So, Why Are Jay-Z Lyrics All Over Brooklyn Public Library?

PROSPECT HEIGHTS, NY — Something funky is going on at Brooklyn Central Library.

Jay-Z lyrics dramatically and mysteriously appeared on the building this week, covering the entrance facing Eastern Parkway, Flatbush Avenue and Grand Army Plaza.

To make things even weirder, the library was closed all day Thursday "for a special event."

A representative of the library system wouldn't tell Patch what was up with the lyrics — only that they had a related announcement coming Friday.

But an insider told Hell Gate the library was expected to debut a Jay-Z exhibition, complete with a replica of his recording studio Baseline Studios. Hell Gate reported that by Monday, parts of the library were closed and securely guarded.

The exhibition was expected to launch with an exclusive — and surely star-studded — party Thursday, explaining the closure, Hell Gate reported.

Many Brooklynites were delighted by the display, posting videos and photos showing the five columns of black typeface on a white background, including songs like "Hovi Baby," "Things That U Do" and "Dirt Off Your Shoulder."

Social media users speculated whether the famous rapper would do a surprise performance or announce a new album at the library.

"Jay Z's lyrics covers the Brooklyn library entrance wall. That's the library I went to as a kid and I still go to in the present. It's also the entrance where part of Special Ed's video for the song, 'I Got It Made' was created," one Twitter user wrote.

But Hell Gate's source said the staff is less keen on the project, which has been poorly communicated to staff and opaque. Hell Gate noted Brooklyn Public Library's President and CEO also has ties to Jay Z through her husband.

Brooklyn Public Library is currently celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip hop, including dozens of events across all its locations throughout July.

It's looking like a good couple months for museum-goers and fans of pop culture. The nearby Brooklyn Museum on Monday announced a special exhibit dedicated to Spike Lee and his Brooklyn-inspired films. This exhibit will open in October.