Happy birthday, Lynbrook Library

During the week of October 19th the Lynbrook Library will be celebrating 80 years of service to the community. Here is some of its history:

The history

A Library in Lynbrook was first conceived in 1913 by Orrell I. Hancock. The Lynbrook Free Library opened in Mechanics Hall on Atlantic Avenue.

In 1915 the Library moved across the street to a small building which was small in size but was used only for the library. It was not until 1928 when the taxpayers of Lynbrook voted to purchase half the land necessary for the erection of a library, and to provide $60,000 for the construction of a building. The other half of the land was donated by Mr. Tredwell Carpenter of Rockville Centre.

The cornerstone for the Lynbrook Public Library was laid on March 16,1929, On October 18 of that same year the building opened for citizen inspection. In 1930, the Library received its charter from the Regents of the University of the State of New York.

Celebrating 80 years

To commemorate the opening of this magnificent building, the library board, along with the Friends of the Lynbrook Library, are having a celebration. Beginning on Monday, Oct. 19, through Saturday, Oct. 24, the library will be waiving overdue fines for all Lynbrook Library cardholders. On Tuesday October 20, at 1:30 p.m., see a feel-good time-period family film will be shown.

On October 24, the festivities will begin at 10 a.m., with the ribbon cutting of the new outdoor garden programming area. This area was funded in part with a legislative grant secured by Senator Dean Skelos, and through the efforts of the Friends of the Lynbrook Library.

At 11 a.m., a barbershop quartet will be singing around the library. In the parking lot, there will be a large slide and bouncer for the children to enjoy. Inside tours will be given to anyone curious about the building. The day will draw to a close with a concert at 2:30 by Crazy Henry and Banjo Bob.

On Sunday October 25, the Friends will have a “Library Mini-golf” fundraiser where you can play a round of golf around the library. The inside of the Library will be transformed into a mini-golf course. First tee time will begin at 10 a.m., last tee time will be 4 p.m. The “green fees”

will be $5 for ages 5-12 and $6 ages 13 and up Lynbrook residents and cardholders get $1 off. Spectators, $2 per person.

All proceeds will go to support library programs and services. Food, drinks, and raffles will be available for purchase.

The Friends are currently looking for sponsors of tees, greens, holes, and raffle prizes. Anyone interested should contact Robyn Gilloon, Library Director, at (516) 599-8630.