Assembly Resolution No. 981

BY: M. of A. Rajkumar

COMMEMORATING the 100th Anniversary of the
Woodhaven Library on January 7, 2024

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
cultural institutions that contribute to the rich history and culture of
our Great State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Woodhaven Library, celebrated
on Sunday, January 7, 2024; and

WHEREAS, The Woodhaven Library in Queens, New York, is a beloved
community institution that has served the residents of Woodhaven and
surrounding neighborhoods for a century; and

WHEREAS, The library has played an indispensable role in promoting
literacy, knowledge, and lifelong learning, instilling a love of reading
and empowering residents to make informed decisions; and

WHEREAS, The Woodhaven Library has been a hub for diverse
educational, cultural, and recreational activities, offering crucial
resources, programs, and services that have brought people from
different backgrounds together; and

WHEREAS, The library has hosted its own prekindergarten program,
fostering new generations of scholars; and

WHEREAS, Through the assistance offered by Woodhaven Library,
children have excelled in school, immigrants have learned English, job
seekers have found their dream careers, and people of all ages have
gained computer literacy; and

WHEREAS, Plans for the Woodhaven Library began in 1922, when the
Queens Public Library determined that the burgeoning community of
Woodhaven needed a larger library in order to meet demand; and

WHEREAS, Initially told there were insufficient funds for a new
library, Woodhaven residents diligently campaigned until they secured
funding from the City of New York and the Queens Public Library's
endowment from Andrew Carnegie-a testament to the dedication of
Woodhaven residents and their love for their neighborhood that continues
to this day; and

WHEREAS, Construction of the Woodhaven Library began with the
community coming together for a cornerstone laying ceremony on July 7,
1923, and the Woodhaven Library opened its doors on January 7, 1924 at
3:00 P.M.; and

WHEREAS, The Woodhaven Library is truly a homegrown institution: its
architect, Robert F. Schirmer, and builder, Henry Berau of Berau Fraser,
were both Woodhaven residents; and

WHEREAS, The 100th Anniversary of the Woodhaven Library presents an
opportunity to recognize and celebrate the library's rich history,
highlight its outstanding contributions to the community, and inspire
future generations to continue the legacy; and

WHEREAS, Steeped in a proud and distinguished history, the Woodhaven
Library may take just pride in its purposeful growth, as it looks
forward to continuing to serve the educational, cultural and
intellectual needs of the community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Woodhaven Library; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Woodhaven Library, the President of the Queens Public
Library, and various institutions in Woodhaven.