The Elmont Memorial Library is a cornerstone of the Elmont community just east of Queens, offering a rich history and a wide array of services to its patrons. Established in 1939, the library was the brainchild of a dedicated student, Mildred Katz, who rallied the community to create a space for learning and growth. Initially housed in a small rented store, the library has grown significantly over the decades, moving to its current, expansive location at 700 Hempstead Turnpike in 2006. The library’s mission is to inspire and engage the community by providing free and valuable resources that enrich lives through cultural and educational experiences.
It offers a diverse collection of books, e-books, audiobooks, and digital resources, along with access to live tutoring, language courses, and streaming video. The Elmont Memorial Library also hosts a variety of programs and events for all ages, including workshops, lectures, and cultural performances. More than it’s extensive collection and programs, the library is home to a Local History Collection that preserves and provides access to the history of Elmont and the surrounding communities. This collection is a valuable resource for researchers and anyone interested in the rich heritage of the area.
History of the Elmont Library
In 1939, Elmont was an established community but lacked a public library. This changed when a student named Mildred Katz wrote an editorial in the Community News, calling for volunteers to establish a library. Her plea was answered by twenty students, leading to the formation of the Elmont Library Club. With support from the PTA and faculty members of the Elmont School District, they conducted a door-to-door drive to collect books from residents and local businesses.
The first library was set up in a rented store at 593 Hempstead Turnpike for $21.50 a month. Staffed by student and teacher volunteers, the library operated during evening hours. Despite its humble beginnings, it quickly became a vital community resource. A petition signed by 500 taxpayers resulted in a $2,000 budget for the library in 1939-1940, marking the first public funds authorized for library use in the area. By 1944, plans for a new library building began to take shape. In 1945, the Elmont Memorial Library Association approved plans for a building that would include a library, trophy room, and civic hall.
The new building
The new building at 1735 Hempstead Turnpike was dedicated on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 1956. This building served the community for fifty years. In 2006, the library moved to its current location at 700 Hempstead Turnpike, on the site of the former Alva T. Stanforth Junior High School. This modern facility has allowed the library to expand its services and better serve the diverse community of Elmont, North Valley Stream, East Franklin Square, Alden Terrace, and Stewart Mano.
Services
The Elmont Memorial Library offers a wide range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of its community. Among its digital resources, patrons can access a vast collection of e-books and audiobooks through platforms like OverDrive and Hoopla. Streaming services such as Kanopy and Hoopla provide movies, TV shows, music, and more. Additionally, digital magazines are available through platforms like RBdigital, and online learning resources include language courses, live tutoring, and test preparation.
Educational programs at the library are extensive. Live tutoring is available daily from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., offering one-on-one help for students from kindergarten through college, as well as adult learners. The library hosts a variety of workshops and classes, including cooking, crafts, exercise, and special interest programs. Interactive learning resources for young children and homework help for older students are also provided. Community engagement is also a key focus of the library. It regularly hosts cultural performances, film discussions, and special events like Broadway tunes and jazz afternoons. A Veteran’s Support Group meets monthly to support veterans through fellowship and resource sharing. There are also activities tailored for older adults, such as Senior Chat, game sessions, and workshops.
Additional services include borrowing passes to local museums, available exclusively for Elmont cardholders, and access to a Local History Collection that preserves the history of Elmont and surrounding areas. Library cardholders can also enjoy discounts on performances by Plaza Theatrical at the Elmont Library Theatre. The library ensures accessibility by offering both in-person and virtual events to accommodate different preferences and needs. An animated library of talking storybooks is available for beginning readers, providing an engaging way to develop reading skills.
How to get an Elmont Card
To get an Elmont Memorial Library card you need to do the following.
- Visit the Library: Go to the Elmont Memorial Library located at 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, NY 11003.
- Bring Identification: You will need to bring two forms of identification. Acceptable forms include:
ptable forms include:- Driver’s license or motor vehicle identification card
- Current utility bill
- Rent receipt
- Tax bill
- Voter registration
- Bank statements or printed check with your name and address
- Race track badge and letter from dormitory supervisor
- An alternate official document issued by a government agency specifying your name and address
- Application Process: Fill out the application form at the library. Children’s cards are issued from birth through sixth grade, and young adult cards are issued from seventh grade through twelfth grade. Public high school students can apply themselves with school identification.
- Non-Resident Taxpayers: If you are a non-resident taxpayer, you can get a borrower’s card for one year by presenting a current school tax bill as proof of taxpaying status.
Contact
Address: 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, NY 11003
Phone: (516) 354-5280
Opening Hours:
- Monday: 9:30 am – 8:45 pm
- Tuesday: 9:30 am – 8:45 pm
- Wednesday: 10:00 am – 8:45 pm
- Thursday: 9:30 am – 8:45 pm
- Friday: 9:30 am – 5:45 pm
- Saturday: 9:30 am – 4:45 pm
- Sunday: 12:00 pm – 4:45 pm
