Melrose Public Library reopens with major improvements
The Melrose is open every day, except Sundays, from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m.
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The doors of the Melrose Public Library are officially open after a four-year renovation.
A blaze tore through the third floor of the library back in the 1950s, leaving the entire level of the building out of commission since. Those damages, mixed with wear and tear, lead local leaders to push for renovations.
A $167 million plan from the city to upgrade five public libraries began in 2021. A total of $34 million of those funds went toward the Melrose Library.
"We're not just talking about books, you know, we're talking about technology access, access to Wi-Fi, access to computers. It also has a safe space for our adolescents," said Rafael Salamanca Jr.
From teen centers to education program, ADA accessibility and English language instruction, organizers say the upgrades were made to create an impact on the Bronx's needs.
"It's a look into the future. Great opportunity, education, culture and recreation... coming together from our youngest babies in early childcare to our oldest in high school," said Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson.
The Melrose Library is open every day, except Sundays, from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m.
The Hunts Point Library is the next library set to open by the end of January.
