Local Elementary and Middle Schools Add Library

After years of operating without a library, educators at P.S. 9 and M.S. 571 have finally given their students a quiet place to read again.

l announced that it has completed the renovation of its library, a process that began almost three years ago.

Called "The Book Hive," the library will hold 15,000 volumes when fully stocked and, between P.S. 9 and M.S. 571, which both use the campus, will serve up to 800 students.

However, because of a limited budget, the school has been unable to hire a librarian. Until it does, students will have restricted access to the space.

The design was developed by P.S. 9 parent and interior designer Kiki Dennis. Graphic Artist Chip Rich, also a P.S. 9 parent, developed the library's logo, which will be used on bookmarks, bookbags, and stationery. He is also working with P.S. 9 parent Doris Sullivan on developing the library's website.

"It's amazing that these things can come about through parent involvement," said Rebecca Shulman Herz, Book Hive Steering Committee Chairperson and a P.S. 9 parent. "It's a really victory of collaboration among the parents, between the two schools, and people and offices throughout the city."

The library is equipped with a variety of technology, including 9 destkop computers. There are also plans to add 36 laptop computers and a 50-inch flatscreen TV to the library.

The offices of and New York City Councilwoman Letitia James supplied the nearly $500,000 needed to build the 2,150 square foot space.

"Given the current state of our economy, it's amazing that the library was built entirely from public money, not private donations," said M.S. 571 Principal Santosha Troutman.

If you'd like to see the library, the school is hosting a community open house on Wednesday, Nov. 17 at 5:30 p.m.