Long Island Library Receives Historic Designation

The Long Island Library has officially been recognized as a national historic location, a notable achievement that highlights both its role in the women’s suffrage movement and a notorious arson incident. This designation comes after years of advocacy from the library’s passionate staff.

“It really is a beautiful building, and I think we all felt it deserved this recognition,” said Robin Gillun, the director of the Lynbrook Library. The library, designed by Hugh Tarrant, celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2029.

Longtime librarian Kathleen Curran reflected on her four-year journey of uncovering intriguing tidbits about the library’s history. “It was a lot of work, but worth every bit of effort,” she remarked.

This learning space has historical ties to the local women’s suffrage movement, particularly the Friday Club, which existed in 1913. The club played a vital role in promoting education and eventually helped establish prominent venues like the Brooklyn Academy of Music and the Lyceum Theatre.

Over the decades, the library has served as a community hub, especially during a time when Nassau County witnessed an influx of city residents.

In a bizarre turn of events, custodian Charles H. Sharp ignited a fire in a bid to cover up a $78 theft from the library, leading to $1.1 million in damages, as recorded by Lynbrook Fire Station archives.

As the library gained popularity, it underwent an expansion in 1992, which allowed it to remain in its original location. Speculation about its historic designation began in April when the Lynbrook Library was named a finalist for this honor, prompting nostalgia among the community.

“I made tons of calls during this process,” Giroon said. “It’s been heartwarming to connect with so many people, whether they’ve moved away or just want to reminisce about what the library meant to them.”