5. INTRODUCTION
People have long turned to As the role of public libraries
Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) is growing, we also will move
as a critical and free source of aggressively to incorporate new
educational and recreational strategies for better serving
programming and resources. For the public. Libraries now offer
the Library to remain relevant, materials in more formats, on more
it must adapt to meet the platforms and in more languages
current and anticipated needs of than ever before. And as technology
Brooklynites—from combating has become more integral to
illiteracy, unemployment and daily life, we have expanded our
the digital divide, to cultivating traditional literacy programs to
entrepreneurship, creativity and include digital training. Libraries
civic engagement. Now more than around the world are becoming
ever, the Library must be flexible, laboratories, places where people
dependable and well equipped to not only consume information,
support the borough. but create it. New trends will
continue to emerge, and BPL will
Linda E. Johnson
To determine the steps we keep working to offer the critical
should take to strengthen our resources and opportunities the
institution, over the past three citizens of a great borough deserve.
years, BPL solicited feedback
from many individuals, including We are deeply grateful for the
patrons, elected officials, trustees, support of elected officials, donors,
employees and community the Board of Trustees, friends
members. Based on this input we groups, BPL’s employees and
identified six major goals, centered volunteers, and most importantly,
on education, access, culture, our patrons. All of you breathe life
inclusion, space and stewardship. into our buildings and transform
These priorities will guide our them into centers of community,
programming and financial learning and knowledge. Above
decisions in the years to come. all else, our libraries are places for
everyone, and BPL is committed
Brooklyn is a diverse and dynamic to ensuring that this fact will
borough that is home to more never change.
than 2.5 million people, including
a growing creative community, Very truly,
Anthony W. Crowell
large immigrant population
and many residents who have
limited access to technology. Linda E. Johnson
Each of our 60 libraries needs to President & CEO
reflect and support their unique
neighborhoods. By nurturing
community ties and keeping
abreast of demographic trends, we Anthony W. Crowell
will provide highly customized, Chair, Board of Trustees
focused and responsive service to
all Brooklynites.
Brooklyn Public Library 5
7. creatING the
strategic plan
This document is the outcome of a highly collaborative process that began over three
years ago and involved qualitative and quantitative planning initiatives. Internally, these
efforts included a public service staff retreat, system-wide staff survey, two strategic
planning retreats with our Board of Trustees and over 30 focus groups and interviews
with a total of more than 60 employees. Externally, we commissioned a rigorous
Community Needs Assessment, which gathered information from 11 patron focus groups
and 1,500 households as well as through a multilingual telephone survey and online
surveys. We analyzed demographic and census tract data, including information from
the NYC Department of City Planning and the Center for the Study of Brooklyn. Finally,
the Library conducted a thorough review of branch usage, secondary data and industry
trends, including “Creating the Future: A 2020 Vision Plan for Library Service in New
York State” by the New York State Regents Advisory Council and “The Library in the
City: Changing Demands and A Challenging Future” by The Pew Charitable Trusts.
Brooklyn Public Library 7
9. Executive Summary
Since 1896, Brooklyn Public Library (BPL), in accordance with its mission, has provided
the people of Brooklyn with free and open access to information for education, recreation
and reference. Evenly distributed across the diverse borough, BPL’s 60 locations serve
as integral community gathering spaces for a wide variety of purposes. In many
neighborhoods, the local branch library has remained one of the few constants amid
more than a century of extraordinary change. Regardless of events outside its walls, the
neighborhood branch has been a trustworthy source of timely and reliable information
on a wide range of topics and a safe haven for children after school. Perhaps most
importantly, BPL provides all library patrons with a sense of dignity and belonging,
regardless of age, race or income.
While the Library remains a fundamental community institution, profound external
changes in the way information is disseminated and accessed make it imperative for
us to revisit our service model to enhance core services, re-envision programming to
ensure its relevancy, and develop new and innovative approaches to best serve Brooklyn’s
unique populations.
Brooklyn Public Library 9
11. Total Population by Neighborhood Tabulation Area* Our Vision: Every Brooklynite
Brooklyn, 2010 can Start Here
People come to BPL for many
Brooklyn Total = 2,504,700 reasons: some want to create or
improve their resumes, check out
Total Population
80,000 or more (6 neighborhoods)
books or start new businesses,
65,000 to 79,999 (6) while others want to learn English,
50,000 to 64,999 (10)
35,000 to 49,999 (10) study local history or write the
25,000 to 34,999
Less than 25,000
(12)
(6)
next Great American Novel.
Whatever their reasons for visiting
the Library, BPL will help patrons
begin their journeys. Guided by
Branch
c
Æ Central this strategic plan, the Library
c
Æ Business & Career Library
will focus on being a leading voice
c
Æ All Other
in digital literacy, offering access
to technology and providing
support for children, families,
* Neighborhood Tabulation Areas or NTAs, are aggregations of census tracts that are
subsets of New York City's 55 Public Use Microdata Areas (PUMAs). Primarily due to
these constraints, NTA boundaries and their associated names may not definitively Sources: U.S. Census Bureau: 2006–2010 American Community Survey-FactFinder
Population Division-New York City Department of City Planning
entrepreneurs, jobseekers and
represent neighborhoods.
Brooklyn’s creative community.
We will strive to make our
branches welcoming environments
Poverty Rate by Neighborhood Tabulation Area* to all patrons, from returning
Brooklyn, 2006–2010 veterans to new immigrants. BPL
will also build close partnerships
with institutions and organizations
with complementary missions. By
Poverty Rate
working with agencies ranging
40.0% or more (1 neighborhood)
from the NYC Department of
25.0% to 39.9% (16) Education to BRIC Arts | Media
15.0% to 24.9% (17)
10.0% to 14.9% (13) | Bklyn, the Library will expand
Below 10.0% (3)
its reach and enhance the services
offered to the public. The Library
aspires to be a nimble organization,
one that is responsive to its
Branch
c
Æ Central Library environment and able to quickly
c
Æ
c
Æ
Business & Career Library
All Other
adapt to changes in user needs.
* Neighborhood Tabulation Areas or NTAs, are aggregations of census tracts that are
subsets of New York City's 55 Public Use Microdata Areas (PUMAs). Primarily due to
these constraints, NTA boundaries and their associated names may not definitively Sources: U.S. Census Bureau: 2006–2010 American Community Survey-FactFinder
represent neighborhoods. Population Division-New York City Department of City Planning
1
Center for the Study of Brooklyn- Brooklyn Neighborhood Reports 2012
2
2010 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimate (DP02)
3
2010 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimate (CP03)
Brooklyn Public Library 11
12. Strategic Goals
1. EDUCATION 2. ACCESS 3. CULTURE
Promote early literacy, lifelong Improve access to library Support creative expression,
learning and civic participation resources and increase culture and the arts
• reate a foundation for
C the number of active throughout Brooklyn
educational success through registered cardholders • rovide cultural programming
P
youth, family and school • evelop a targeted collection
D and recreational opportunities
engagement that reflects Brooklyn’s diverse • ighlight the borough’s
H
• uild strong literacy skills among
B cultures and interests and rich history and the work of
teenage and adult learners, provides access via preferred contemporary Brooklyn authors
enabling them to achieve their formats and media and writers
educational goals • ake it easier to find, borrow
M • ecome a lead supporter of
B
• dvance digital literacy and
A and return BPL materials and Brooklyn’s creative community
engage users across the spectrum resources online, in person and
of technology proficiency across the City Key Initiative: In 2013, launch
• elp jobseekers and
H • upport and launch efforts
S a new writers-in-residence
entrepreneurs develop a to provide Brooklynites with program to support aspiring
foundation of skills access to our collections in non- writers and expand the use of
• ncourage patrons to be civically
E traditional settings the Espresso Book Machine as
engaged and informed • reate a library membership
C a self-publishing resource.
program that recognizes and
Key Initiative: In 2012, we rewards active users Key Initiative: In 2013, adopt
launched MyLibraryNYC, a a new acquisitions strategy
collaboration between the City’s Key Initiative: In 2012, we for the Brooklyn Collection
three library systems and the converted to BiblioCommons, an to include contemporary
NYC Department of Education interactive online catalog with Brooklyn works in addition to
to provide services for public improved search capabilities, its existing concentration on
school students and educators. multilingual translations, mobile nineteenth and early twentieth
Through this initiative, we provide applications and social media century historical materials.
a seamless online catalog across features. This is a first step
the four institutions and deliver toward improving our digital
our vast collections directly to NYC presence through our website
public school libraries. and on mobile devices.
Key Initiative: By 2014, launch Key Initiative: By 2017, expand
Start Here: Literacy, an initiative BPL membership to over 50% of
to reconfigure BPL’s services to Brooklyn’s 2.5 million residents.
prepare adult learners for new
computer-based GED tests.
12 Brooklyn Public Library
13. 4. INCLUSION 5. SPACE 6. STEWARDSHIP
Present a welcoming and Provide functional, attractive and Develop and maintain an
inclusive environment safe spaces and align the Library’s adaptive and responsive culture
• trengthen library accessibility
S physical footprint with twenty- of service
for immigrants first century service delivery • ctively engage staff, trustees,
A
• rovide programming and
P • odernize the Library’s real-
M supporters, volunteers and
services for older adults estate footprint to deliver partner organizations in
• mprove service to all patrons,
I services in the spaces where our the Library’s mission and
including veterans, persons users live and work transformation
experiencing homelessness, • ffer flexible spaces that meet
O • aunch a networked service
L
people with disabilities, and the evolving needs of our users model to optimize services
incarcerated and formerly • reate environments that
C and locations throughout
incarcerated individuals accommodate existing and the borough
emerging technology and • eepen and build relationships
D
Key Initiative: In 2012, we facilitate digital learning with existing and new funders
partnered with the Center for • ontinue to renovate the
C • ncrease transparency,
I
Court Innovation to provide landmarked Central Library accountability and efficiency
space at the Stone Avenue to create spaces designed to across the institution
branch in Brownsville for support innovative and relevant
returning probationers to programs and services Key Initiative: In 2013, establish
meet with caseworkers in a shared library technical
their local communities. Key Initiative: BPL will leverage services partnership with NYPL,
its over one million square enabling universal drop-off
Key Initiative: In 2013, through feet of real estate by launching services across four boroughs
a partnership with Lifetime partnerships to provide expanded for our libraries’ patrons.
Arts, BPL will expand artist-led services, including co-location
instructional arts programming for and/or program delivery with Key Initiative: In 2013, launch
older adults, providing them with groups such as Spaceworks and a BPL membership program for
opportunities to be creative and BRIC Arts | Media | Bklyn. individual donors.
socialize within their communities.
Key Initiative: Open the Shelby
White and Leon Levy Information
Commons in 2013, which will
become the cornerstone of BPL’s
efforts to advance digital literacy
and engagement across the
borough and builds upon our
current strength as the borough’s
largest provider of free WiFi and
computer access.
Brooklyn Public Library 13
15. Promote early literacy, lifelong learning and civic participation
Brooklyn is a diverse borough of long-time residents and newcomers, all hoping to make
better lives for themselves, their families and their neighbors. Brooklyn Public Library is
a trusted institution Brooklynites can turn to for assistance as they strive to fulfill their
goals. Education and civic engagement are keys to unlocking the doors of success and
BPL is committed to creating a vibrant and responsive institution that meets the needs
of today’s patrons and those of the future.
From early literacy to digital literacy, homework help to job training, college readiness
to entrepreneurship, BPL is a place for all Brooklynites to take the next step in realizing
their dreams. By promoting a culture of lifelong learning and providing a safe and
welcoming space, BPL will help patrons explore new ideas, new identities and new
connections in the community. In the diverse and evolving neighborhoods that BPL
serves, the Library will continue to be an agent of change for all.
Key Initiatives
2013: Expand 2013: Launch partnership
2013: Open Shelby
2012: Launch Homework Help to deliver digital literacy
White and Leon Levy
MyLibraryNYC program to include all programs with
Information Commons
students grades 1-12 BRIC Arts | Media | Bklyn
2013: Launch 2017: Expand continuum
2015: Expand digital
Start Here: Literacy, an of adult education,
2014: Launch literacy and technology
initiative to prepare entrepreneurship and
PowerUp! Jr. for device lending
adult learners for new jobseeker programs across
young entrepreneurs programs across
computer-based GED BPL’s campus and
the borough
test requirements Central Library
Brooklyn Public Library 15
19. Workforce1 Career Centers
BPL has long offered a wide range of free services for jobseekers, such as interviewing
and job search workshops, resume writing assistance and career assessment and
exploration software. Yet, BPL has never had the capacity to offer on-site some of the
most important resources for job seekers: actual job placement and recruiting services.
To help meet the demand for these services, BPL partnered with the NYC Department
of Small Business Services to launch Workforce1 Career Centers at Central Library and
Sunset Park Library. Since their opening in October 2011, these centers have referred
4,439 New Yorkers to interviews that have resulted in 917 job placements. Additionally, to ensure appropriate referrals to the
Career Centers, librarians received customized training from the Workforce Professionals Training Institute, including how to assess
the needs of the under or unemployed.
Jobseekers can now visit the Library to accomplish all of the steps involved in becoming workforce-ready: from learning English
as a second language, improving literacy skills and editing cover letters and resumes, to learning computer skills and ultimately,
being referred to organizations in the process of hiring.
Bklyn to provide media education laptops, public programs and Help jobseekers and
and production classes. In 2016, outreach at eight neighborhood entrepreneurs develop a
our digital literacy initiative libraries located in some of foundation of skills
will be complemented by a new Brooklyn’s most underserved
technology-rich, dedicated teen neighborhoods. Based on the BPL’s Business Career
space at Central Library, with success of this effort, BPL will Library (BCL) meets the needs
equipment ranging from tablets expand its technology device of entrepreneurs, business owners,
to gaming consoles, as well as lending program and digital investors, jobseekers, students and
comfortable, flexible and inviting literacy initiatives to additional community organizations through
furniture to accommodate group branches by 2015. an array of resources and services.
interactivity, and encourage The Library will invest in It provides access to information,
participation by an audience that technologies and programs that both online and in print, that
has been traditionally difficult for facilitate training, interaction supports the economic development
libraries to reach. and experimentation with digital of Brooklyn and its residents.
BPL is the largest provider of tools, and we will partner with Services include one-on-one
free WiFi access in the borough. innovators to provide cutting- business and finance consultations,
For many patrons, the Library edge resources. In addition, we resume and test prep help,
provides their sole access to need to continuously upgrade instruction in job searching and
computers and the internet. our technology infrastructure computer use, topical seminars,
BPL bridges the digital divide to deliver services effectively computer access and more.
by providing a crucial link to and efficiently. From computer Additionally, BPL has partnered
databases, job applications and tablets for class visits to self- with the NYC Department of
information that is increasingly checkout technology, the Library Small Business Services (SBS)
only available online. A will closely track consumer to offer Workforce1 Expansion
program funded through the preferences and modernize Centers at Central Library and
federal Broadband Technology its workflow accordingly. Sunset Park Library. These centers
Opportunities Program (BTOP) connect qualified candidates to job
allows BPL to provide enhanced opportunities across the city.
broadband access and increased
technology resources including
Brooklyn Public Library 19
21. Bookmobile headed to areas impacted by Hurricane Sandy.
Encourage patrons to Initiative, New York Cares, Street In the coming years, we will
be civically engaged Lab, Transit Forward, United Way work with civic and social service
and informed and countless others to collect warm organizations and government
coats for displaced individuals and agencies to expand our efforts to
BPL provides equal access to families, offer online learning tools host community meetings, debates
knowledge and the tools necessary for displaced public school students, for local elections and community
for an informed, engaged and and provide information on FEMA forums. These collaborations will
educated citizenry, while serving applications and voting sites across help advance personal growth,
as a powerful force for economic the system. Locally, BPL opened local action and civic awareness
growth. The Library acts as a town the Red Hook branch as a warming among our patrons.
hall, and our support for civic center and provided storm supplies,
engagement is an extension of our charging stations and children’s
core services. activities through our bookmobiles
BPL is trusted throughout the at Coney Island, Gerritsen Beach
borough as an unbiased provider and Red Hook. Every year, we also
of information. Our environment host public engagement campaigns,
cultivates community involvement, ranging from registration for
volunteerism and the open exchange Early Intervention services for
of ideas. With branches in almost babies and toddlers to providing
every community, BPL is uniquely assistance to Brooklynites preparing
situated to foster and support local for the Diversity Immigrant Visa
community-based groups, and serve Program. Our branches meet their
as a bridge between Brooklyn’s community’s needs by holding
diverse communities. In 2012, our citizenship classes, workshops
civic role was best evidenced by our in financial literacy, health and
comprehensive storm response. BPL nutrition and by partnering with
partnered with organizations such local groups.
as Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA), Red Hook
Brooklyn Public Library 21
23. Improve access to library resources and increase the number of
active registered cardholders
Brooklyn Public Library’s collection is one of its core public resources and our professional
staff use their vast knowledge of books and research methods to connect patrons to
the information they seek. This expertise becomes even more critical as we continue to
offer materials in new formats and on multiple platforms. Our staff have an invaluable
understanding of community needs, from school curricula to popular titles in their
neighborhoods, that can help guide our patrons’ online and offline experiences.
As the publishing industry moves inexorably toward digital production and distribution,
the Library must ensure access for those who may not have the means or training to
take advantage of the benefits of electronic formats. BPL must also continue to promote
literacy and learning through engaging active patrons and non-users alike. Through
online community outreach, “pop-up” libraries in pedestrian plazas and direct delivery to
homebound seniors, the Library will ensure access to our collection for all Brooklynites.
In the coming years, the Library will deepen its relationship with individual patrons,
supporters, donors and leaders that comprise the communities we serve and encourage active
and meaningful use of our assets, from our programs to our spaces to our materials.
Key Initiatives
2012: Expand collection
2012: Launch new to support Common 2012: Expand eBook 2013: Launch program
online catalog, Core educational access beginning with to recognize and reward
BiblioCommons standards and Penguin/3M/NYPL pilot “power users”
immigrant communities
2013: Begin pilot 2014: Launch universal 2017: Expand BPL
2013: Expand Readers
efforts to offer BPL card and universal membership to
Advisory services
in non-traditional drop-off services across over 50% of Brooklyn’s
system-wide
“pop-up” spaces the City 2.5m residents
Brooklyn Public Library 23
24. Develop a targeted collection of the platform or device. BPL our Readers’ Advisory services,
that reflects Brooklyn’s will continue to build an eBook which include everything from
diverse cultures and interests collection that represents our suggesting books to library
and provides access via patrons’ diversity and reading patrons at the circulation desk, to
preferred formats and media preferences. In partnership with recommending online materials
NYPL, BPL has worked to increase in order to help patrons find
BPL’s collection is targeted eBook access for our patrons, the information they need.
to meet our patrons’ broad through efforts including a 2012 In partnership with New York
educational and recreational pilot with Penguin Group and 3M. Public Library and Queens Library,
needs. The collection ranges from At the same time, libraries BPL is strongly advocating for
online databases and original currently have little control over the establishment of citywide
source material for writers, to the publisher/eBook distributor universal card privileges and
GED test preparation books and relationship. It’s our responsibility universal drop-off services by 2015.
contemporary Russian novels. to continue to educate readers According to recent commuter
Our collection must be curated to about the issues concerning access analysis provided by the Population
maintain its quality and relevance to eBooks in public libraries and Division of the NYC Department of
to our changing user base. The advocate for libraries’ interests by City Planning, this change would
Library has carefully managed its partnering with national initiatives benefit the 807,000+ commuters
acquisitions strategy, and today spearheaded by the American who currently work in a borough
our branches circulate nearly Library Association as well as other than the one in which they
20 million books, materials and grassroots efforts like Reader’s live, and the countless students
eBooks a year. In 2012, BPL began First, a new coalition to improve who attend schools outside their
a two-year efffort to expand its eBook access and services for resident boroughs. This service
collection to meet the needs of public library users. expansion will begin in 2014 with
Brooklyn students and educators as a pilot involving BPL and NYPL,
the Common Core rolls out across Make it easier to find, which will allow any NYPL or BPL
New York State. BPL will continue borrow and return BPL patron to drop off materials in
to regularly evaluate its selection materials and resources either system’s branches.
and acquisitions strategy and online, in person and
continue engaging with publishers, across the City Support and launch efforts
distributors and patrons. to provide Brooklynites with
As user reading preferences BPL strives to make its access to our collections in
incorporate more digital content, collection of books, eBooks, DVDs non-traditional settings
BPL will respond by providing and other materials easy to find
access to all platforms. The shift and convenient to use. In 2012, BPL will offer our materials in
from physical to digital materials BPL launched BiblioCommons, unexpected environments, from
has been dramatic. According to a a new online search tool that “pop-up” libraries in pedestrian
July 2012 survey by the Association provides accurate, more relevant plazas to the extended loan of
of American Publishers and the and user-friendly catalog search materials at public schools or
Book Industry Study Group, results and enables users to senior centers. MyLibraryNYC
eBooks more than doubled in connect with other readers, share is our first major expansion of
popularity in 2011, with eBooks book reviews and keep track of material access to Brooklynites,
outselling hardcover books in adult their reading history. BPL’s new with books being delivered directly
fiction for the first time. catalog also features information to Brooklyn public schools. We
Currently, BPL has one of in Spanish, Chinese, French and will also strengthen our “deposit
the top eBook collections in Russian, and is the platform that collections,” through which the
the country. As our patrons supports the MyLibraryNYC public Library lends targeted materials
increasingly choose digital formats, school initiative. reflective of local needs at
our goal is to ensure the same Beginning in 2013, our neighborhood community centers.
customer experience regardless library professionals will grow
24 Brooklyn Public Library
25. Note: Total Circulation includes all library materials. Digital Circulation is limited to video, music, audio books and eBooks.
Circulation Per Capita Comparison
(FY 2011)
Seattle, WA
Columbus,OH
Indianapolis, IN
San Jose, CA
San Francisco, CA
Toronto, ON
Library System
Jacksonville, FL
Phoenix, AZ
Queens, NY
New York, NY
Brooklyn,NY
Dallas, TX
Fort Worth,TX
Charlotte,NC
Boston, MA
San Diego, CA
Philadelphia, PA
San Antonio, TX
0.00 2.00 4.00 6.00 8.00 10.00 12.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 20.00
Source: Public Library Data Service (PLDS).
Brooklyn Public Library 25
29. Support creative expression, culture and
the arts throughout Brooklyn
Brooklyn Public Library is committed to inspiring Brooklynites of all ages by providing
access to outstanding cultural resources, such as author talks, musical performances
and art exhibitions. BPL is uniquely situated to bring together artists with very different
backgrounds to engage in dialogue and build community. In the coming years, we will
strengthen our libraries’ roles as creative centers of their neighborhoods. The Library
will consider what Brooklyn’s many writers, designers, artists and other creative
residents want—such as access to training, programs and workspaces—and how the
institution can reposition itself to become a stronger force for advancing their growth
and artistic development.
BPL is also at the epicenter of a resurgent interest in the history of Brooklyn, from
former residents to the national and international press. People across the world
wish to trace their roots to the borough, view historic maps of neighborhoods, and
connect with photos, ephemera and other materials. We will significantly improve
access to the Brooklyn Collection and expand its holdings so that more people can
research their genealogy, track Brooklyn’s current cultural renaissance and learn
about the borough’s history.
Key Initiatives
2012: Launch Brooklyn
2013: Launch partnership
2012: Install Espresso Visual Heritage website 2013: Launch BPL
with Spaceworks at
Book Machine for with Brooklyn Historical writers-in-residence
Red Hook and
self publishing Society, Brooklyn Museum program
Williamsburgh branches
and Pratt Institute
2014: Launch “Artist
2014: Expand the 2015: Complete
Toolkit” to help
Brooklyn Collection to digitization of Brooklyn
independent artists
document Brooklyn’s Daily Eagle and 63 local
build skills to achieve
contemporary culture Brooklyn newspapers
sustainable careers
Brooklyn Public Library 29
30. Provide cultural build upon our recent successes, In the coming years, we will strive
programming and such as 2012’s Fashion Illustration: to offer a more comprehensive look
recreational opportunities A Contemporary Look, one of the at our borough. In late 2012, we
largest showcases ever assembled of launched Brooklyn Visual Heritage,
Creative expression, recreation the work of established and widely a website created in collaboration
and an appreciation for the arts published New York- and Brooklyn- with Pratt Institute’s School of
are important for all Brooklynites. based fashion illustrators. BPL Information and Library Science,
Learning can happen in many will also work to attract more the Brooklyn Historical Society
ways, and BPL offers a diverse New Yorkers to Central Library’s and Brooklyn Museum. This effort,
range of programs and resources Dr. S. Stevan Dweck Center developed through the Institute
that encourage imaginative for Contemporary Culture, the of Museum and Library Services-
learning for people of all ages and Library’s largest performance funded Project CHART (Cultural
backgrounds. These opportunities venue. We will continue to provide Heritage, Access, Research and
include storytimes, arts and crafts, programming through partnerships Technology), focuses on developing
chess workshops, Summer Reading with the Brooklyn Philharmonic, the skills of future staff members
events, film series and dance classes Carnegie Hall and the Museum and on the digitization of historic
on Central Library’s plaza as well as of Modern Art. In 2013, BPL will images of Brooklyn. By 2015, BPL
other interactive experiences. increase community participation will complete the digitization of
Our cultural programs will in programs by using targeted the Brooklyn Daily Eagle, which
extend across all age levels. To outreach and creating a more user- includes the years spanning 1903–
further support our growing friendly online events calendar. 1955, as well as 63 other Brooklyn
partnership with the NYC As a result, more people will neighborhood papers. To facilitate
Department of Education, BPL will experience the rich and culturally access, we will redesign Brooklyn
expand its Theater in the Schools diverse schedule of readings, talks Collection’s website to improve
program, which has already and performances presented in the search results and make it easier
introduced many public school landmarked Central Library. for researchers to obtain items.
students to their first live theater Finally, we will raise awareness
experience. Productions including Highlight the borough’s about Brooklyn’s past through
Cool Rainforest Connections rich history and the work rotating exhibits in our branches
and The City’s Green Book are of contemporary Brooklyn and discussion groups.
staged by professional theater authors and writers While we take care to preserve
groups, including Hampstead and catalog the past, we must also
Stage Company, Plaza Theatrical As a 115-year-old institution track current trends and events.
Productions, Wildlife Theater, with ties to every Brooklyn In 2013, BPL will expand the
and International Theater Arts neighborhood, BPL is at the Brooklyn Collection to document
Institute, a group that often intersection of the borough’s storied Brooklyn’s contemporary culture.
presents in a bilingual format. past and its exciting future. We BPL will collect unique and notable
BPL will also expand its creative believe that the Library should work created in Brooklyn, as well
arts programming for older and can be a leading source of as ephemera and photos. These
adults through a partnership information about Brooklyn, items will supplement the Brooklyn
with the non-profit Lifetime whether patrons are looking for Collection’s existing concentration
Arts. From quilting and choral nineteenth-century maps of their on nineteenth and early twentieth
singing to drawing and writing neighborhoods, images of a 1950s century historical materials.
short stories, our programs help Brooklyn actress or books by
patrons develop new artistic emerging Brooklyn authors.
skills, express themselves The Library’s Brooklyn
and interact with others. Collection brings local history
BPL will continue to provide to life through maps, photos,
invaluable humanities events for ephemera and the historical
the borough. These efforts will Brooklyn Daily Eagle newspaper.
30 Brooklyn Public Library
31. Brooklyn Connections
Since 2006, BPL’s Brooklyn Connections program has helped middle- and
high-school students develop important research and analytical skills while
learning about the borough’s history. Students in English Language Arts and
Social Studies classes complete a standards-based local history project,
receive tours of the Brooklyn Collection (BPL’s special collection of Brooklyn-
related historical documents) and enjoy direct access to the Collection’s original
archival materials. Connections staff members visit participating public schools
to provide in-class instruction and deliver document reproductions tailored to
class projects. Additionally, students can receive after-school project assistance
at the Brooklyn Collection. Teachers enjoy one-on-one planning sessions with
staff and have the opportunity to attend professional development workshops.
Brooklyn Connections has experienced significant growth—from serving 20 classes in 2007–2008 to 48 classes in 2011–2012.
Since its inception, the program has reached nearly 4,000 students in grades 6 through 12, including students with special needs
and English Language Learners. The initiative serves low-income and Title 1 schools, where 40% or more of students receive free
or reduced lunch. Over the past five years, Brooklyn Connections has helped thousands of young Brooklynites develop a greater
understanding of local history and build the critical-thinking skills needed for lifelong academic success.
Become a lead the publishing industry. Also have access to elsewhere. When
supporter of Brooklyn’s in 2013, the Library will open planning exhibitions, the Library
creative community a writer’s room; this will be the will continue to give priority to the
first step in creating a writer- work of Brooklyn-based artists,
Brooklyn is one of the country’s in-residence program that will providing many new creative
preeminent creative hubs, a place enable Brooklyn writers to work professionals with the opportunity
where artists, writers, designers in dedicated, quiet spaces. to display their work. Through
and performers come to live and We will leverage our extensive programming and events, the
work. The Library is committed physical plant to establish Library will champion the work
to expanding opportunities environments that can best of our borough’s many talented
for professional development, support the creative community. individuals and help foster the
collaboration and public In 2013, through a partnership development of Brooklyn’s next
engagement for the borough’s with Spaceworks (a nonprofit generation of artists, writers,
creative community. organization that creates long- performers and designers.
In 2012, the Library began to term and affordable artist
deepen its support of local writers rehearsal space), we will dedicate
by launching the Espresso Book underutilized space at our
Machine as a self-publishing Williamsburgh and Red Hook
resource at the Central Library. branches for use by local artists.
In 2013, the Library will This innovative program will
create an advisory board that connect our patrons to new creative
includes local authors to help resources while breathing new
guide the development of new life into underutilized branches.
services. We will also seek out At the Shelby White and Leon
other organizations to enhance Levy Information Commons, we
programming at our libraries will offer advanced computer
by providing writing workshops software and digital design tools
and classes on how to navigate that artists and designers may not
Brooklyn Public Library 31
33. Present a welcoming and inclusive environment
One of Brooklyn’s greatest strengths is its diversity. According to the 2010 American
Community Survey, more than 37% of Brooklyn residents were born outside of the
United States4 and nearly 46% of Brooklynites over the age of five speak a language
other than English at home5. By providing English classes and conversation groups, as
well as materials in more than 126 languages, Brooklyn Public Library is a source of
support and information for new Americans. Yet despite our progress, there is still
much work to be done. By expanding our bilingual programming, tailoring our services
to meet specific community needs and improving the entire system’s capacity to
communicate with speakers of other languages, we can continue to be a vital resource
for our borough’s newcomers.
The Library also strives to meet the needs of Brooklyn’s emerging communities,
including veterans, persons experiencing homelessness, people with disabilities, and
incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, among others. By creating new
partnerships with social service providers, strengthening our referral network, providing
staff training and creating new ties within Brooklyn’s communities, we will make a
difference for all Brooklynites.
Key Initiatives
2012: Partner with the
2013: Launch outreach
2012: Provide four Center for Court Innovation 2013: Launch program
services to support senior
language translations to allow parolees to meet to help immigrants find
citizens, immigrants
on BPL online catalog with caseworkers in their skilled jobs and careers
and emerging communities
local communities
2014: Fully train all
2013: Expand Lifetime 2017: Fully implement
staff on emerging
Arts program for older language access plan
communities and
adults across the borough across BPL
referral processes
Brooklyn Public Library 33
34. Strengthen library Career Library will spearhead These individual efforts will
accessibility for immigrants a new program to help prepare lead to fully implementing an
and connect immigrants with institution-wide language access
All patrons, regardless of the jobs and careers that meet their and immigrant services plan
language(s) they speak, should be abilities—particularly for those in 2017. This plan will include
able to enjoy a high level of service who have not been able to apply establishing an expanded
at local libraries. Brooklyn is now overseas training and credentials immigrant service volunteer
one of the most diverse counties into meaningful jobs in the United program, installing signage at
in the nation. According to 2010 States. By 2015, we will increase branches in multiple languages
American Community Survey the number of English for Speakers and providing interpretation and
data, over 948,000 of Brooklyn’s of Other Language (ESOL) groups translation tools to employees.
residents are foreign-born6, and that we host to accommodate By being mindful of the needs of
over one million residents—46% the top ten foreign languages immigrants and new learners of
of the borough—speak a language spoken in Brooklyn: Spanish, English, we can ensure our libraries
other than English at home7. Over Chinese, Russian, French Creole, reflect the diversity of our borough
583,000 residents are considered Yiddish, Polish, Italian, Bengali, and inspire all Brooklynites to
limited English proficient8. Arabic and Urdu. Additionally, achieve their goals.
A centralized plan of service we will identify ways to make our
for immigrant communities will existing programs more relevant Provide programming and
enable our staff members to better to speakers of other languages and services for older adults
meet the needs of patrons. Our immigrants, including First Five
immigrant services initiative Years programming for children, Brooklyn has the largest
began in 2012, when BPL began literacy classes, and business and concentration of older adults in
offering a robust online catalog career resources. New York City, with nearly 12%
with translations in Spanish, of our population over the age of
Chinese, Russian and French, and 659. With an age span of nearly
in multilingual Common Core three decades, this population has
collections. In 2013, BPL’s Business varying language, mobility, income,
capabilities and needs. BPL will
continue to develop and strengthen
Lifetime Arts its programs and outreach to this
population. In 2012, we began a
Brooklyn has the largest concentration of older adults in New York City, a segment partnership with Lifetime Arts to
that will continue to grow and challenge public service providers. Understanding introduce artist-led instructional
and successfully responding to the needs of older adult customers will be critical arts programs for older adults, and
to BPL’s future success. Partnering with Lifetime Arts has been a positive step in received strong customer and staff
improving service to this constituency. The sequential arts programming series, feedback. In 2013, we will expand
which includes social interaction opportunities, is building the Library’s capacity to these programs to additional
deliver and sustain meaningful instructional arts programs for an aging population. locations and provide related staff
Programs included quilting, poetry, drawing, collage, painting and singing, among development. By 2016, we will
others, for the 55+ population. increase our Books by Mail service
to homebound seniors from its
In FY12, a series of 12 arts programs with more than 100 individual sessions took 200 current participants to 600.
place in 10 branches, Central Library and senior centers across the borough. Most importantly, we will conduct
Through this effort, BPL facilitated engagement among older Brooklynites, some of extensive outreach efforts to ensure
whom lead very isolated lives. The programs were well attended and positively that older adults are aware of the
reviewed by the participants. Lifetime Arts has secured a prestigious IMLS grant that programs and services available
will support additional programs at BPL in FY13. BPL will continue to expand this at BPL.
worthwhile program across the borough.
34 Brooklyn Public Library
36. Persons by English Language Ability
Brooklyn, 2010
Limited
English
Proficient
Speaks (LEP)
language 578,771
other than 25% Speaks
English English at
at home Home
1,250,028
English
47% 53%
Proficient
1,082,443
503,672
22%
Total Persons Ages 5 and Over: 2,332,471
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010 American Community Survey-Public Use Microdata Sample
Population Division-New York City Department of City Planning
Limited English Proficient Population
by Language Spoken at Home in
New York City and Brooklyn, 2010
New York City Brooklyn
Overall LEP 1,816,599 Overall LEP 578,771
Percent Percent
Total 100.0 Total 100.0
Spanish 50.4 Spanish 35.1
Chinese* 16.5 Chinese* 20.6
Russian 6.3 Russian 15.0
French Creole 2.7 French Creole 5.5
Korean 2.6 Yiddish 4.9
Italian 2.2 Polish 2.5
Bengali 2.1 Italian 2.2
Polish 1.6 Bengali 2.1
Yiddish 1.6 Arabic 2.1
Arabic 1.5 Urdu 1.2
* Includes Chinese, Cantonese, Mandarin and Formosan
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010 American Community Survey-Public Use Microdata Sample
Population Division-New York City Department of City Planning
36 Brooklyn Public Library
