No, Brooklyn Public Library Isn't Selling Off Its Books

PARK SLOPE, BROOKLYN — Rumors circulated this week that the Brooklyn Public Library was planning to take its esteemed arts and music collection out of circulation at its flagship central branch, perhaps even selling off books.

Residents took to Facebook to lament the news, with some saying "what a shame," and "awful news."

Turns out, the rumor couldn't be further from the truth.

Spokesperson for the Brooklyn Public Library Fritzl Bodenheimer told Patch that the only thing that's happening to the music and arts location is that it's getting a newer — and better — home.

"The Library is undergoing a major renovation project," she wrote to Patch, "as part of the renovation, the art and music collection will move to the second floor. However, no items will be sold!!"

Starting in April 2018, the main branch began a massive $60 million renovation, and part of that is reconfiguring how collections and administrative offices are arraigned in the massive complex.

"Over the course of the entire project, we will maximize the space available to the public and consolidate staff space," Bodenheimer told Patch, "in the next phase, we look forward to expanding spaces for both teens and adult learners; and to restoring and renovating the Library’s collection areas to increase functionality and provide patrons with more inviting spaces to read, work and learn."

The first phase, completed in May of 2021, converted administrative space to public use and unveiled five new public areas: the Major Owens Welcome Center, New and Noteworthy, Civic Commons, Business and Career Center, and a restoration to the library's Grand Lobby.

In the next stage, according to the library's website, will including a new, twice as large adult learning center, a dedicated teen space and refurbished collections areas.

Additionally, the library says it will make improvements to the HVAC system.

Later plans include repurposing lower level storage areas and connecting the library to nearby Mount Prospect Park through an elevated outdoor garden.