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Harlem Library Closed for Repairs After 3-Foot Chunk of Facade Falls Off

By Kathleen Culliton | April 5, 2016 1:10pm
 Countee Cullen Library is closed while the building's facade is repaired.
Countee Cullen Library is closed while the building's facade is repaired.
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DNAinfo/Jeff Mays

HARLEM — The Countee Cullen Library was closed for emergency repairs after a crumbling piece of the facade fell from the 75-year-old building, the New York Public Library announced on Saturday.

No one was injured by the 3-foot-wide piece of debris, but the branch at 104 W. 136th St. was closed on April 1 so the problem could be fixed, officials said.

“The Library’s first priority and chief responsibility is protecting its patrons,” said NYPL Chief Operating Officer Iris Weinshall.

“We know how much this community relies on Countee Cullen, so we will do all we can to ensure its safety and get it reopened. We thank the community for its patience.”

Library officials estimate it will take two weeks for repairs to be completed and the branch to reopen.

This is the third library to close in Harlem this year. Macombs Bridge Library at 2650 Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Blvd. and George Bruce Library at 518 W. 125th St. both closed in February for a $50,000 renovation to their floors.  

The two libraries have since reopened and are ready to receive patrons of the Countee Cullen Library during its repair.