The Jackson Heights branch library located at 35-51 81st St. will be closed for a month (Photo: Historic Districts Council)
April 25, 2022 By Czarinna Andres
The Jackson Heights branch of the Queens Public Library has closed for a month in preparation of a major renovation and expansion scheduled to begin in mid-2024.
The branch, located at 35-51 81st St., closed beginning Monday, April 25—in order for workers to assess the foundations and soil in preparation of future construction.
The Queens Public Library plans to renovate both the interior and exterior of the 18,000 square foot library as well as expand it 3,000 square feet. The project includes improvements to the building’s accessibility, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, lighting, and plumbing.
The building’s limestone and granite façade and some of its original features will be restored. Energy efficient windows, wall components and a new roof will also be installed.
The one-month closure comes on the same day the Flushing branch is fully reopening.
The 41-17 Main St. branch hasn’t been fully open since March 2020, following the outbreak of COVID-19.
The branch did reopen to staff in July 2020 to help distribute books and materials. In November 2020, the branch then started offering to-go service.
The library was later used as a vaccination hub before its cooling and heating system failed in May 2021 causing it to fully close in July.
