LONG ISLAND CITY, NY – Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris on February 11 called on the owners of Savanna Realty to extend the library’s lease until a permanent home is secured. Without an extension of their lease, the library is slated to close their doors to the public on Saturday, February 15.
“This library is a critical asset to Long Island City and this company should be able to extend their lease, for even a few more months, to facilitate continuity of services while a permanent home is found,” said Senate Deputy Leader Gianaris. “The Court Square Library plays an important role for a growing neighborhood and I will do everything I can to ensure its continuing presence in our community in a permanent home.”
Senator Gianaris has been working with Queens Public Library leaders and Court Square community advocates to keep the library’s doors open longer. Through Senator Gianaris’ pressure, the library received an earlier extension through this month preventing their initially planned 2019 closure.

Senator Gianaris’ full letter appears below:

February 11, 2020
Brian Reiver, Managing Director
Savanna
430 Park Avenue, 12^th Floor
New York, New York 10022

Dear Mr. Reiver,

I write urging you to extend the lease of your building at 25-01 Jackson Avenue with the Queens Public Library through December 31, 2020. This library is a critical asset to our community and cannot afford for it to cease operations just this weekend.

With more time, we will be able to partner with neighbors, community groups, and various government agencies to find a long term home for the library. Extending the lease from its current March 31 termination will allow for continuity of service for library patrons who rely on this facility.

I urge you to consider this short lease extension. This library is a public good and the neighborhood deserves continued access to this important resource.

Please do not hesitate to reach out directly should you have any questions.

Sincerely,
Senator Michael Gianaris
Deputy Majority Leader