Editor’s note: Leonard Library’s opening was suspended due to staffing shortages caused by Covid. Check here for updates.

Following a temporary closure due to renovations, the noted Leonard Library, sitting at the intersection of Leonard Street and Devoe Street, will reopen on Monday, Jan. 10.

The library will open at 10 a.m., with an ADA-accessible ramp, a new entrance space, new outdoor lights and new front steps. The good news caught the eye of Jennifer Gutiérrez, the new City Council representative for District 34, which covers parts of Bushwick, Ridgewood and Williamsburg.

The Leonard Library is a significant part of Brooklyn history, as it is one of Brooklyn Public Library’s original Carnegie branches, having first opened its doors in December of 1908. Naturally, the 10,000 square foot building has gone through some renovations in its near 114 years of life. However, the exterior remains largely unchanged, according to the library’s history page.

Leonard Library is also famous for being visited by Francie in Betty Smith’s book “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn.” In 2008, Brooklyn Public Library staff joined Smith’s family and the NYC Parks Department to plant a tree in the author’s honor outside of the Leonard Library.

To stay up-to-date with activities happening at Leonard Library, follow the Friends of Leonard Library Facebook page.

Click here for a calendar of all of the Brooklyn Public Library’s virtual and in-person events. Also, click here to stay updated with Brooklyn Public Library Presents, the library system’s curated cultural program, which offers author talks, live performances, music, film, visual art exhibitions and more.

Images: Jackson Schroeder

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