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By Surina Venkat

The George Bruce Library on 518 W 125th St. held its grand reopening on Monday, marking the end of nearly five months of closure due to renovations. Its reopening drew West Harlem residents of all ages, with many expressing appreciation for the library’s new refurbished features.

“I think it’s fantastic because it was shabby before,” Erica Pierce, a longtime patron of George Bruce Library, said of the renovations.

According to a New York Public Library press release from Kimberly Spring, the associate director for the West Manhattan Neighborhood Library Network, the George Bruce Library temporarily closed to facilitate building improvements, including replacing the branch’s flooring. With the reopening, nearby residents can now once again check out books and take part in library programming, including English conversation groups, homework help, and career and college pathways workshops.

“We would like to thank all of our patrons for their patience and understanding during the temporary closure,” Spring wrote to New York Public Library mail subscribers last month. “We look forward to seeing you in a few weeks!”

In the press release, Spring thanked New York State Assembly member Daniel O’Donnell, Mayor Eric Adams, Speaker Adrienne Adams, and District 7 City Council member Shaun Abreu, CC ’14, for their support of George Bruce Library’s renovations.

“I grew up working for the NYPL in Morningside Heights, where I stocked shelves and helped older neighbors access technology in our city’s libraries,” Abreu wrote in a statement to Spectator. “I know our entire community is relieved that George Bruce Library is re-opening its doors—along with its books, programs, and services—for all of Upper Manhattan to enjoy.”

“Libraries are at the heart of our city’s civic engagement and cultural enrichment—but that’s all currently threatened by mayoral budget cuts,” Abreu wrote. “I will be fighting harder than ever for a full restoration of funding to our city’s libraries. It’s what New Yorkers want, and it’s what New Yorkers deserve.”