Last 3 Closed Harlem Library Branches To Reopen In July

HARLEM, NY — The New York Public Library system said Thursday that it will reopen all remaining branches that had been closed to visitors throughout the pandemic — including three in Harlem.

Starting July 6, the Hamilton Grange Library in Hamilton Heights; the Macomb's Bridge Library in Central Harlem and the Aguilar Library in East Harlem will all reopen at near-full service, including unlimited browsing and open seating.

The NYPL closed its entire system last year when COVID-19 hit New York. Starting last July, some locations reopened for grab-and-go service, followed by the addition of browsing and computer use at dozens of branches earlier this spring.

The three branches reopening next month are the only Harlem locations that had stayed shuttered in recent months, even as other ones welcomed back patrons.

Starting in July, all reopened branches will begin to offer public programs and classes and expand hours. Overdue fines remain waived through at least September.

"As we move into our hopeful next chapter, we need libraries to be strong, and doing everything possible to support our communities, including and especially the most vulnerable," NYPL President Anthony W. Marx said in a statement.

"We, like all New Yorkers, have been eagerly moving toward the moment we can more fully restore a familiar, near pre-pandemic service model throughout the system, and are so excited that —thanks to the vaccination progress — that moment is now."