A ribbon cutting for the renovations of the Long Branch Free public Library was held Feb. 20 attended by local and state officials. The renovations at the Long Branch Free Public Library include a new History Room and Teen Room.
The Long Branch Free Public Library, originally built more than 100 years ago, just completed a $6.2 million renovation project which features the blending of its historic Carnegie heritage with modern enhancements.
At the ribbon cutting Thurs., Feb. 20 hundreds attended to celebrate the new look. The renovation project made possible by a $6.2 million matching grant, funded from the New Jersey Library Construction Bond Act and the City of Long Branch.
“We celebrated not just the cutting of a ribbon but the realization of a long-held vision. Over 13 years ago, we embarked on a journey to create a library that would stand among the best in the nation, and the completion of this project fulfills that vision. This beautifully renovated Carnegie building symbolizes our commitment to the future while honoring the rich history of Long Branch,” Library Director Tonya Garcia said. With its deep legacy and purpose, this library belongs to the people of Long Branch. We are grateful to them for voting overwhelmingly to support the NJ Library Construction Bond Act, and for making the ribbon-cutting ceremony a memorable event.”
Mayor John Pallone said Andrew Carnegie believed in harnessing the power of imagination to make dreams come true.
“We honor his legacy with this beautifully renovated library,” he said. “But it is just a building until we add the most important part- the people. From the dedicated staff and volunteers who keep it running to all the patrons who use its services, you are the ones who bring our library to life and give it purpose.”
The event opened with speeches from Library Board of Trustees President Roberto Ferragina, poetry from Long Branch Poet Laureate Emanuel DiPasquale, and comments from Library Director and the mayor.
Guests enjoyed beverages, hors d’oeuvres from Falco’s Catering, food from Galindo’s Kitchen, music from the Rose Trio, and commemorative gifts for library cardholders.
Originally constructed over a century ago, the building had endured significant flooding, underscoring the urgent need for waterproofing and system upgrades. During maintenance in the library’s oldest section, the removal of a drop ceiling revealed long-hidden architectural details from the original Garcia uncovered these forgotten elements, which had been concealed for decades.
The renovated space showcases both historical preservation and modern functionality. An ocean-themed arched glass entryway welcomes visitors, reflecting the library’s coastal setting and historic Carnegie design. Imposing indoor columns, a vaulted ceiling, and a historic color palette featuring the signature Long Branch Green highlight the space’s timeless beauty. The removal of drop ceilings has uncovered original windows, allowing natural light to flood the space. Handcrafted oak shelves in the Carnegie wing create an inviting atmosphere. Elegant pendulum lighting replaces outdated fluorescent fixtures, adding a contemporary yet classic touch that echoes the original design.
Beyond aesthetic improvements, the renovation included significant infrastructure upgrades. The library now features energy-efficient lighting, a new three-zone HVAC system, and extensive waterproofing. A new emergency generator ensures continuous service to the community. Additional spaces, including a Local History Room, Teen Room, Huddle Rooms for private study, and a Sensory Room for children, have been added to enhance accessibility and engagement.
The library traces its origins to a private reading room established in the 19th century. It was formally incorporated as a free public library in 1916 with a $30,000 grant from steel magnate Andrew Carnegie, who dedicated the final decades of his life to funding public libraries across the United States and beyond.
This extensive renovation was made possible through the combined efforts of the New Jersey State Library, the City of Long Branch, the Long Branch Public Library Board of Trustees, and the voters who strongly supported the NJ Library Construction Bond Act.
For more information contact the library at 732-222-3900 or email longbranchpubliclibrary@gmail.com
