Skip to Main Content

New York Public Library : Brooklyn Public Library

A 92 Library Branch system that services Manhattan, the Bronx and Staten Island, plus anyone who lives, works or goes to school in New York State.

Brooklyn Public Library

Brooklyn Public Library has 58 Branch Locations     

Source: Brooklyn Public Library Logo 

  • Apply for a Brooklyn Public Library Card Anyone who lives, works, goes to school or owns property in NY in entitled to a BPL /Out of State $50 Fee
  • BPL ECard: A Valid email address is required & the ECard has be used by anyone in or out of NY. Only e-materials are checked out & identification is not required. Access online resources including databases and eJournals, use the computers & printers at any BPL Location

Many BPL branches are open for lobby service! You can also return materials during business hours at select locations. View our branch map for available services. Learn more about BPL’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic here.

 

Brooklyn Public Library Online Resources include:    

eBooks at the Brooklyn Public Library      

Brooklyn Public Library

Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) Latest News - as of November 25th 2020;         

List of BPL Branches open for Lobby Service 

 

             

Updated November 25th, 2020

Grab and Go - Lobby Service Branch Locations - Address, Phone # and Hours of Operation

Our Plan to Safely Reopen Our Branches

Lobby Service is now available or coming soon at the below locations. BPL will add open locations and branch offerings over time to help keep our staff and patrons safe. 

Libraries currently offering Lobby Service:
How Lobby Service works:

Patrons have access to select branch lobbies for quick transactions. Masks are required for both patrons and staff. Materials that are checked out during this time will not accrue fines for the time being (nor will fines will accrue on items checked out before the closure). These on-site services will be available:

Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) Latest News - as of November 6th 2020;         

List of BPL Branches open for Lobby Service 

All BPL locations will be closed for Veterans Day on Wednesday, November 11. Homecrest, Midwood, Kensington, and Kings Highway Libraries are temporarily closed due to elevated rates of COVID-19 in surrounding communities; learn more on our response page. Select BPL branches are open for limited lobby service! See our location map for details. 

Reopening Stages & Services

Library services will follow a phased approach and will be available to the public in the below service levels at different locations. Expanding library services will be based on public health circumstances; no dates for Limited Access or Additional Access have been set yet. Continue to check this page and our locations map to see what service levels are available.

Lobby Service
Limited Access
Additional Access

Note: Meeting rooms and branch programs will remain unavailable until further notice.

Always Available

BPL will continue providing virtual services during and beyond our reopening process. Learn more about digital services here.

Health & Safety Protocols

BPL is following the latest safety guidelines from the CDC and American Library Association (ALA) to ensure our branches and materials are safe for our staff and patrons.

Masks

Brooklyn Public Library requires that everyone, staff and patrons included, wear a suitable face covering at all times while inside our facilities. This requirement is based on CDC recommendations as a measure to contain the wearer’s respiratory droplets and help protect all staff and patrons. Wearing a face covering does not replace the need to practice social distancing.

CDC guidelines recommend the use of a washable cloth face covering which covers the nose and mouth. BPL welcomes staff and patrons to wear their own face covering if it meets the following guidelines:

  • fits snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
  • completely covers the nose and mouth
  • is secured with ties or ear loops
  • includes multiple layers of fabric
  • allows for breathing without restriction

If staff or patrons do not have a suitable cloth face covering (as determined exclusively by the Library), we will provide single-use, disposable face coverings for use while on BPL premises. These are multiple-layer, non-surgical masks intended for use for no more than 4 continuous hours. These masks will be provided at any time upon request.

Materials

Returned materials will be quarantined before being put back into circulation. This means it may take a few extra days to receive materials on hold, and to see returns come off your account—thank you for your patience!

Supplies

  • BPL is providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for all Custodial and public service staff. This includes disposable surgical masks and gloves. Masks will be required for all patrons and staff.
  • EPA-certified cleaning products, hand sanitizer and soap will be available at all branches
  • Wipes will be available to disinfect computers, laptops and self-service kiosks once they are available for patron use

Signage

Floor decals and signs will provide guidance on social distancing and updates on available library services.

Space

  • Desks and tables will be situated appropriately for social distancing, for both staff and patrons
  • HVAC will be configured per branch layout to promote maximum fresh air circulation

Note: These plans are subject to change, based on the latest guidance from public health professionals and elected officials.

© 2024 New York Institute of Technology