New York Construction Report staff writer
Queens Public Library (QPL) President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott and New York City Department of Design and Construction (DDC) Acting Commissioner Eduardo del Valle joined library staff and local officials today to mark the groundbreaking for the new Rego Park Library at 91-41 63rd Drive.
Managed by DDC on behalf of QPL, the $39 million project, which includes demolition of the existing facility and construction of a new building, is expected to be completed by the end of 2028. Stalco Construction Inc. of Hauppauge, N.Y., serves as the general contractor.
Designed by WEISS/MANFREDI under DDC’s Design and Construction Excellence Program, the new three-story, 18,000-square-foot library is set to redefine the neighborhood’s public architecture. The firm’s design emphasizes natural light, spatial connectivity, and a strong street presence, featuring a jade-colored brick façade, tall windows, and double-height reading rooms connected by a grand staircase and elevator.
“The library’s design creates an open, welcoming environment while doubling the size of the current facility and providing modern amenities for all residents,” said Walcott. “I want to congratulate the Department of Design and Construction and WEISS/MANFREDI for delivering a building that will be a landmark for Rego Park for generations to come.”
The building will house three floors of programming: a lower level with a multi-purpose room and teen reading area, a ground floor for adult reading and resources, and a second floor dedicated to children’s programming. A low-maintenance green roof, high-efficiency mechanical systems, on-site stormwater retention, and a highly insulated building envelope are part of the library’s sustainability strategy, which is expected to achieve LEED Silver certification.
“The new Rego Park Library has a remarkable design that will make it a standout in the community, and it features environmental sustainability features to reduce impacts on local utilities,” said Acting Commissioner Eduardo del Valle. “It’s been worth the wait, and the library will serve as a model of design excellence and community benefit.”
The Rego Park branch is consistently one of QPL’s busiest, ranking high in checkouts, visits, and computer use. The expanded facility will provide space for learning, programming, and community engagement, ensuring the library meets the needs of a growing neighborhood for decades to come.
