Groundbreaking marks start of massive $17.3M transformation for Arverne Library in the Rockaways

The Queens Public Library (QPL) branch in Arverne, is set to undergo a massive renovation.

QPL President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott and Department of Design and Construction Commissioner (DDC) Thomas Foley joined library staff and local elected officials on Friday, Dec 20, to break ground on the modernization project.

The $17.3 million project, which is expected to be completed in the spring of 2027, will expand and modernize Arverne Library, located at 312 Beach 54 St.

An artist’s rendering of the 4,600-square-foot addition (right) to Arverne Library (left). The building will be expanded into an adjacent yard owned by Queens Public Library. [Rice+Lipka] Photo courtesy of QPL

The DDC is managing the project, which will include a new one-story, 4,600-square-foot annex built in a vacant yard owned by the QPL next to the 5,400-square-foot library. The annex will include a large multipurpose room, community room, library staff and utilities sections, and ADA-compliant bathrooms. It will be built with environmental sustainability in mind, including solar panels and skylights that will bring natural light into the building.

The expansion will be elevated to contain flood vents to protect against future catastrophic weather conditions such as storms and flooding. New pavers will also be installed on the sidewalks around the library. In 2012, the Averne Library sustained significant water damage due to SuperStorm Sandy flooding, prompting the library’s closure and a two-year gut renovation.

An artist’s rendering of the interior of the Arverne Library expansion. The project includes new space plus resiliency and sustainability features. [Rice+Lipka]Photo courtesy of QPL

Manhattan-based design first Rice+Lipka Architects completed the design of the annex. Rice+Lipka Architects has designed several projects as part of the DDC’s Design and Construction Excellence Program, which pre-qualifies design firms to design public building projects.

Local artist Justin Valdez will also create drawings and murals entitled” The Feeling is Mutual” for the project. Inspired by his experience of life and people in Rockaways, Valdez’s art will be installed on glass doors and dividers throughout the building and in all of the library’s bathrooms.

Local elected officials reacted to the news of the expansion.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said that the renovation of the Arverne Library symbolizes how quickly Arvene is growing.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards. Photo courtesy of QPL

“Few communities in New York City are growing faster and being invested in more than Arverne. But behind every strong neighborhood is a strong library, and that’s exactly what we’re delivering with the Arverne branch’s brand new, 4,600-square-foot addition,” said Richards in a statement. He added that he is proud to have allocated nearly $3.4 million towards the critical project.

Sen. James Sanders added that he was thrilled to see the expansion of the library take shape.

“Libraries are more than just buildings; they are gateways to knowledge, opportunity, and community growth. This project is an investment in the future of the Rockaways, ensuring our residents have access to a state-of-the-art facility that will serve generations to come.”

Sanders presides over District 10, which includes the neighborhoods of South Jamaica, Rochdale Village, Rosedale, Richmond Hill, South Ozone Park, Springfield Gardens, and most of the Rockaway.

Assembly Member Khaleel Anderson (District-31) shared similar sentiments. Anderson said that libraries are the backbone of the community due to their multi-purpose functions, such as cooling centers and safe spaces for youth, which go beyond access to books and resources.

“The Arvene Branch was my childhood library, and I am excited to see what it will be like after the recent successful reopening of the Far Rockaway Branch,” Anderson said.

Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers, who also presides over parts of the Rockaways, said that the groundbreaking signifies a significant milestone for Southeast Queens. Brooks-Powers praised libraries for being the hearts of communities, including spaces for education, connection, and growth for community members.

Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers. Photo courtesy of QPL

“I am proud to support this project, which reflects the City’s commitment to enhancing public spaces and meeting the evolving needs of our neighborhoods. I commend Queens Public Library, President Dennis Walcott, and all partners involved for their dedication to this important initiative,” she said in a statement.