Operates 61 neighborhood branches plus a Central Library at Grand Army Plaza, providing free access to books, digital resources, programs, and community space for Brooklyn's 2.7 million residents. BPL is an independent nonprofit that receives most of its funding from the city. Libraries are one of the last truly free public spaces. BPL runs free English classes, citizenship coaching, homework help, job training, and computer access -- services that are lifelines for immigrants, kids, job seekers, and anyone who can't afford alternatives.
Spending
$114.4M
221 transactions →
Budget (Adopted)
$144.8M
$94.5M spent
Did You Know
In FY2024, BPL circulated 9.6 million items and welcomed nearly 6 million visits -- more foot traffic than most NYC museums combined. Its 1,500 volunteers contributed 30,000 hours running English conversation groups and citizenship coaching.
| BROOKLYN PUBLIC LIBRARY | $99.8M |
| CDE AIR CONDITIONING CO INC | $5.8M |
| NEW YORK CITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION | $3.5M |
| SASCO CONSTRUCTION SERVICE LLC | $1.1M |
| MPCC CORP | $738.1K |
Headcount
City budget shows $0 payroll because BPL is an independent nonprofit -- the city funds it through a lump appropriation, and BPL employs its own staff (roughly 1,500+ across 61 branches)
Who It Serves
All Brooklyn residents, with outsized impact on immigrants, children, seniors, job seekers, and low-income New Yorkers
Category
Culture & Libraries