Carroll Gardens library turns a new page, nearing December reopening

Well, after three years with its doors closed, the historic Brooklyn Library is turning the page on a new chapter. It's getting a major makeover while holding on to its more than 120-year history. Mike LaMorte gives us an exclusive look inside. Opened in 1904, but since 2023, the doors at Carroll Gardens Library have been shuttered to the public. We found some unexpected things. We had to take extra care. After issues with the building's cooling system, Spokesperson Fritzi Bodenheimer says the library needed a makeover turning a new page if you will construction crews opened up this ceiling adding a new AC unit on the roof and now modern lighting inside to create a welcoming environment it's it's beautiful senior director of community relations Michael Fianny says this vision is three years in the making after numerous delays in many ways the vibe was to let this historic, beautiful building shine. Much of the original infrastructure remains. The once green bookshelves painted black, new computers to bring the library into modern times, and repairs to the dedicated kids zone. These benches have been well loved by 122 years of kids. Right now, the shelves are empty, and some rooms are getting ready for the next chapter. This room will become an auditorium. A lot of the original Carnegie libraries had stages. We'll do programs in here. We'll host community meetings. The ultimate goal, to create a space for everyone. The library is really a center of the community. You can improve your language skills. If you're a kid, you can come to story time. If you're a teen, you can hang out. Books will start hitting the shelves next month, and the library will open December 1st. The deadline this time around, the group says, they promise to deliver on. We're in the Carroll Gardens neighborhood of Brooklyn. Mike LaMorte, News 12. Thank you.