Culture & Entertainment Neighborhood Planning Parks & Public Spaces

Charleston Library

Location: Staten Island

Project Status: Completed

A Community Resource

NYCEDC is spearheading the design and construction of the Charleston Library, part of the New York Public Library system. This is a sustainable, state-of-the-art community resource that will serve the South Shore of Staten Island. Located adjacent to the brand-new Fairview park, the library will feature:

Flexible community spaces for a variety of uses
A children’s room with computers, storytime area, stroller parking, and bathroom
A teens’ room with computers and lounge space
An adult reading room with computers, seats, park views
On-site programs, classes, and workshops for all ages
Multiple public restrooms and a water fountain
An entry plaza with bench seating
The artwork installation Curiouser by Mark Reigelman, commissioned by the Department of Cultural Affairs Percent for Art program

We know Staten Island loves its libraries… we are excited to provide a new branch that will offer countless opportunities to our future patrons and strengthen the Charleston community.

Anthony W. Marx

President, New York Public Library

Spacious and modern Charleston Library with long white tables, wooden chairs, blue cushioned seating, and rows of bookshelves. Pendant lights hang from the ceiling, and a few people are visible at the far end of the room.

The planning process solicited public feedback through surveys and meetings, ensuring that the final designs met longstanding needs for new amenities and public resources in this fast-growing community.

Milestone

10K

Square foot building with LEED Gold Certification pending

A Model of Sustainability

The library is designed with sustainability as a top priority. Its enhanced insulation, low-energy lighting, and solar panels on the roof set a model for energy efficiency—it will be the first net- zero energy library in New York City, meaning that the building creates more energy than it uses.