“Great high energy place to hang out a few blocks from my house!”
— Lou, Metropolitan Avenue
Every neighborhood deserves library access, even during renovations.
The Leonard Library (81 Devoe St, Williamsburg) is about to close again for at least two years. We're calling for a replacement library space during renovations, like other neighborhoods have gotten.
7 neighbors and counting
What's Happening
The Leonard Library at 81 Devoe Street in Williamsburg reopened in August 2025 after a 2.5-year Phase I closure for HVAC, roof, and historic ceiling restoration. Now Phase II is coming: ADA accessibility upgrades including a new elevator and accessible bathrooms. Construction is expected to run from Fall 2027 to Fall 2029.
Meanwhile, the nearby Bushwick branch is closing June 5, 2026 for about two years. Both North Brooklyn libraries could be closed at the same time, roughly Fall 2027 through mid-2028.
When Carroll Gardens, Red Hook, and Fort Greene closed for renovations, they got real pop-up libraries with books, computers, WiFi, and staff. During Leonard's last closure, North Brooklyn mostly got a book cart called 'Nellie.' We're calling for better.
Messages of support from neighbors.
“I go to the library to check out books, print out documents, and even enjoy an afternoon”
— Miles, Devoe Street
“The library gives me access to a wifi, a computer and a printer”
— Dana, Powers Street
Next CB1 Meeting
Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM at Swinging Sixties Senior Center, 211 Ainslie Street
This is bigger than Leonard.
The Bushwick branch closes June 5, 2026. North Brooklyn is losing two libraries.
See the pattern →