Good read: Bigger library for Harlem

NEW YORK’s smallest library is booking it to a new location — one that’s more than four times the size of its current digs.

The 685-square-foot branch known as Macomb’s Bridge Library has been tucked inside a ground-floor corner of NYCHA’s Harlem River Houses since 1944.

But by 2019, it will be in a gleaming new home right across the street that’s roughly 3,375 square feet.

The New York Public Library executive committee approved the 20-year lease with NYCHA — which also owns the new space at 2633 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd. — Wednesday night.

The library will hire an architect to design the branch, which is going to feature computers and training classes along with books, community reading programs and story-time hours.

Even with its tiny footprint, the Macomb’s Bridge branch attracted 31,741 visits during the last fiscal year — a tight squeeze, considering it has 12 seats. By comparison, the average subway car on the 3 line that serves the area has 40.

The bigger spot could increase annual visits by as much as 40%. The goal is to provide more resources and advance NYCHA’s 10-year NextGeneration plan to help public housing communities and local residents get online.

It took nearly a decade to find the ideal location for the new branch, said New York Public Library President Tony Marx.

“The hardworking staff of Macomb’s has long made big things happen in a very small space. We can’t wait to see what they can do in the future,” he said.

The library is also going to seek community input on what types of programs and facilities to develop in the new space.

Funding for the upgrade comes in part from $2.2 million local politicians, including City Councilwoman Inez Dickens, allocated.

“I am proud to say this day has been long awaited,” Dickens, a Democrat, said of the planned 2019 move.

“The Macomb’s library will be bigger and better than ever, with more computers, smart screens and private rooms for teaching . . . . Harlem is back, Baby!”