New York Public Library’s Landmarked 125th Street Branch Reopens Following $176m Renovation

The New York Public Library has reopened its newly renovated 125th Street branch which has been closed since 2021 as part of a major capital investment through the Library’s Carnegie Renovation Program, primarily funded by the city of New York.

The program prioritized five historic libraries in under-resourced neighborhoods for gut renovations to better serve patrons. The libraries selected for repair trace back to a pioneering partnership forged in the early 1900s between New York City and the industrialist Andrew Carnegie who donated land to build public libraries for the betterment of all New Yorkers. 

The 125th Street branch, the first of the five Carnegies to open under the renovation program, provides critical resources and opportunities for the community, including free programs in job training, college and career prep, English as a second language classes, and computer access.

The newly updated branch, a 120 year-old Renaissance Revival building which suffered from leaks, and a dilapidated third floor unfit for public use, now includes technology upgrades, new energy-efficient windows, and new heating and cooling systems for patron comfort, which is especially important given the Library's designation as a gathering place during extreme weather.

The formerly-dilapidated third floor, which housed a live-in custodian decades ago before falling into disrepair, was transformed into a state-of-the-art teen center with dedicated staff on hand to guide and mentor teen patrons, as well as an expansive collection of college and career prep books. 

Other highlights include: 

• multi-purpose rooms for a variety of programs and classes
• improved accessibility, including new accessibility restrooms and a new elevator
• new mechanical and electrical systems including WiFi
• a renovated children's floor boasting new PCs, colorful furniture, and an abundance of natural light
• new technology shelving, furnishings, lighting and collection materials throughout

“New York City’s libraries wear so many hats, they’re community hubs, respites from the heat, gateways to the internet, paths to employment, and so much more, particularly for low-income New Yorkers,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “That’s why we’re so excited to see the 125th Street branch of the New York Public Library reopen. It will serve New Yorkers from all walks of life, especially those of us who have fallen on harder times, for generations to come.”