Queens Public Library Celebrates 125 Years With 'Love Letters'

ASTORIA, QUEENS — A collection of materials dedicated to the love of Queens is growing in honor of the 125th anniversary of the borough's public library.

“Love Letters to Queens” is a collection of books, music and movies set in or about Queens. The selection, which will continue to grow throughout the year, also highlights creators from Queens — like Akwafina and Ibram X. Kendi — whose work members can check out through one of the Queens Public Library’s 62 branches.

“As we mark the 125th anniversary of Queens Public Library, we honor the people we serve in the most diverse place in the country and uphold our commitment to inclusion, equity, and free access to information and opportunity for all,” said QPL President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott.

The library’s other anniversary initiatives include an interactive community archiving project, known as “QPL Stories Project,” and quasquicentennial-themed lists of book recommendations and “bucket list” library experiences — all listed in groups of 125 and assembled by staff.

Since the library’s first branch in Hunter’s Point opened its doors on August 3, 1896, the QPL has expanded to include its dozens of branches, as well as adult learning centers and teen centers, a technology lab, and a universal pre-kindergarten. Its many virtual services — including remote printing and a business incubator series — have helped support the public during the pandemic.

For more information about the anniversary initiatives, click here.