Brooklyn Public Library releases first ‘State of the Library’ report

How is your branch doing?

The Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) released its first “State of the Library” report on March 15, showcasing the library’s achievements and impact on the community in 2017.

In the past year, BPL circulated over 13 million books and physical materials and over one million digital materials, as well as offered 66,000 programs, including cultural programs, and technology and English classes. Of the programs, over half of them were geared toward children and young adults.

“[BPL] is a partner in neighborhoods throughout the borough, responding to the aspirations and needs of our communities and addressing issues vital to us all,” said Linda Johnson, BPL president and CEO in a release. “We are proud to provide a democratic space where patrons from all walks of life can participate in cultural and educational programs in a broad range of disciplines and reflecting a diverse range of voices.”

BPL has also started building new spaces and renovating existing ones throughout Brooklyn. Southsite in downtown Brooklyn, Vinegar Hill, Brower Park, Brooklyn Heights, Greenpoint and Sunset Park will all receive new branches in the next three years, and branches in Rugby, East Flatbush, Borough Park, New Utrecht, Canarsie, Eastern Parkway, New Lots and Brownsville will be updated. The library also continues to create more outposts in locations like prisons, senior centers and homeless shelters, with the outposts now numbering over 300.

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