Brentwood Public Library Overview
The Brentwood Public Library stands as a cornerstone of the Brentwood community, providing vital resources and services that enrich the lives of its residents. Its mission is to foster a lifelong love of learning by offering accessible and responsive services and resources designed to inform, educate, and enhance the community experience. This comprehensive guide will delve into the library's history, services, operating hours, contact information, borrowing policies, community engagement, and frequently asked questions, providing a complete picture of this valuable community asset.
History and Background
The Brentwood Public Library's story begins in 1937, a humble start in the cloakroom of the old firehouse situated on First Avenue. This modest beginning reflects the community's early commitment to literacy and access to information. Over the decades, the library evolved, reflecting the growing needs of the community. The 1950s and 1960s saw the library move to increasingly larger spaces on First Avenue and later to a building on the southwest corner of Third Avenue and Fourth Street. A significant milestone was reached in 1961 when the library relocated to its new building on the corner of Second Avenue and Fourth Street. This building underwent several expansions over the next two decades to accommodate the increasing number of patrons and resources. The culmination of this growth came in 1986, when Brentwood residents approved the construction of a brand-new, purpose-built library. This new facility, dedicated on April 1, 1990, stands as a testament to the community's enduring commitment to its library.
Key Milestones in the Library’s History and Growth:
- 1937: Library opens in the cloakroom of the old firehouse on First Avenue.
- 1950s-1960s: Library moves to larger facilities on First Avenue and later to Third Avenue and Fourth Street.
- 1961: Relocation to a new building on Second Avenue and Fourth Street; numerous expansions over the next twenty years.
- 1986: Residents approve construction of a new library building.
- 1990: New library building dedicated.
Regulatory Compliance and Licenses
The Brentwood Public Library maintains a strong commitment to professional standards and best practices. Its membership in the Long Island Library Resources Council demonstrates adherence to regional library standards and ensures the library provides high-quality services to its patrons. This affiliation also facilitates collaboration and resource sharing within the broader library network.
Services and Resources
Main Services
- Research and Homework Help: The library offers comprehensive research and homework assistance through its online portal and user-friendly mobile apps. These resources provide access to a wealth of information covering various school subjects, making learning more accessible and convenient.
- Language Learning: Expand your linguistic horizons with the library's interactive language learning database. This database offers step-by-step lesson plans for over 70 languages, providing a valuable resource for both students and lifelong learners.
- National Geographic Archive: Dive into the rich history and diverse content of National Geographic. The library provides access to the complete archive, including magazines, books, maps, images, and videos, offering a captivating journey of exploration and discovery.
- Parenting Support: The library recognizes the importance of strong family units. ParentTV, a comprehensive online resource, offers hundreds of on-demand videos providing support and guidance to parents and caregivers on a wide range of topics, from infancy to the teenage years.
Additional Services
- Museum Passes: Enhance your cultural experiences with museum passes available to library patrons. This provides access to various museums and cultural institutions within the region.
- Public Services: The library offers a range of public services, including research assistance, programming for various age groups, and community events.
Hours and Holidays
Operating Hours
| Day | Hours |
| Sunday | 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM (October - May) |
| Monday | 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
Holiday Hours
- Holiday Hours (9 AM - 5 PM): Columbus Day, President's Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving's Eve
- Selected Sunday Closures: Sunday, December 31, 2023; Sunday, January 14, 2024; Sunday, May 26, 2024
Contact Information
Address and Contact Details
- Address: 34 Second Avenue, Brentwood, NY 11717
- Phone: (631) 273-7883
- Fax Number: (631) 273-7896
- Contact Email: [email protected]
Borrowing Information
Lending Periods and Late Fees
| Materials | Circulation Period | Late Fees Per Day |
| Books | 3 weeks | $0.10 |
| CD Books and Playaways | 3 weeks | $0.10 |
| Music CDs | 3 weeks | $0.10 |
| New Release DVDs | 1 week | $0.10 |
| DVDs | 3 weeks | $0.10 |
| Magazines | 3 weeks | $0.10 |
| Puppets | 3 weeks | $0.10 |
Community Engagement
Friends of the Brentwood Library
The Friends of the Brentwood Library play a crucial role in supporting the library's mission. This dedicated group of citizens actively promotes the library within the community, raising funds and assisting with various library programs. Their involvement is vital in enhancing the library's resources and services.
Conclusion
The Brentwood Public Library is more than just a repository of books; it's a vibrant community hub offering a diverse range of resources and services to support learning, personal growth, and community engagement. From its humble beginnings to its current modern facility, the library has consistently adapted to meet the evolving needs of its patrons, solidifying its position as a valuable asset for the Brentwood community. Its commitment to providing high-quality services and fostering a welcoming environment ensures that it will continue to serve as a vital center for knowledge and connection for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Brentwood Public Library
- Q: What are the library’s operating hours?
A: Weekday hours are 9 AM to 9 PM, Saturday hours are 9 AM to 5 PM. Sunday hours are 12 PM to 4 PM (October - May). Please note that holiday and selected Sunday closures may apply; check the library's website for the most up-to-date information. - Q: How can I contact the library?
A: You can reach the library by phone at (631) 273-7883, fax at (631) 273-7896, or email at [email protected]. The library's website also provides a wealth of information and online resources. - Q: What types of materials can I borrow from the library?
A: The library offers a wide variety of materials for loan, including books, audiobooks, CDs, DVDs, and magazines. Specific borrowing periods and late fees vary depending on the type of material. - Q: Does the library offer programs and events?
A: Yes, the library hosts a variety of programs and events throughout the year for all ages. Check the library's website or contact them directly for information on upcoming events. - Q: How can I become a member of the Friends of the Brentwood Library?
A: Information about joining the Friends of the Brentwood Library can usually be found on the library's website or by contacting the library directly.
References
- [1] https://brentwoodnylibrary.org
- [2] https://nyheritage.org/organizations/brentwood-public-library
- [3] https://www.livebrary.com/library-directory/brentwood-public-library
- [5] https://brentwoodpubliclibrary.org/libraryinfo.html
