The John C. Hart Memorial Library will begin a major renovation of its main public area in September.
The library’s main adult area will close early, at 5 p.m., on September 28, following the conclusion of the Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale. The entire library will be closed on September 29 and 30 as the interior renovation begins. Temporary “mini library” services will begin October 1 in the Community Room.
The project will improve service, accessibility, comfort, and the overall patron experience. The first comprehensive renovation of the building’s central library space in nearly 40 years is funded largely through a matching grant from New York State Aid for Library Construction.
“After listening to patrons through multiple surveys, the library is investing in a more comfortable, welcoming, and functional interior,” said Library Director Yvonne Cech. “The renovation will replace worn flooring, streamline service through a single, easier-to-navigate service desk, create a dedicated teen-friendly area, and add more comfortable seating throughout the building.”
“This project reflects what our community said it needs most: a library that is easier to use, more inviting to stay in, and better suited to readers, students, families, teens, and lifelong learners,” Cech said. “You spoke. We listened. This renovation is an important investment in the future of the library.”
During the estimated five- to six-week initial renovation, the Community Room will offer a limited browsing collection, circulation services, and a reference station. Some services, public spaces, collections, and equipment will be temporarily unavailable or limited as staff work to provide essential services. The Children’s Room is expected to remain open for most of the renovation because it is not included in this phase of work.
The library encourages patrons to visit before the closure to borrow books, movies, and other materials to enjoy during the renovation. Due dates for items borrowed before and during the renovation will be extended, and fines will be suspended. Visit the library’s website for details.
Select virtual programs will continue, and some ongoing in-person programs—including Mahjongg, Canasta and Quilting—will be offered at the Jefferson Valley Mall, which has made temporary space available to the library. Updated program information, including story times and other children’s activities, will be posted on the library’s online calendar.
“Unfortunately, the annual Haunted House will not be held this year because of the renovation,” Cech said. “In its place, we are planning a special Winter Wonderland program later this winter. Additional details will be announced in the coming months. We are grateful for the community’s patience as we complete this work.”
While modernization work will continue through at least the end of 2026, the library expects to reopen after the main interior work is complete, by the end of October, subject to construction progress.
For the latest updates, visit yorktownlibrary.org, follow the library on social media at @yorktownlibrary, or contact the Reference Desk at 914-245-5262, ext. 727.