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More details have emerged about the Brooklyn Public Library’s plans to shutter its busy Park Slope branch at the end of October — including a revelation that the old book barn will be closed for at least two years.
The renovation project, which will be discussed at a community meeting on Saturday, was initially undertaken to bring the 103-year-old, Carnegie-era library up to current standards for handicapped access. But this week, library officials said that the work would also include new floors, an air conditioning upgrade, new lighting and new furniture.
The pricetag has ballooned from $2 million to $2.7 million.
Over the summer, some library users complained of the closure, which was then estimated to be no more than 18 months.
“It’s for worthwhile renovations,” said Brian Sulkow, who makes regular visits to the book repository at the corner of Sixth Avenue and Ninth Street. “But closing it for [so long] is significant. It’s a community center. Kids go there after school. People take literacy classes there.”
The majestic brick building was built in 1906 as part of Andrew Carnegie’s library philanthropy and includes classic period features such as Doric columns, fireplaces and stained-glass windows.
Library renovation meeting. Park Slope branch [431 Sixth Ave. in Park Slope, (718) 832-1853], Saturday, Oct. 3, 11 am.
©2009 Community Newspaper Group
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