By Juan Soto
The Rochdale Village Library is expected to temporarily close the book Aug. 2 to undergo a $4.1 million renovation project that includes a new roof.
The city Department of Design and Construction will complete the makeover at the library, at 169-09 137th Ave., sometime in October, a Queens Library spokeswoman said.
Joanne King explained that the leaking roof needs to be replaced, and that is why the library will close its doors for a little more than two months.
“Roofs wear out and start to leak,” she added. “And it’s better to replace the roof rather than repairing it.”
She said the new roof is part of a larger project. The renovation includes the expansion of the Adult Learning Center adjacent to the library space, more computers, more classroom space, a new fire protection system and state-of-the-art self-checking technology.
The funding for the improvements come from City Councilman Ruben Wills’ (D-Jamaica) office and the borough president.
While the work is being done, there will be a mobile library at the site of the branch that will provide limited services every Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., added King.
In the meantime, library users are invited to check out Harry Porter, Hillary Clinton’s “Hard Choices” or Donna Tart’s “The Goldfinch” at any other Queens Library branch.
The closest branches to the Rochdale Village location are Laurelton, at 134-26 225th St., and St. Albans, at 191-05 Linden Blvd. Both have self-service return 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Reach reporter Juan Soto by e-mail at jsoto@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4564.
