. Everyone depends on the library,” he said.
Richards met with community members and library officials last week to discuss the visions for their respective branches.
“He’s been so supportive from the get-go,” said Joanne King of the Queens Library. “It’s really a wonderful thing for us to see.”
Roughly $1.7 million of Richards’ funds will get the Laurelton expansion off the ground, but $9.8 million is still needed for completion, according to library officials.
Rosedale will receive $1 million, but will still need $6.3 million, King said. The branch’s square footage will expand from 6,000 to 9,400.
Branch officials were able to share their hopes for teen and children spaces at last week’s meeting.
“This is only the beginning, but it’s a very big help,” Wang said.
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