By Monica Malpass and Friends of the Bronxville Public Library

Nov. 8, 2023: There’s a real buzz about the new outdoor space soon to be constructed at the Bronxville Public Library. Picture a gorgeous expanded patio where you can sip coffee with friends, enjoy storytime with your kids, or take a free library painting class en plain air! 

It all started with a questionnaire. Members of the community were asked what they want from their Bronxville Library… the overwhelming response? More user-friendly outdoor space! 

So Library Trustees and members of the Friends of the Bronxville Public Library (FOBPL), a fundraising support group, came up with a strategic plan.

It’s a $750,000 project to triple the size of the back patio, add Wi-Fi, install seats for 70 people, add enhanced lighting, better drainage, and lovely landscaping, plus a bike rack & stroller parking. The lush trees and beautiful lawn will remain largely intact.

Several generous donors jumped on board immediately, including Donald and Georgia Gogel, Leah and Clayton Pope, and the Doheny family. 

“Bronxville Public library is definitely one of the jewels in the Bronxville crown,” Deidre Doheny said. “Our family is looking forward to the addition of this beautiful outdoor space… We cannot wait to see this plan come to fruition.”

The Village, NY State and the FOBPL each made large donations as part of a public-private partnership as well. Now there is $500,000 in hand. A top architect has put the finishing touches on a spectacular rendering and groundbreaking is scheduled for December. The project is slated to be finished by June 2024.

But the remaining $250,000 is still needed. This fall the FOBPL and Trustees publicly kicked off the BPL Outdoors Campaign with a Cocktail Launch Party.  Dozens of supporters enjoyed unique cocktails, wine, and hors d’oeuvres as they learned more about it.

Bronxville Mayor Mary Marvin was there. “The entire Board of Trustees is galvanized to be working with…the Friends of the Public Library Board, as this partnership has not only been seamless from the very beginning, but a complete joy. I feel honored to be part of the team,” Marvin says.

FOBPL President Carolyn Mattson adds that this will be a breathtaking new space for generations to come. “I think everyone should be able to have a beautiful place to relax, gather, and enjoy Mother Nature. Our lives are so busy these days with constant distractions with the phone and life. This outdoor space will allow our community the opportunity to reconnect and enjoy all the offerings of our library.” Mattson says.

Trustees Board Member Helen Knapp agrees. “This project will create a unique, landscaped patio space for people to enjoy a book outside…gather with friends for a book club, or other programs the library provides. “

Christina Krettecos is a Trustee who spearheaded the effort. She is thrilled to see the project come to fruition  after two years in the planning. “This outdoor space will give new life to the Four Corners of Bronxville , while keeping with the Historic tone and character of our village,” Krettecos says.

“The sky is the limit for the many activities and events this space will inspire, “Margaret Mager Board Trustee President adds. 

The Friends of the Bronxville Public library have traditionally stepped up to pay for programming and extra expenses not covered by the annual budget. Other major projects already completed include overhauling the HVAC, renovating the Teen Center and updating the Yeager auditorium. 

This new Legacy project will enhance the world class library even more. Library Director Greg Wirszyla, says “Due to the enhancements brought about by our friends at FOBPL we have made the Library Journal Star Library List 6 of the last 7 years. If there is a sudden mid-year want or opportunity, we know we can turn to the Friends.”

But the Friends need your help too. You can write a check to the Library in care of the Friends of the Bronxville Public Library or use this URL Code.

Thank you for your support!

By Monica Malpass and Friends of the Bronxville Public Library