Fast Company – The library doubles down on public space after a year of going without it. “…The pandemic caused libraries across the country to reorient the services they offer. In New York City, the library system closed completely before eventually moving to a reservation system for picking up holds. E-book borrowing increased nearly 50% across the country. But while libraries are best known as places to check out books, services like Wi-Fi, computer access, and free meeting spaces are vital community functions and are only possible through its physical space.

Brooklyn Public Library – Brooklyn Public Library Cuts the Ribbon on Remodeled Central Branch: “The leadership of Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) and public officials gathered on Thursday morning to unveil the first phase of a $60-million-renovation of the Central Library branch at Grand Army Plaza. The renovation, which leadership called the largest in the landmarked building’s 80-year history, features a refurbished lobby, an expanded Business and Career Center, a ‘new and noteworthy’ book hall and a “Civic Commons” area with space for government agencies and nonprofits. “This building embodies BPL’s mission,” said Linda Johnson, the library system’s president and CEO. “It’s soaring architecture belongs to absolutely everyone, and inside it they’ll find the resources they need to participate in and advance our democracy.”..