NYC DDC | Mill Basin Library Reopens After Energy-Saving Upgrade

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January 29, 2018

Mill Basin Library Reopens After Energy-Saving Upgrade

Contact:
Ian Michaels
718-391-1589

Brooklyn, NY – The Mill Basin Library in Brooklyn reopened today following a $1.3 million project by the NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC) that enhanced the 1974 building’s energy efficiency and upgraded the fire alarm systems. The completion of the project was marked by a ceremony featuring students from nearby PS 236 elementary school.

The Mill Basin Library at 2385 Ralph Avenue following its upgrade and renovation

“The new HVAC system will provide patrons a more comfortable experience and greatly improve the condition of the library, while a new fire alarm system improves safety for all users,” said DDC Acting Commissioner Ana Barrio. “We are proud to be part of reopening the Mill Basin branch with our partners in government and the community.”

“We are thrilled to return to Mill Basin Library,” said Linda E. Johnson, President and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library. “With a refreshment and new HVAC system, our patrons now have a bright modern space to meet, study and learn. We thank Councilman Alan Maisel and City of New York for supporting this project.”

“I am happy that Mill Basin Library’s repairs are complete and the branch is ready to reopen,” said Councilmember Alan Maisel. “Libraries provide important services to the community and its absence was felt.”

The renovation by DDC was budgeted at $1.5 million but cost only $1.3 million to complete. It included a new high-efficiency HVAC and climate control system, paired with an automated Building Management System (BMS) that communicates to the central branch of the borough’s library system. The fire alarm system was upgraded to work in conjunction with the new BMS, and new windows and LED lighting were installed to conserve additional energy.

While the 7,500-square-foot branch was closed, Brooklyn Public Library refreshed and modernized the branch with new paint, tables, chairs and shelving, enhanced lighting and signage, additional computers and a modern children’s area with new furniture.

Students from PS 236 celebrate the re-opening of Mill Basin Library

The library is close to two elementary schools, one intermediate school and six private or religious schools, and hosts a large number of local youth programs. To join Friends of Mill Basin Library, a group of organized volunteers who help the library through advocacy, fundraising and promotion, ask a staff member for details or email friends@bklynlibrary.org.

About the NYC Department of Design and Construction
The Department of Design and Construction is the City’s primary capital construction project manager. In supporting Mayor de Blasio’s lenses of growth, sustainability, resiliency, equity and healthy living, DDC provides communities with new or renovated public buildings such as such as firehouses, libraries, police precincts, new or upgraded roadways, sewers, water mains in all five boroughs. To manage this $15 billion portfolio, DDC partners with other City agencies, architects and consultants, whose experience bring efficient, innovative, and environmentally-conscious design and construction strategies to city projects. For more information, please visit nyc.gov/ddc.