Rejuvenated New Utrecht Library reopens in Bensonhurst

Bensonhurst bookworms, rejoice!

The New Utrecht Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) has officially reopened and by all accounts, better than ever.

After a brief, renovation-fueled closing from June to November, the branch, located at 1743 86th Street, is flaunting major improvements including interior fixes, new lighting, furniture, shelving, children’s play and learning equipment and computer tables.

“We are very, very thankful. There are not enough words to say how grateful we are,” said Branch Manager Tambe John at the official reopening of the branch on Thursday, November 3. “We needed it. In this community, everybody comes here. We have a large Chinese community, large Russian community, the Italian community comes and we have a large Spanish community that also comes, and of course our English community, so a renovation was so greatly needed and came at the most opportune time.”

According to BPL, the New Utrecht branch ranks in the top five of BPL’s 60 branches for circulation and attendance.

“The New Utrecht Library is one of the most frequented libraries in Brooklyn and with that, I’m extremely proud that it resides in my district and in Bensonhurst,” said Councilmember Vincent Gentile, who helped secure funding for the library’s renovation. “Our library-goers deserve these interior upgrades as they will continue to learn, engage and read in a comfortable and modern environment for years to come.”

“Brooklyn Public Library is excited to welcome the community back to New Utrecht Library,” added BPL President and CEO Linda Johnson. “We look forward to serving the patrons of this busy branch in a brighter building with more public computers and improved spaces for community programs.”

The branch’s hours are Monday and Friday, 10 a.m to 6 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“We’re thankful to Councilmember Gentile and everyone who gave us this funding so the community can come,” added John. “Everyone is always welcome; it’s an open space for all.”