Late Library

Dear Editor:

A year ago, I tried to find out why the Seaside branch of the Queens Public Library (QPL) would be closed for a FULL YEAR for a new HVAC installation. At the time, I said that I did not think any other business, school, or nonprofit would close for a full year for such work. Despite asking the library, local politicians, and local newspapers for an explanation, I heard nothing satisfactory, other than bureaucratic responses indicating that it was being done by the NYC Department of Design and Construction, not QPL, and outlining all the phases of the project.

Here we are a year later. There are no outward indications of daily work being done and no signs posted about when it will re-open. Recent information from Councilperson Ariola’s office is that it is now scheduled to re-open in September, which I have no confidence will happen.

I was pleased to read a lot about the new mobile library being made available to Breezy Point. But here in Rockaway, we continue to lack a nearby library to use. I would love to see pressure applied by our elected officials and others to check on the status of this work and to ensure it is completed quickly. I would also like to see our local newspapers report on this situation and get some answers re: status and progress. Thank you.

Jane Canner