Bridging Technology Gaps and Expanding Educational Opportunities Where Most Needed
JERSEY CITY, NJ — Mayor Steven M. Fulop joined the City Council and the Jersey City Free Public Library (JCFPL) to raise the bar for what libraries can offer the communities they serve with the grand opening of a brand new public library in Jersey City’s Bergen-Lafayette neighborhood. The new Communipaw Library Branch is set apart from traditional libraries, going well beyond what is offered to bridge gaps in access to technology and education opportunities.
Located next to the Liberty State Park Light Rail Station, the new library represents a significant investment in the community, serving as a next-generation facility focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) learning. The Communipaw Library is not just about books; it's about building skills, fostering creativity, and ensuring residents have the necessary tools to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven society.
“With the opening of this new library branch and all of the innovative tools we are making publicly accessible here, we are going well beyond what traditional libraries offer as part of our ongoing efforts to create a more equitable and connected community,” Mayor Fulop said. “Our goal is to empower residents of all ages to explore new skills and create opportunities that may not have otherwise been available.”
"As we introduce our newest library, the Communipaw Branch, we are dedicated to bridging the gap in access to technology within our community. This branch will serve as a dynamic hub for STEAM learning, equipped with a makerspace that includes a range of tools from 3D printers to a recording studio,” says Jersey City Free Public Library Director Terry B. Hill. He continues, “With these tools, Jersey City Free Public Library aims to empower individuals of all ages with the skills and resources necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital world."
As a community giveback negotiated with the developer of the new building, the city paid $1 to purchase the first floor of the five-story building located at 295 Johnston Avenue. The four floors above are residential units.
Positioned as the central hub for innovation within the JCFPL system, the Communipaw Library is equipped with cutting-edge tools and makerspace resources. Amenities include:
- Makerspace – A collaborative workspace with hands-on tools for residents to experiment and innovate, such as a heat press, Cricut machine, and other unique tools for designing and creating.
- 3-D Printer - Available to the public with an instructor assigned to assist.
- Multi-Media Recording Studio – Equipped with a complete audiovisual technology system in a soundproof room, library card holders can conveniently reserve the room.
- Podcast Room – As podcasting popularity soars, we are meeting the need for technology to help small business owners, students, and everyone in between be a part of the growing trend for news, advertising, story-telling, and all other podcasting advantages.
- Community/Conference Room - A multi-purpose, 50-seat room for community meetings and public use.
- Children’s Center - A colorful space to spark creativity with hundreds of children’s books available, a variety of engaging scheduled programming, and a unique Touch Table loaded with hundreds of educational games for children of all ages to enjoy.
In today's increasingly digital world, possessing media literacy and technological skills is essential for attaining success,” adds Business Administrator John Metro. “By providing access to cutting-edge technology and promoting lifelong learning, this new library will play a crucial role in the future success of Jersey City's residents.”
Jersey City Free Public Library Assistant Director Kate Davis says, “This branch stands apart from the rest of our branches for many reasons. It will be the STEAM hub of the Jersey City Free Public Library. We're thankful to the Mayor and the Administration for their work over the last three years to make sure that the space is thoughtful and addresses the current needs of all types of learners in the Jersey City community. The new space will offer more than just books - it will offer a makerspace, a recording studio, and an engaging children's area to support not only ‘book-learning’ but also hands-on experiences to support all types of learners in the community.”
“In addition to focusing on technology and education, we designed the new library to also serve as a gathering place for the community, offering comfortable reading areas, study rooms, and spaces for community meetings and events,” said Barkha Patel, Director of the Department of Infrastructure. “The building reflects Jersey City's commitment to sustainability, with energy-efficient features and a welcoming, modern aesthetic.”
The Communipaw Library Branch will offer a wide range of programs and workshops tailored to the community's needs, including coding classes, digital media production, 3D printing workshops, and more. These programs are designed to engage residents of all ages, from children discovering the joys of STEAM learning to adults looking to acquire new skills or explore creative hobbies.
“As the Branch Manager of our new library, I am thrilled to embark on this exciting journey with our Communipaw patrons. I am committed to ensuring that our Communipaw branch becomes a cherished space fostering curiosity and growth, where everyone feels valued, empowered, and inspired," says Communipaw Branch Manager Maisy Card.
About Jersey City Free Public Library
The Jersey City Free Public Library (JCFPL) is the largest municipal library system in the State of New Jersey, serving one of the most diverse cities in the country. The library meets the needs of the community by providing a wide array of programming and resources, as well as access to a broad range of print, digital, and audiovisual collections. The library has been a cornerstone of Jersey City’s growing and changing community for more than 120 years.
