Jonathan Blanc/New York Public Library The new addition to the Stapleton, Staten Island, branch library, which reopened Tuesday after a four-year renovation.Finally, post-Hurricane Sandy, Staten Islanders have something to cheer about: Local civic leaders and elected officials joined executives of the New York Public Library on Tuesday in opening the newly renovated Stapleton branch, which, at 12,000 square feet, is now more than double its original size.
The library, at 132 Canal Street, combines the original 4,800-square-foot Carnegie-financed branch built in 1907 with a 7,000-square-foot addition that has reading rooms, lounges, computer access and a community room.
New York Public Library The Stapleton branch of the library in the early 1900s. It opened in 1907.The renovation, which cost $15.2 million and took four years and was designed by Andrew Berman Architects and overseen by the City’s Department of Design and Construction, brings a much improved library to one of the island’s poorer neighborhoods.
Jonathan Blanc/New York Public Library Tony Marx, president of the New York Public Library, spoke at the branch’s reopening ceremony.
Steve Herman/New York Public Library What shall this library bear be called?“We know how much the residents of Stapleton wanted and needed their library back,†said Tony Marx, president of the New York Public Library, “and we’re so happy to say that it’s back and better than ever, now able to adequately serve the needs of this community.â€
The Stapleton branch also has a new permanent boarder - an orphaned Teddy bear found outside the building several months ago as the staff prepared to return. The bear still needs a name. Suggestions?
