Thursday, October 1, 2026
The Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library is continuing a major modernization effort with the completion of a long-awaited lighting renovation in Gold Hall and the start of several additional infrastructure and technology upgrades aimed at improving the experience for patrons of all ages.
Library officials announced that Gold Hall, the library’s main theater and event space built in 1996, reopened May 6 following a month-long closure for an extensive lighting overhaul. The project included the installation of 24 new energy-efficient LED high hats and updated wall sconces, dramatically brightening the space while reducing energy consumption.
“A library is more than its collection; it is a vital community infrastructure,” said Library Director Michelle Young. “By modernizing our physical space from the energy-efficient lighting in Gold Hall to our climate control systems, we are ensuring that HWPL remains a sustainable and state-of-the-art environment for all residents.”
Young said the project was particularly challenging because of the theater’s design, including its high ceilings and sloped flooring.
“It was a very difficult project because of the incredible height of the ceiling and the stage seating,” she said. “We had to figure out how to do it safely.”
The library worked with a specialized contractor to complete the approximately $35,000 project on the 20-foot high ceiling, which Young said has transformed the room’s appearance.
“You can actually see everything in the room now,” she said. “I feel like people haven’t really seen the room in many years because the lighting was so dim and so many fixtures were out.”
The reopening coincided with public screenings of the film “Wicked for Good” marking the first major use of the renovated space.
The lighting upgrade is one part of a broader facility improvement initiative underway at the library. Beginning May 26, the library will launch a two-month boiler replacement project to upgrade heating infrastructure throughout the building. The work will include replacing two primary boilers and installing new pumps, valves and controls to improve long-term reliability.
Additional recent upgrades include new contactless self-checkout kiosks, updated security camera systems, improved exterior book drops and paving and sidewalk enhancements to improve accessibility.
The library is also investing in new educational technology for children through a $12,000 New York State Bullet Aid grant secured by Assemblyman Ari Brown. The funding will support the addition of an interactive PLAY Touch Table in the Children’s Room, designed to encourage collaborative digital learning through hands-on activities and games.
“Libraries are incredibly important to me, both as a legislator and as a parent and grandparent,” Brown wrote in a statement. “This project gives children an opportunity to learn through hands-on interaction, technology and play in a safe and welcoming environment.”
Brown said he has prioritized distributing bullet aid equally among the five libraries in his district each year because he views libraries as critical community resources.
State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick said the project will benefit local families for years to come.
“Libraries play an important role in our communities, especially for children and families,” she said.
Young noted that many of the library’s improvements have been guided by community feedback collected through recent patron surveys, as officials continue planning future upgrades to Gold Hall’s audiovisual systems and theater equipment.
“These projects take time,” Young said. “But we’re continuing to move forward and invest in the future of the library.”
