DeKalb Library
🏢 Brooklyn Public Library — Brooklyn, New York
DeKalb Library
One of Brooklyn's finest Carnegie branches, DeKalb Library has anchored the Bushwick neighborhood since opening on February 11, 1905 — its soaring Classical Revival facade and original high-ceilinged reading rooms still intact after more than a century of 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 | Closed |
Hours may vary on holidays.
📍 Location & Contact
Address: 790 Bushwick Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11221
Phone: 7184553898
Website: bklynlibrary.org
📖 About DeKalb Library
<p>Designed by Brooklyn architect William B. Tubby in the Classical Revival style, DeKalb Library was one of the first branches built in Brooklyn using Andrew Carnegie's landmark philanthropic gift. The free-standing brick and limestone building features double-height windows and a rounded rear apse that creates a spacious two-story book stack area — hallmarks of Tubby's five Carnegie designs for Brooklyn. The building was designated a New York City Individual Landmark in May 2004 (LP-2054), recognizing its architectural integrity and many surviving original interior features. Today it serves the diverse Bushwick community with bilingual English and Spanish collections, public computers, and a dedicated auditorium for community programs.</p>
⭐ What makes this branch special
- Carnegie branch opened February 11, 1905 — one of Brooklyn's first
- Designed by William B. Tubby in Classical Revival style; NYC Individual Landmark since 2004
- Original high-ceilinged reading rooms and brick-and-limestone facade preserved
- Auditorium hosts community programs including Story Play for children ages 0–5
- Bilingual English and Spanish book collection serving Bushwick's Latino community
📱 Free with a Brooklyn Public Library Card
Any New York State resident can get a BPL card free and unlock:
📍 More Brooklyn Public Library branches
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is the DeKalb Library building a historic landmark?
Yes. The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission designated the DeKalb Library building an Individual Landmark in May 2004 (Designation List 353, LP-2054), recognizing its architectural significance as one of Brooklyn's original Carnegie library buildings.
Does DeKalb Library have an auditorium for events?
Yes. The branch has a dedicated auditorium that hosts public programs, including Story Play sessions for children ages 0–5. Check the BPL events calendar at bklynlibrary.org for upcoming programs at the DeKalb Auditorium.
Does DeKalb Library offer notary services?
Yes. Notary services are available at DeKalb Library by appointment. Contact the branch at (718) 455-3898 to schedule.
✓ Hours & details last verified from official sources in October 2026.
