Brooklyn Public Library has unveiled plans to renovate Pacific Library, Brooklyn’s first Carnegie library, opened in 1904. The project, designed by Safdie Architects with AYON Studio, will restore historic features while updating the branch for modern library use.
The renovation is said to increase public space by 34 percent and make all four levels fully accessible.
Plans include a new accessible entrance, elevator and bathrooms, as well as expanded areas for children and young adults, classrooms, flexible programming, adult learning, reading and community activities.
The project will preserve key elements of the historic building, including its cone-shaped roof, skylight, limestone detailing and windows. A new sunken garden and glass pavilion will bring more natural light into the lower level and strengthen the connection between the library and outdoor space.
"Pacific Library has served the borough for more than 120 years, offering Brooklynites access to knowledge, opportunity and growth," said Linda E. Johnson, president and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library. "Now, we are taking another important step toward ensuring the Library continues to serve the community for another century."
Building systems will also be upgraded, including heating, ventilation and air conditioning, insulation and acoustics. The project is designed to pursue LEED Gold certification.
The renovation follows community engagement that began in 2019 and continued in 2025, with patrons, neighbors, Friends of Pacific Library and staff contributing ideas about the branch’s future. Those discussions helped shape the renovation’s focus on accessibility, additional public space, programming and historic preservation.
The project is funded through the Gowanus Neighborhood Plan, city and borough funding, the former Brooklyn Heights Library redevelopment and other public sources.
BPL says the project is currently in the design phase. Pacific Library is expected to close in summer 2027 for construction and reopen in fall 2029, although the schedule could change as the project moves through approvals and construction.
