Eleven more New York City public libraries will be open seven days a week, thanks to funding included in the city’s fiscal year 2026 budget. Made possible by a $2 million investment to expand weekend service, the new Sunday hours begin September 7, bringing the total number of branches open on Sundays to more than 30. The $2 million is part of a broader $15 million increase for the New York Public Library (NYPL), Brooklyn Public Library (BPL), and Queens Public Library (QPL) systems secured in the FY 2026 budget.
Anthony W. Marx, president and CEO of NYPL, praised the expansion of seven-day service as a critical step in meeting the needs of New Yorkers.
“With the city undergoing an affordability crisis and third spaces rapidly declining, libraries are increasingly the answer New Yorkers need,” Marx said. “From working parents on a budget who want enriching experiences for their children to seniors looking to stay engaged with their community, libraries provide a free sanctuary for millions of New Yorkers.”
He added: “Expanding Sunday service to five additional NYPL branches will have a decisively positive impact on the surrounding communities.”
Seven-day service will be available at the following branches starting September 7:
Brooklyn Public Library
New York Public Library
- Mott Haven
- Baychester
- Kingsbridge
- Harlem
- St. George
Queens Public Library
- Glen Oaks
- Hunters Point
- Jackson Heights
- Rochdale Village
QPL will also add a seventh day of service at the Kew Gardens Hills branch, which is already open on Sundays. Starting on September 13, the branch will be open on Saturdays, bringing the total number of QPL locations with seven-day service to eight.
In June, Mayor Eric Adams and City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams announced a $115.9 billion budget agreement for FY26, including $30.7 million in operating support and an extra $2 million to expand seven-day service to 10 more branches.
This funding marked a reversal of the mayor’s FY24 decision to eliminate Sunday service at city libraries due to $58 million in budget cuts—cuts that were ultimately restored in June 2024.
“Keeping libraries open on Sundays is one of the most meaningful ways we can serve New Yorkers- especially working families and those who count on us for free programs, internet access, books, and safe, welcoming spaces.” Linda Johnson, president and CEO of BPL, said.
“We’re deeply grateful to Mayor Eric Adams, Speaker Adrienne Adams, Finance Chair Justin Brannan, Libraries Chair Carlina Rivera, and the entire City Council for making this investment in our city’s future and affirming the essential role libraries play in our communities.”
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