Ryder Library
🏢 Brooklyn Public Library — Brooklyn, New York
Ryder Library
Ryder Library returned to Bensonhurst on December 16, 2025, after a three-year, $7 million renovation that gave the 1970 branch a completely rebuilt interior, new solar panels, a dedicated teen tech room, and — for the first time in its history — Sunday service.
🕑 Library Hours
| Monday | 10 AM – 6 PM |
| Tuesday | 1 PM – 8 PM |
| Wednesday | 10 AM – 6 PM |
| Thursday | 10 AM – 8 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM – 6 PM |
| Saturday | 10 AM – 5 PM |
| Sunday | 1 PM – 5 PM |
Hours may vary on holidays.
📍 Location & Contact
Address: 5902 23rd Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11204
Phone: 7183312962
Website: bklynlibrary.org
📖 About Ryder Library
<p>Ryder Library opened in April 1970 on 23rd Avenue in Bensonhurst, designed by architect Arthur Witthoefft and built by the City of New York. The low-profile building features two open courts with areas for plantings, and its adult and children's seating areas run the length of the interior. From its earliest years, the branch ranked among the highest-circulation libraries in the Brooklyn Public Library system, its primary users being children and school-aged families, followed closely by older adults. In May 2022 the branch closed for what became a three-year renovation led by architects Jennifer Sage and Peter Coombe: the $7 million project replaced the roof, installed a new HVAC system and solar panels, and completely rebuilt the interior with new shelving, furniture, lighting, floors, and dedicated spaces for teens and children. The branch reopened with a ribbon cutting on December 16, 2025, and began Sunday service — a first for Ryder — in 2026.</p>
⭐ What makes this branch special
- Reopened December 16, 2025 after a $7 million, three-year renovation
- Newly added Sunday hours (1–5 PM) — a first in the branch's 55-year history
- Solar panels, new HVAC, and energy-efficient windows installed during 2022–2025 renovation
- Brand-new dedicated teen tech room and separate children's area
- Consistently one of Brooklyn Public Library's highest-circulation branches since 1970
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
When did Ryder Library reopen after its renovation?
Ryder Library reopened on December 16, 2025, following a three-year, $7 million renovation that replaced the roof, installed solar panels and a new HVAC system, and completely rebuilt the interior with new furniture, shelving, lighting, and dedicated teen and children's spaces.
Is Ryder Library open on Sundays?
Yes — and it is a first. Beginning in 2026, Ryder Library is open on Sundays from 1 PM to 5 PM, a new addition that came with the branch's December 2025 reopening after renovation.
What architect designed the original Ryder Library building?
The original 1970 building was designed by Arthur Witthoefft and built by the City of New York. The 2022–2025 renovation was led by architects Jennifer Sage and Peter Coombe under the NYC Department of Design and Construction.
✓ Hours & details last verified from official sources in October 2026.