Syosset Public Library Seeks Expansion of Services in Abandoned Woodbury School

The Syosset community will continue discussions on November 9 regarding the future of the abandoned Woodbury school building. The Syosset Public Library and the Syosset School District are proposing a joint plan to repurpose the structure for community programming and student instruction.

Christine Belling, director of the Syosset Public Library, stated that initial talks between the two organizations began nearly three years ago. The district originally explored using the building for its own purposes but exhausted those options. The current proposal involves a shared arrangement where the district retains ownership of the building and land, while the library controls the functions and programming.

The district and the library each contributed $25,000 toward a $50,000 feasibility study conducted in February. Superintendent Thomas Rogers reported at a September 14 board meeting that the study explored the cost-effectiveness of the conversion. He noted that the district would fund nearly $3.5 million toward the project. Belling explained that this amount represents money the district had set aside for remediation and restoration should the building have been demolished.

Financial considerations remain a factor in the decision process. Rogers stated at an October 13 meeting that insurance for the building would cost approximately $48,000. This figure is about $15,000 higher than the district's current insurance costs. He also estimated potential carrying costs at $32,000, noting that this amount would not be sufficient to maintain the building.

Belling described the building as more than 100 years old and noted visible signs of erosion. However, she said the interior requires work. The district's architect, H2M Architects + Engineers, determined during a summer feasibility study that the physical structure is in good condition. Belling quoted the engineers as saying the building is structurally sound, adding that it is built better than modern structures.

If the community approves the project, the library intends to expand adult and children's programming, which Belling said is in high demand. She reported that program attendance has increased by approximately 35% over the last several years. The library also plans to use the school's outdoor space for a small amphitheater and patio. Belling stated that the Woodbury School would provide an opportunity to grow programming and expand the types of services offered to the community. The library's board of trustees has not yet voted to commit funds to the project.

A date for the community vote has not yet been set. The November 9 meeting will serve as the next step in the ongoing discussion about the building's revitalization.