The Queens Library’s Whitestone branch will be shut for a short time to make way for some substantial repairs.
Whitestone Library, located at 151-10 14th Rd., will close to the public on March 17 for approximately two weeks, according to Queens Library spokeswoman Elisabeth de Bourbon.
During this time, interior repairs and abatement of asbestos tiles will be conducted in preparation for a subsequent masonry construction project.
The location will re-open in the first week of April. During the two-week closure, residents can visit the following libraries in neighboring communities:
- Auburndale Library: 25-55 Francis Lewis Blvd.; 718-352-2027
- Bay Terrace Library: 18-36 Bell Blvd.; 718-423-7004
- Poppenhusen Library: 121-23 14th Ave.; 718-359-1102
The forthcoming masonry project will repair water damage and cracks to the masonry exterior of the building. It will continue through July 2018 and cost approximately $170,000.
Some other improvement projects for the site are currently in the pipeline: in last year’s participatory budget vote in District 19, the library was selected to undergo a $100,000 technology upgrade. The project will bring upgrades including computers and smartboards to the site.
In 2016, Assemblyman Edward Braunstein allocated $500,000 to cover the cost of replacing the roof. Additional funding will be required to begin the project, de Bourbon noted, as roof replacement projects typically cost between $900,000 and $1 million.
Queens Library manages nearly one million square feet of library space in 65 locations throughout the borough. There are currently nearly 100 active capital projects being conducted at Queens Library branches.
For more information, visit the Queens Library website.
