The Queens Public Library (QPL) announced on Tuesday that three of its branches, previously at risk of delayed reopenings due to proposed budget cuts, are set to resume service. This follows the restoration of City funding in the new fiscal year.
QPL President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott provided updates on the Bay Terrace, Broadway and Hillcrest branches. The recently adopted Fiscal Year 2025 budget restores $58.3 million to the city’s library systems, with $16.6 million allocated specifically for QPL. This funding will allow QPL to reinstate seven-day service starting Sunday, July 14, at eligible libraries, continue six-day operations and reopen branches closed for construction.
“The public has been patiently waiting for Bay Terrace, Broadway and Hillcrest to resume service, and we are very pleased that we will finally be able to reopen these branches,” said Walcott. “Now that our funding has been restored, we are working as quickly as possible to fill the positions needed for the three locations. Each branch will require different levels of preparation before they can open their doors again, and our staff are eager to ready them for the public.”
Broadway Library | 40-20 Broadway, Astoria
Broadway Library has undergone improvements on its lower level, including a new computer center, public restrooms, updated meeting rooms and new décor. With construction complete, QPL anticipates reopening the branch in early August after approximately two weeks of final preparations.
Hillcrest Library | 187-05 Union Tpke., Flushing
Hillcrest Library’s upgrades include a new roof and HVAC system. The branch is currently awaiting final inspections, after which it will take around two weeks to prepare for reopening.
Bay Terrace Library | 18-36 Bell Blvd., Bayside
Bay Terrace Library renovations feature a new teen room, a multipurpose community room with audiovisual equipment and an accessible side entrance. Following final inspections, preparations are expected to take about two months, with a projected reopening in the fall.
Queens Public Library is one of the largest and busiest public library systems in the United States, serving the most ethnically and culturally diverse area in the country. Founded in 1896, QPL offers free access to over 5 million books and other materials in 50 languages, as well as technology and digital resources. The Library hosts tens of thousands of educational, cultural and civic programs each year and welcomes millions of visitors across its 66 locations in Queens.
