Lynbrook Public Library

56 Eldert Street
Lynbrook, New York 11563
Phone: 516-599-8630
Contact:
Robyn Gilloon - 516-599-8630 - [email protected]
Geolocation:

Lynbrook Public Library

About

The Lynbrook Public Library, located at 56 Eldert Street in Nassau County was designed by architect Hugh Tallant (1869-1952), and constructed by the Morgan-Coblenz Construction Corporation in 1929. The Neoclassical Revival building incorporates Beaux-Arts and Palladian elements in the grand style of civic structures of the era, recalling the classical architecture and symbolism of Greece and Rome and its connection with learning and elevation of the individual.  

The architect, who trained at École des Beaux-Arts is known for his work in theater design and acoustics. With his partner, he formed  the firm Herts and Tallant, designing several historical landmark theaters and residences in New York City. In recognition of its architectural and cultural significance the Lynbrook Public Library was placed on the New York State Register of Historic Places, March 13, 2025 and the National Register of Historic Places, August 27, 2025.

The Library is associated with significant historical contributions to the nation's history in the early twentieth century, including women's suffrage, urbanization, industrialization, the Public Library Movement, and the philosophy of the Carnegie libraries.

In 1913, a  Founders Committee of twelve Lynbrook women, including members of the Friday Club, a women's literary association, opened the Lynbrook Free Library. Many of these women  played a unique role in the suffrage movement, participating in events and holding meetings in the library. In 1916,  the Library was renamed the Lynbrook Public Library reflecting the national trend of establishing local libraries funded by and serving the community. As the community grew, the library expanded to larger quarters several times before opening at its present location. In 1992 when additional space was required, community activism was successful in preserving the 1929 building in its entirety while adding additional space.

Lynbrook Public Library is a member of the Long Island Library Resources Council.

Collections

From the cover of The Green and Gold, 1932.

Yearbooks of the graduating classes of Lynbrook High School.

The Lynbrook Public Library circa 1950.

Historic documents, borrower registers, photographs, and a scrapbook of library history.