Sandy-Ravaged Rockaway Beach Peninsula Library Reopens To Public
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Nearly three years after Superstorm Sandy struck, there's another sign of recovery as the Rockaway Beach Peninsula Library reopened to the public with new features.
As CBS2's Alice Gainer reported, as soon as the doors reopened, residents began happily streaming in to get a look.
"I think it's great for everybody, especially the kids because we have a granddaughter and she loves coming here," said Robert Johnson, of Rockaway Beach.
Parents love the new and improved facilities with plenty to keep their kids' attention.
"Obviously, the kids are enjoying it. We look forward to spending lots of time here in the next few weeks," said Melissa Oquendo.
The library on Beach 94th Street is just two blocks from Rockaway Beach and was devastated by Sandy's floodwaters.
"We had approximately 6 feet of water that came in through this library. It was heavily damaged. It was basically inoperable," said Nick Buron, with Peninsula Community Library.
With close to $4 million in grant money, the library now has a new computer room, a teen lounge, several classrooms, and thousands of new books and videos.
One new feature is already proving popular with the public: an automated sorter that allows you to return books 24-7.
A local teacher enjoying her last day at the beach said she's thrilled about the library's return.
"I was so excited when I found out because it gives children in this neighborhood a chance to get a good book and read," said teacher Dawn Camarda.
Meanwhile, homes are being rebuilt and concrete has replaced wooden planks to create a sturdier boardwalk -- something bicyclists like Shane Murphy appreciate.
"Rockaway is a tight community. There's a lot of wonderful people here; some new, some old, and I think the community is coming back stronger than ever," Murphy said.
According to the Queens public library website, the Peninsula Community Library will be open to the public Monday through Friday.
