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Recovery Indicators: Brooklyn Public Library reopens select 13 of 60 branches

Visitors can browse books, use the computer

May 11, 2021 Brooklyn Eagle Staff
Brooklyn Public Library
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In another of many signs that Covid restrictions are loosening and the city is opening up, the Brooklyn Public Library yesterday opened up 13 library branches throughout the borough to browsing and computer use, not just for picking up books that were already reserved.

The branches that have been chosen are only 13 of the approximately 60 branches in the Brooklyn library system, but the BPL website assures visitors that more branches will open for expanded service later in the spring and during the summer.

The branches are Brownsville, Canarsie, Central (Grand Army Plaza), Clinton Hill, Coney Island, Crown Heights, Flatbush, Fort Hamilton, Greenpoint, Kings Highway (one of the largest branches next to the Central Branch) Midwood, Mill Basin and Red Hook.

Looking at these libraries on a map, there are several neighborhoods that are not that close to the branches that have been chosen, in particular the South Brooklyn areas of Gravesend, Bensonhurst, Bath Beach and Borough Park; the areas in and around Downtown Brooklyn; and Williamsburg and Bushwick.

The 13 aforementioned libraries are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and from 1 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday.
You can now visit these 13 locations to:
* Browse the shelves: Patrons can browse first-floor shelves and check out books and materials at the checkout desk, or use self-check machines or the BPL mobile app. At Central Library, librarians can also assist patrons by retrieving books from our storage shelves.
* Use the computers and printers: Patrons can call the branch in advance or visit the service desk to reserve up to two computer sessions per day, or send documents to quick release printers. Note: You cannot reserve computers in advance at Central Library; that location is walk-in only.
* Register, renew or upgrade a library card: Activate a new library card (you can apply in advance on our website) renew a card, or upgrade an eCard.
* Holds pickup & returns: Patrons can pick up the books they’ve reserved in advance and return books and other materials.
* Apply for a passport or IDNYC (by appointment only): Available only at Central Library, patrons can make an appointment to visit Passport Services or IDNYC.

Of course, masks are still required, and patrons are asked to limit their time inside to an hour.

For those who prefer to live the virtual life, the library system still is sponsoring online events such as storytime, resume help, cooking classes and yoga.

The library system, at some locations, also has a “BPL Outdoors” program where residents can register for cards, borrow laptops and access wi-fi, read books and participate in storytime programs outside the buildings.

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